5 Ways To Rank Higher on Google Maps in 2025

In 2025, Google Maps SEO is more critical than ever. With mobile-first searches and local queries soaring, knowing how to rank higher on Google Maps can directly boost your traffic, footfall, and sales.

Let’s break down 5 powerful ways to improve your Google Maps ranking and transform your business.

Why Is It Important To Rank Higher in Google Maps?

Ranking on Google Maps works much like ranking in organic search. Google uses signals like relevance, distance, and prominence to decide which businesses appear at the top.

But here’s the kicker: People trust Google Maps when choosing where to shop, eat, or visit. Ranking higher matters because:

• Over 78% of local searches convert into purchases.
• Customers trust businesses that appear at the top.
• Visibility on Google Maps means more foot traffic, calls, and website visits.
• Being easy to find impacts your reputation and revenue.

In short, better Google Maps SEO = better business outcomes.

1. Optimise Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile is the heart of your Google Maps presence. Keep it updated and fully completed. Here’s what you should focus on:

Claim and Verify Your Listing

This step not only gives you control over the information but also adds credibility. Verification can be done by postcard, phone, or email, depending on Google’s options for your business.

Accurate NAP Information

Your Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) must be consistent across all online platforms.

Business Hours

Keep your hours of operation up-to-date, especially on holidays. This avoids customer frustration and missed business opportunities.

Detailed Descriptions and Keywords

Craft a compelling business description, utilising local and service-specific keywords strategically to enhance Google Maps SEO.

Pro tip: Select the most relevant categories. Google uses these to match searches with your business.

2. Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews

Reviews are one of the main ranking signals for Google Maps. A consistent stream of positive, genuine feedback signals trust to both Google and potential customers.

How to get and handle reviews:

• Ask happy customers directly after a purchase
• Make it easy to leave reviews (QR codes, direct links, email signatures)
• Reply to every review, whether positive or negative
• Address negative feedback calmly and professionally

Besides strengthening your reputation, responding to reviews helps you show off your customer service, even in tricky situations.

3. Leverage Local Keywords & Build Citations

To rank higher on Google Maps, you must use the terms your audience is searching for. Research and use local keywords in your profile, like “best Italian restaurant in [Your City]” or “emergency plumber near me.”

Research Local Keywords

Use keyword research tools to identify what potential customers in your area are searching for. Keywords like “best sushi in [City]” or “emergency plumbing services near me” can boost local visibility.

Optimise Descriptions and Content

Sprinkle these localised keywords naturally within your business description, services, and Google posts, ensuring content remains genuine and helpful.

Citations

A Key to Consistency: Ensure your business is listed on local directories and relevant platforms. These citations must display consistent NAP details to build authority in the eyes of search engines.

4. Enhance Location Authority with Quality Backlinks

Backlinks are like votes of confidence for your site, and they matter for Google Maps ranking too. The more credible, local websites mention or link to you, the stronger your authority.

How to get local backlinks:

• Partner with nearby businesses for events or collaborations
• Sponsor community projects or local charities
• Get featured in local news or blogs
• Submit your website to trusted local directories

Every quality backlink helps tell Google that your business is valuable to the community.

5. Utilise Advanced Google Maps Features for 2025

Google keeps adding new features—stay ahead by using them. In 2025, these can make a big difference for your visibility:

Virtual Tours and 360-Degree Photos

Offering virtual insights into your business helps potential customers better visualise the experience, captivating their interest.

Regular Updates and Post

Frequently post updates, offers, and events on your profile. Having a comprehensive content strategy not only attracts new customers but also retains existing ones.

Engage with Google Q&A

Provide valuable answers to potential queries and continue the conversation to maintain customer interest.

Structured Data and Schema

Implement schema markup on your website to help Google understand your business better. This technical detail can improve your overall results in SEO, including Maps.

Don’t forget to add structured data (schema) to your website. This little bit of code helps Google understand your business and improves your Maps listing.

Cracking the code to Google Maps SEO is all about details and consistency. These strategies aren’t just tricks; they’re proven, sustainable ways to boost your Google Maps ranking in 2025. 

Start now, monitor your progress, and watch local customers roll in!