Google Maps SEO helps local businesses appear in “near me” searches by optimizing Google Business Profiles, local keywords, reviews, and proximity signals. Strong Maps visibility drives high-intent traffic, footfall, and calls from users ready to act.

Ahrefs contributor Si Quan Ong has published an article featuring five proven strategies to rank higher in Google Maps SEO.

He says, “Nearly 90% of consumers use Google Maps, and 46% of all Google searches have local intent. If you’re not showing up in the Local Pack, you’re invisible to a massive segment of potential customers.

Local search is also (currently) the most undisrupted by Google’s AI Overviews. According to our research, only 7.9% of local searches trigger an AI Overview.

1. Perfect your Google Business Profile setup

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the foundation of your Google Maps presence. These optimizations directly impact how Google determines your relevance for local searches.

Claim and verify your listing

This seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many businesses skip this step or leave it to chance.

Google Maps SEO: 5 Proven Strategies to Rank Higher

Ahrefs