Reach A Target Audience

How Many Hashtags Should You Use on Instagram?

Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per post, but here’s the catch: Instagram itself recommends using only 3–5.  Why the disconnect?   As Instagram’s algorithm and search functionality improve, the platform is leaning into quality over quantity.   The goal is to help users better categorize their content and discourage spammy or irrelevant hashtag use.

That said, the data tells a different story.   A study analyzing over 18 million Instagram posts found that using more hashtags — specifically around 20 — leads to higher reach on average.  So, while Instagram suggests fewer, the numbers support a more generous approach.

What’s the Sweet Spot?

Aim for 20 well-chosen, hyper-relevant hashtags.  Even if you stick with 5 or 10, it’s far better than none at all.

What Types of Hashtags Should You Use?

Choosing the right mix of hashtags can make a big difference.  Consider including a variety from these five main categories:

  • Location-based hashtags — e.g., #BryanPark, #LowerEastSide
  • Branded hashtags — e.g., #WinslowRanch, ideal for events or campaigns
  • Industry hashtags — e.g., #SocialMediaManagers, #WeddingPlanners
  • Community hashtags — e.g., #VanLifeLiving, #IAmASweatyBetty
  • Descriptive hashtags — e.g., #WoodwickCandles, #SheaButterProducts

There’s no set formula for how many of each to use, but keeping this variety in mind helps you build a more strategic, well-rounded set of hashtags.

How to Find Trending Instagram Hashtags

Wondering how to discover relevant hashtags for every post? Try these three methods:

  1. Use a Hashtag Suggestion Tool
    Tools like Best-Hashtags.com can generate hashtags based on your content and suggest related ones within your niche.
  2. Research Directly on Instagram
    Search for posts in your industry and take note of what hashtags competitors are using.  Use Instagram’s search bar to explore hashtag suggestions and see what’s trending.  Look for a balance of broad and niche tags.
  3. Check Hashtag Post Volume
    On Instagram, go to the search tab and type in a hashtag (e.g., #cleanroomdesign).  Instagram will show related hashtags and how many posts each one has.

Here’s the Rule of Thumb

  • Too many posts? (e.g., 1M+) Your content might get lost.
  • Too few posts? (<500), it’s probably too obscure.
  • Best range? Aim for hashtags with 10K to 200K posts for a balance of visibility and discoverability.

This method not only helps you vet hashtags — it can also lead you to niche alternatives with better engagement potential.

Bottom Line

Use up to 20 strategic, relevant hashtags to boost reach.  Mix up your types, check post volumes, and keep testing what works best for your audience.

While Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per post, research and platform guidance suggest a more strategic approach: using around 20 highly relevant hashtags tends to deliver the best reach, even though Instagram recommends just 3–5 to avoid spammy content.  The key is prioritizing quality over quantity by choosing hashtags from a variety of types — including location-based, branded, industry-specific, community-driven, and descriptive tags.  To find the right mix, users should explore Instagram’s search tools, analyze competitors, and check hashtag post volumes, ideally targeting those with 10K to 200K posts.  A thoughtful hashtag strategy can significantly improve discoverability and engagement.