In March 2025, Google released its first core algorithm update of the year. Announced on 13th March, this broad update aimed to refine Google’s core ranking systems to better surface relevant and helpful content for searchers. Google officially confirmed the full rollout was completed on 27th March 2025, after approximately two weeks of implementation.
Coming after the December 2024 Core and Spam Updates, this latest change has once again prompted website owners and SEO professionals to analyse the impact and review their strategies.
March 2025 Core Update Highlights
Google’s official communication about the March 2025 Core Update was consistent with previous updates, emphasising the goal of improving search quality by prioritising content that users find genuinely useful and satisfying.
“They stated this is a regular update designed to better surface relevant, satisfying content for searchers from all types of sites” and that they “continue our work to surface more content from creators through a series of improvements throughout this year.”
Here are some highlights and observations from the SEO community and data providers:
- As Google stated, the rollout of this core update took approximately two weeks to complete, starting on 13th March and finishing on 27th March. This period likely saw the most significant shifts in search rankings.
- Data from providers like Semrush and RankMath indicated significant volatility in search engine results pages (SERPs) during the rollout. While some initial volatility was noted between 3r – 7th March (which Google confirmed was unrelated), the main volatility peaks occurred between 14th and 16th March, again around 20th to 22nd March, and once more on 26th March, just before the update concluded.
- While the update had a widespread impact, volatility levels varied across different sectors. Notably, the health and finance industries appeared to experience the most significant ranking fluctuations.
- Consistent with previous updates, sites relying heavily on AI-generated content, particularly those designed primarily for SEO rather than user value, are reportedly experiencing significant declines.
- This core update appears to have affected a wide range of website types, including retail, government, forums, and content publishers, suggesting a broad recalibration rather than a targeting of specific niches.
- During the rollout, third-party tracking tools reported SERP inconsistencies, suggesting artificial ranking drops for some. Those affected were advised to rely on Google Search Console data for a more accurate understanding of their site’s performance.
What Does This Mean for Your Website?
With the March 2025 Core Update now fully rolled out, it’s important to check its impact on your website. Here’s what you should consider:
- Check Search Console: Pay close attention to your website’s traffic, impressions, and keyword rankings in Google Search Console. This will provide the most reliable data on how your site has been affected.
- Check your content: Now more than ever, critically evaluate your website’s content. Is it truly high-quality, original, and providing genuine value to your target audience? Does it thoroughly address user needs and demonstrate expertise?
- Improve low-quality content: If you have a significant amount of programmatic or thin content that doesn’t genuinely serve users, consider improving it or removing it entirely.
- Improve pagespeeds and UX: As always, prioritise creating a website that offers a positive user experience, such as fast page-loading times, mobile-friendliness, and clear navigation.
The completion of the March 2025 Core Update marks another significant shift in the Google search landscape. It reinforces the importance of a user-centric approach to website creation and SEO. By focusing on quality content, a positive user experience, and staying informed about these updates, you can better navigate the ever-evolving world of search.
If you’re unsure how the March 2025 Core Update has affected your site or need assistance in developing an SEO strategy, we’re here to help. Whether it’s a content audit, technical SEO improvements, or a comprehensive SEO plan, our team can provide the expertise you need to get back on track.
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References from Google:
Google Search Status – Rankings Updates
Google Search Central Blog for announcements
Google’s Search Quality Rater Guidelines
