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Did you know that 46% of all Google searches are local?
That’s right — almost half of the people using Google are looking for businesses and services near them, making local SEO an indispensable tool for businesses in 2024.
To help you further understand the importance of local SEO, we have rounded up the best local SEO statistics from reliable sources. Check out these facts to see why local SEO can be a game-changer for your business.
1. More than 9 out of 10 people learn about local businesses on Google (Source)
With almost everyone using Google to find local businesses, it’s clear why your business needs to be there. If potential customers can’t find you, they’ll find someone else. Being on Google helps ensure you’re not losing out to competitors.
2. 28% of people conducting a local search will purchase from the business within 24 hours (Source)
This indicates that almost a third of people searching for local businesses are ready-to-buy customers. All you need to make sure that they show up at your business’s door and not that of your competitor’s is to be present online.
3. 60% of smartphone users contact a business directly from local search results. (Source)
When people search for local businesses, they often have an immediate need. For instance, someone searching for \”pizza delivery near me\” is likely to order within the next few hours. Optimizing your business for local SEO ensures you appear in these searches and capture these urgent customers.
4. 60% of customers will ignore a business that lacks a web presence. (Source)
The above statistic indicates what every shrewd business owner already knows — if customers cannot find you online, they will assume that either you aren’t legitimate or your business isn’t keeping up with the times. Neither belief will convince them to do business with you.
5. Google deals with over 1.5 billion “near me” searches every month. (Source)
Many “near me” searches are driven by immediate needs, such as finding a nearby restaurant or a local plumber. Businesses that optimize for local search can capture these urgent customers and provide them with the services they need quickly.
6. 58% of consumers questioned for a survey stated that they use voice search to find a local business. (Source)
Despite the fact that voice search is booming, many businesses are unaware of its true potential. As such, if your business is optimized for voice search, you are more likely to attract customers who aren’t likely targeted by your competitors.
7. 61% of shoppers prefer going to local businesses that have both physical presence and online websites. (Source)
Customers want the convenience of being able to find and interact with a business both online and in person. By having both a physical presence and an online website, businesses can provide this convenience and attract more customers.
8. Businesses which reply to local reviews can expect up to 12% additional reviews. (Source)
When it comes to local SEO, responding to customer reviews is crucial. Businesses that engage with their customers through reviews can expect a significant increase in the number of reviews they receive, resulting in added business.
9. 78% of local mobile searches result in an online purchase. (Source)
With such a significant percentage of local mobile searches leading to purchases, businesses must ensure they are easily discoverable and accessible through mobile search to capitalize on these immediate needs.
10. 97% of people learn more about a local company from the internet than from anywhere else. (Source)
This shouldn’t be surprising. Unless your business is really popular, a significant number of the people in your area may have never heard about it, making Google’s My Business Profile (GMBP) their only option to get information about your business.
11. Only 35% of businesses feel local SEO is important. (Source)
This statistic underscores a significant opportunity for businesses who recognize the value of local SEO. With fewer competitors focusing on local SEO, you have a better chance to capture the attention of potential customers in your area.
12. 56% of local businesses are yet to claim their Google Business Profile. (Source)
Google Business Profile is often the first point of contact potential customers have with a business when they search online. An unclaimed profile can result in incorrect information being displayed, which can deter customers and harm the business’s credibility.
13. Customers are 70% more likely to visit and 50% more likely to consider purchasing from businesses with a complete Business Profile. (Source)
A complete Google My Business Profile (GMBP) doesn’t just make it easy for people to contact your business. It also provides them with all the information they need to decide whether they should prefer your services over your competitors’. It is thus recommended that you take your time and optimize your GMBP.
14. Four out of every 10 local SEO campaigns achieve a 500% or more ROI. (Source)
Achieving a 500% ROI means that for every dollar spent on local SEO, businesses can expect to earn five dollars in return. This high return rate indicates that local SEO is not just a cost but a profitable investment that can significantly enhance a company’s revenue.
15. 49% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. (Source)
To get good online reviews, focus on a few key areas. First, provide excellent service to ensure your customers are happy with what you offer. Next, actively ask satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and make the process easy by providing clear links or instructions on how to do so. Finally, it’s respond to reviews by thanking those who leave positive feedback and addressing any negative comments professionally.
16. When choosing between two products with similar ratings, consumers are more likely to buy the one with more reviews. (Source)
Consumers seek validation from others when making decisions, and a higher number of reviews can provide a stronger sense of social proof. The idea that many others have purchased and reviewed the product suggests it’s a popular choice, which can reduce the perceived risk of the purchase.
Conclusion
Want to take your local SEO game to the next level? Keep Writing can help. Our team of local SEO experts can assist you in optimizing your online presence, generating more reviews, and effectively managing your reputation to attract and convert more local customers.
