Introduction
If your WordPress site still says “Just another WordPress site” in the browser tab or at the top of your homepage, don’t worry—you’re not the only one. This default tagline shows up when new WordPress sites are created, and many beginners either don’t notice it or aren’t sure how to fix it.
The good news? Updating your WordPress Site Title takes less than 30 seconds, and you don’t need any coding skills at all.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you exactly how to change your WordPress website title, explain why it matters for SEO and branding, and share some extra pro tips for beginners and small business owners in the U.S.
Why Your WordPress Site Title Matters
Your Site Title is one of the most important elements of your website. Even though it may seem small, it appears in several key places that affect both visitors and search engines.
Here’s where your site title shows up:
- Browser Tabs → It’s the name visitors see when your site is open in their browser.
- Search Results → Google and Bing display your site title in search listings.
- Social Shares → When someone shares your link on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter, the site title often shows.
- Visitor Trust → A professional, branded title helps visitors instantly know what your site is about.
If you leave it as the default “Just another WordPress site”, you risk looking unprofessional and losing trust with potential customers.
How to Change Your WordPress Website Title (Step by Step)
Now let’s walk through the process.
Step 1: Log In to Your WordPress Dashboard
Go to yoursite.com/wp-admin and sign in with your username and password.
Step 2: Navigate to Settings → General
On the left-hand menu, scroll down until you see Settings. Hover over it and click General.
Step 3: Update the Site Title
You’ll see a field labeled Site Title. Simply delete the old title and type in your new website name.
👉 Example: Change from “Just another WordPress site” to “John’s Bakery – Fresh Bread in Chicago.”
Step 4: Save Changes
Scroll down and click the Save Changes button.
✅ That’s it! Your WordPress site title has now been updated everywhere.
Pro Tips for Beginners in the U.S.
Updating your site title is simple, but there are a few extra things you should keep in mind to make your website look even better.
1. Update Your Tagline Too
Right under the Site Title, there’s a Tagline field. This is where WordPress puts “Just another WordPress site” by default.
- If you’re a blogger → Use a short description of your niche. Example: “Easy Recipes for Busy Families.”
- If you’re a small business → Add your service and location. Example: “Plumbing Services in Dallas, TX.”
2. Think About SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
Google uses your site title in search results, so choose a name that includes relevant keywords.
- Instead of: “Mike’s Site”
- Try: “Mike’s Auto Repair – Best Mechanic in Houston.”
This helps potential customers in the U.S. find your business when they search online.
3. Clear Cache if You Don’t See Changes
Sometimes your browser or WordPress cache may keep showing the old title. If that happens:
- Refresh your browser (Ctrl + Shift + R on Windows or Command + Shift + R on Mac).
- Clear your WordPress caching plugin (if you’re using one like WP Rocket or W3 Total Cache).
4. Match Your Branding
Your Site Title, Logo, and Domain Name should all align. This consistency makes your website look professional and helps people remember your brand.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this is a simple process, many beginners run into small issues. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- ❌ Forgetting to update the tagline (“Just another WordPress site” still shows).
- ❌ Using only your first name (not professional for a business).
- ❌ Making the title too long (Google cuts it off after ~60 characters).
- ❌ Using all caps (hard to read).
Alternative: Changing Your Site Title in Theme Settings
Some WordPress themes (like Astra, Divi, or GeneratePress) allow you to set the site title directly in the Theme Customizer.
To do this:
- Go to Appearance → Customize.
- Select Site Identity.
- Update the Site Title and Tagline.
- Save & Publish.
This method works the same way but is sometimes easier if you’re customizing your theme.
Advanced Tip: Changing Site Title in Code (Not Recommended for Beginners)
If you prefer coding, you can manually change your site title in the functions.php file. However, this isn’t necessary for 99% of users and could break your site if done incorrectly. Stick to the dashboard method unless you’re an advanced developer.
Final Thoughts
Changing your WordPress website title may seem like a tiny step, but it’s actually one of the most important things you can do to make your site look professional and trustworthy.
Whether you’re a beginner blogger or a small business owner in the U.S., this quick 30-second fix improves your branding, SEO, and overall site presentation.
👉 Want more help? Check out my YouTube tutorial where I walk through the exact steps in under 30 seconds. Don’t forget to subscribe for more beginner-friendly WordPress tips designed for U.S. website owners.