If there is any constant in ranking factors for local SEO, it’s that Google, Bing and all the search engines will always have changes. While SEO best practices like monitoring reviews and keeping accurate citations with trusted listings management services will never go out of style, this is tech, so priorities will shift when new apps, integrations and advances emerge. It’s the mid 2020s, so let’s review what’s changed in local search so you can keep your technology and your clients up-to-date.
The Ranking Factors That Influence Local SEO
We usually receive annual updates to local SEO ranking factors in a report once due diligence, testing and professional surveys are completed. However, this information is based on data originally published in 2023, and minimally updated in late 2024 on the Moz blog.
Google Business Profile
The importance of a correctly managed Google Business Profile (GBP) cannot be overstated in local search results. While these verified business listings contain multiple pieces of information about the business, the three most important are as follows: choosing the most authoritative web page from a website for the main URL on the listing; selecting the most relevant categories (up to 10) for the business; and if possible, including a search term within the business title.
We often talk about how vital a verified and well-managed GBP is, and will continue to provide tips to give our agency partners the edge in local search.
Reviews
Reviews across multiple platforms and from various sources continue to impact Local Pack/Finder rankings. Reviews are a valuable trust signal and will always matter to consumers and search engines alike—staying on top of them is vital to a business’ online success.
Visit Advice Local to [read more].
