The Only Hashtag List You’ll Need for Instagram in 2025
Hashtags are still a powerful tool for boosting your Instagram reach in 2025 — when used the right way.
But here’s the catch: How many should you use? Which types actually work? What’s trending this year? And where’s the best place to put them — in the caption or the comments?
We’ve got you covered. This complete guide breaks it all down, so you can use hashtags with confidence and get your posts seen by the right people.
What Are Hashtags, Really
A hashtag is just a word or short phrase with a # in front — but on Instagram, it’s so much more. It’s how your content gets discovered.
Hashtags act like labels: they help organize your post into topics that users can search for or follow. Want to be part of a trending conversation or show up in Explore results? Hashtags are your gateway.
To add one, just type # followed by your keyword — no spaces, no special characters — in your caption or comment.
How Do Instagram Hashtags Actually Work?
Think of hashtags as Instagram’s filing system. When you use them, you’re telling the algorithm what your content is about — and who might be interested in it.
Hashtags help your post appear on the Explore page and in search results for people browsing that topic. In short: use the right hashtags, and Instagram knows who to show your content to.
Why Hashtags Still Matter in 2025
Hashtags do more than just make your posts look trendy — they actually help Instagram understand your content. The algorithm uses hashtags to sort and recommend posts to users who are likely to find them relevant.
So, are hashtags still worth your time? Absolutely.
There’s been debate — especially after Instagram suggested using just 3–5 per post — but the truth is: well-chosen hashtags (and keywords!) are still one of the best tools for expanding your reach.
Without a smart hashtag strategy, you’re potentially missing out on visibility, engagement, and even followers.
The Benefits of Using Hashtags on Instagram
Here are three key reasons you should be using hashtags on your posts and Reels:
1. Get Discovered More Easily
Hashtags make your content searchable. They tell both users and Instagram’s algorithm what your post is about.
Using a balanced mix of broad, trending hashtags and niche-specific ones helps you reach the right audience.
2. Boost Engagement and Build Connections
Hashtags don’t just bring views — they help bring the right views.
Tagging your content ensures it lands in front of people who care about that topic. For example, using #SocialMediaTips attracts creators, marketers, and small business owners — exactly the kind of users you want.
3. Use Branded Hashtags & Collect Content From Your Audience
Want to make it easier for your fans to find your content — or even help you create it? Branded hashtags are the way to go. They give your followers a direct way to engage with your brand and tag you in relevant posts.
Branded hashtags also help with one of the most underrated growth tactics: user-generated content.
Once you identify the hashtags that bring in views and land you on the Explore page, you can track them to discover posts from your followers — and repost them (with credit, of course). It’s authentic, effective, and saves time on content creation.
50 Most Popular Hashtags on Instagram Right Now
If you're not sure where to begin with hashtags, here’s a cheat sheet — a list of the 50 most-used Instagram hashtags between July 1, 2024 and January 1, 2025:
#interiordesign
#design
#love
#fashion
#homedecor
#inspiration
#realestate
#shoplocal
#style
#foodie
#art
#travel
#smallbusiness
#photography
#home
#wellness
#selfcare
#linkinbio
#architecture
#instagood
#food
#luxury
#beauty
#health
#skincare
#interior
#lifestyle
#shopsmall
#ootd
#handmade
#motivation
#interiors
#nature
#homedesign
#mentalhealth
#selflove
#fitness
#supportlocal
#wedding
#weddinginspiration
#mindset
#instafood
#community
#business
#weddinginspo
#photooftheday
#beautiful
#decor
#explore
#dreamhome
How Many Hashtags Should You Really Use on Instagram?
Instagram gives you space for up to 30 hashtags per post — but how many should you actually use?
Interestingly, while the platform officially recommends using just 3 to 5 hashtags to avoid clutter and improve categorization for SEO and the Explore page, real-world data tells a different story.
Research shows that posts with around 20 hashtags consistently have the highest average reach.
So what’s the takeaway? Aim for 20, but focus on quality. Using 10 well-targeted hashtags is still way better than none at all.
Types of Instagram Hashtags to Know
Before adding hashtags to your post, it's smart to understand the different types you can use. A balanced mix helps you reach broader and more relevant audiences.
Here are five key categories:
Location-based hashtags – Great for local exposure (e.g., #NYCFitness or #BerlinCoffee)
Branded hashtags – Unique to your business or campaigns (e.g., #TopFollowTips)
Industry hashtags – Related to your niche (e.g., #ContentCreators or #FitnessTrainers)
Community hashtags – Bring like-minded users together (e.g., #MomsWhoLift or #DigitalNomads)
Descriptive hashtags – Simply describe the content (e.g., #VeganSnacks or #CozyDecor)
You don’t need a fixed number from each category — just aim for relevance and variety.
How to Find the Right Hashtags for Your Posts
1. Research Using Instagram Explore Page
Search your main topic on the Explore tab and see which posts perform well. Take note of what hashtags they’re using — they likely help trigger the algorithm.
2. Check Hashtag Volume
Not all hashtags are created equal. If one has 50M+ posts, your content might get lost. If it only has 200 posts, no one’s looking. Aim for the sweet spot: 10K to 200K uses.
Use Instagram’s built-in tag search to explore hashtag volume and discover better niche alternatives.
3. Build Reusable Hashtag Sets
Save time by creating lists of hashtags based on your content themes. For example, you might have one set for tips, one for lifestyle, and one for Reels. Then just mix and match as needed.
Where Should You Place Hashtags — Caption or Comments?
Instagram confirms that hashtags work in both captions and comments. The difference comes down to personal preference and timing.
If you add hashtags in the comments manually, do it immediately after posting. Want a cleaner look? Place hashtags in the first comment.
Using scheduling tools like topfollow.app’s planner (coming soon) can help you automate this — so you never forget to post the first comment right on time.
Hashtags and Engagement: Do They Really Help?
Absolutely. The right hashtags increase your post’s chances of being discovered by new users, which naturally boosts likes, saves, and comments.
Take, for example, brands that use both trending and branded hashtags: one attracts search traffic, the other builds a sense of community. That combination often leads to stronger engagement.
Save Time with a Hashtag Workflow
Finding 20–30 hashtags for each post can be a headache. Instead, create ready-to-go collections of hashtags based on your main topics.
Having go-to sets for product posts, educational tips, or personal updates will save tons of time. Just tweak a few words — and you’re good to go.
Track and Optimize Your Hashtag Strategy
A strong hashtag strategy doesn’t stop at posting — you need to measure what’s working. Keep track of which hashtags bring in the most reach, saves, or profile visits.
If you’re using tools like Instagram Insights or third-party analytics, monitor which tags are driving results. Replace underperforming hashtags over time and double down on those bringing engagement.
Hashtags are still one of the most effective free tools for growing your audience on Instagram in 2025. Whether you use 5 or 25, make them count — and stay consistent with how you apply them in your content plan.