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Content Strategy

Topic Clusters for Local SEO: A Practical Approach

A practical approach to topic clusters for local SEO.

CBConsoleBoard Editorial Team📅 Published October 1, 2026⏱ 8 min read

A topic cluster is a cornerstone page that comprehensively covers a subject, surrounded by supporting articles that cover subtopics and link back. This signals topical authority and helps readers find related content. This guide covers the practical approach for local SEO. See Local Content Strategy for the strategic context.

Cluster structure

A cluster has three parts: a cornerstone page (the comprehensive reference), supporting articles (subtopics in depth), and internal links (supporting articles link to the cornerstone and to each other).

ComponentPurposeExample
CornerstoneComprehensive referenceThe Local SEO Operating System
Supporting articleSubtopic in depthLocal SEO Launch Checklist
Internal linksConnect the clusterSupporting → cornerstone, sibling → sibling

Building a cluster

  1. Choose a broad topic relevant to your audience (e.g., 'local SEO').
  2. Write the cornerstone — the most comprehensive page on the topic.
  3. Identify subtopics that each deserve their own page.
  4. Write supporting articles, each targeting a specific subtopic and intent.
  5. Link each supporting article to the cornerstone and to related siblings.
  6. Link the cornerstone to each supporting article.

Primary sources