Creating a website that looks good is no longer enough. Businesses must also ensure their websites are inclusive and accessible to all users. At CliqAlly, we believe accessibility and SEO work hand in hand. An accessible website not only supports people with disabilities but also strengthens your search engine visibility and helps you connect with a broader audience.
Let’s explore how accessibility can improve your SEO and expand your reach online.
Better Structure = Better Crawlability
Search engines like Google rely on clear, semantic HTML to understand the content of a webpage. Many accessibility best practices—like using proper heading levels (<h1> to <h6>), descriptive alt text, and meaningful link text—also help search engines crawl and index your content more accurately.
Example:
Instead of using vague link text like “click here,” accessible websites use descriptive links like “Download our free web accessibility checklist.” This tells both users and search engines what the page is about.
If you’re new to the concept of accessibility, you may want to start with our previous post, Understanding Web Accessibility Standards: Why They Matter and What You Need to Know, which explains the foundational guidelines that support everything we cover in this article.
Alt Text Improves Image Indexing
Alternative (alt) text is a key accessibility feature for users who rely on screen readers. But it also plays an important role in SEO.
Alt text helps search engines understand what an image represents. This boosts your chances of appearing in Google Image Search and strengthens the relevance of your content overall.
Bonus Tip:
Use specific, keyword-relevant descriptions without keyword stuffing.
For example:
Bad Alt Text: “image1.png“
Good Alt Text: “Screenshot of ADA-compliant website with high color contrast“
Mobile-Friendly = Accessible-Friendly
Many accessibility features align closely with mobile optimization. For example, using flexible layouts allows content to adapt smoothly across screen sizes, while large tap targets and resizable text improve navigation for users on both mobile devices and assistive technologies.
These elements not only support individuals with disabilities but also create a better mobile experience for everyone.
Since Google prioritizes mobile-first indexing, websites that function well on mobile devices tend to rank higher in search results. By designing with accessibility in mind, you naturally enhance mobile usability, which directly contributes to better SEO performance.
Faster Load Times, Lower Bounce Rates
Web accessibility encourages efficient coding practices and optimized media. This leads to faster-loading websites, which both users and search engines love.
When users can quickly find and access the content they need—especially those using assistive technology—they’re more likely to stay longer. This reduces bounce rates and increases session durations, two signals that Google pays attention to.
Accessibility Expands Your Reach
According to the World Health Organization, over 1 billion people worldwide live with some form of disability. In the U.S. alone, that’s about 26% of adults. If your site isn’t accessible, you’re potentially excluding millions of users who could become loyal customers.
By embracing accessibility, you:
Reach a broader and more diverse audience
Show your brand values inclusivity
Create a more usable experience for everyone, including older users, mobile users, and people with temporary impairments (like a broken arm or eye strain)
Compliance Protects You, and Builds Trust
Inaccessible websites in the U.S. are increasingly facing lawsuits under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). By making your website accessible, you:
Reduce legal risks
Build trust with users
Gain a competitive edge as a socially responsible business
And trust—both from users and search engines—translates to better rankings and more conversions.
Accessibility is not simply viewed as a checkbox; it is recognized as a powerful tool for SEO and business growth.
At CliqAlly, accessible websites are built for U.S.-based businesses to ensure strong search engine performance and broader audience reach.
Need help with your next website project? Get in touch with us and let’s make your site work for everyone.