An SEO Basic

[espmartin]

A keyword density of about 2% to 4% is a great percentage for your on-page
optimization. And I'd like to remind you all that the keywords we use within
the ALT tags for our images are counted as part of that overall density.

So, to optimize both the accessibility of your images and help on-page SEO,
think about using your long tails instead of your direct "title tag" keywords.

[cooldude007]

I have read that keyword density now are ignored that's why I just focus on my anchor text usage to my keyword varying it making it natural link building and link building of IBLs...

[espmartin]

While it is not a baseline for onpage SEO anymore, I wouldn't go over 4% density, or
you'll find yourself with a keyword spamming filter applied.

[BenjArriola]

I agree with you espmartin based on my own experience.

When my keyword density goes beyond 5%, ranking goes down, but I noticed what is affected most are my MSN/Live ranking and Google is not affected that much by the high keyword densities.

Are you experiencing the same thing espmartin?

[espmartin]

Yes. However, I really feel that Google takes into consideration the "use and flow" of
words. If you ever run a keyword density check on a blog, you'll see that percentage go
up without ill effect.

But I wouldn't do such on purpose!