How to Boost Your Google Maps Ranking in 2025?

Why Google Maps Rankings Matter More Than Ever?

If you're a local business, Google Maps--and your Google Business Profile--should be a top focus for growing in 2025.

Over 86% of people use Google Maps to find local services, and that number keeps rising. That’s because most people looking for a plumber, a dentist, or a coffee shop--they aren’t scrolling through blog posts.

They are using Google Maps.

Even when people use traditional Google search, the map pack gets top billing. Search almost any local service and you’ll see it--three businesses listed in a visual box, complete with reviews, hours, and contact info.

That’s the map pack.

Local search is different from traditional search. It’s bottom of funnel. It’s customers looking to solve a problem that requires a local expert.

And even as AI takes over more search traffic, local results stay strong. Why? Because AI can’t replace real-world services. When someone needs a tree removed or a drain unclogged, they need someone to show up.

Let’s break down how to rank in Google Maps--and what it takes to win.

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

If you want to rank in the Google Map Pack, your first step is to optimize. 

Google doesn’t want to guess. If Google isn’t sure you offer a product or service, they will prioritize competitors who showcase this information. 

But if you give Google clarity, they will reward you.

As the operator of a Boise SEO agency, I have seen local businesses get a major boost by simply filling out their profile correctly. 

So it’s worth taking the time to do this right. 

Here’s what you need to get right:

• Business Name--Use your real business name here. And if you can make some legal adjustments to add some natural looking keywords to your name, that helps too.

• Primary Category--This is critical. Pick the right one. It’s one of the strongest relevance signals Google uses for ranking. If you don’t know what to pick, look at your competitors.

• Secondary Categories--Use these to cover additional services you offer. If you're a roofer who also installs gutters, include both. This will broaden the searches you are likely to show up for.

• Business Description--Make it simple and clear. Mention your services, the locations you serve, and what makes you different.

• Service Areas--Add every city or county you serve. This is especially important for service-area businesses, but every business can benefit from giving Google more information.

• Website Link--Let Google know where to send customers looking for more information about your products or services.

• Business Hours--Keep them accurate and up to date. Keep in mind, Google is less likely to show your business when you are closed. So consider extending your listed hours to reflect when someone is actively answering phones. 

• Profile Attributes--These include things like “veteran-owned” or “wheelchair accessible.” Fill out everything that applies.

A fully optimized profile gives Google all the context it needs to rank you for the right searches. It’s definitely worth your time to get this right, and update it annually or when your business information changes.

2. Nail Your NAP Consistency

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone Number. Sounds basic, but it’s a foundational factor for ranking on Google Maps--and one of the easiest to get wrong.

Here’s the deal: Google needs to see the same core business info across the web. If your website says one thing, Yelp says another, and YellowPages lists something different, Google is going to be confused. 

And when Google is confused, it stops trusting your data--which means a drop in ranking potential.

Inconsistent NAP data can actively harm your visibility in local search.

Here’s what to focus on:

• Your Business Name--Use the exact same name format everywhere. If you’re “Smith Roofing LLC” on Google, don’t show up as “Smith Roofing Services” on Facebook.

• Your Address--Try to use the same formatting and same punctuation. Also, avoid PO boxes. If you’re Suite 101, keep it consistent. Google isn’t dumb, but don’t test it.

• Your Phone Number--This has become less important, but still good to keep tabs on. If you are using tracking numbers, there are going to be some differences across the web. Google knows this. Just make sure you have working numbers that call your business when dialed. 

• Your Website--Although not part of the traditional NAP, your website should also match up to your local citations. Just another way to show Google you’re on top of it, and help potential customers find your website when they need it.

You want consistency across your entire citation profile--from big sites like Yelp and Facebook down to smaller directories and map aggregators. If you move locations or rebrand, make sure to update your listings to make the transition smoother.

3. Reviews: The All Important Metric

If there’s one thing that moves the needle more than anything else in Google Maps rankings, it’s reviews.

We’re talking review volume, velocity, and relevance. Together, they tell Google that people trust your business, it’s active, and it solves local problems.

Google reviews have a direct impact on SEO visibility, affecting both Google Maps and organic rankings.

And I’ve seen it firsthand--businesses with clunky websites and unoptimized profiles still ranking well from solid reviews.

If you want to rank, nothing beats having a solid review strategy.

Google Reviews and Key Ranking Factors

Here’s what actually helps you win with reviews:

• Review Volume--The more reviews, the better. Not only does this help you rank, it helps customers trust you. One study showed that businesses with 200+ reviews average twice the revenue compared with lower review competitors. 

• Review Velocity--A steady stream of new reviews signals to Google that you’re active and relevant. Review velocity is simply how many reviews you are currently averaging per month. A review from this week beats a glowing review from 2019. 

• Keywords in Reviews--When customers mention specific services and cities (e.g. “gutter cleaning in Boise”), it strengthens your relevance. This helps boost your results for those searches in the future.

• Response Rate--While not a confirmed ranking factor, fast review responses contribute to trust and engagement. Even a simple “Thanks for your feedback!” goes a long way in showing you’re engaged. That means responding to negative reviews as well.

• Ratings Quality--Yes, 5-star reviews matter. But a mix of honest feedback builds more trust than a wall of perfect 5s. Even the occasional negative review, if handled professionally, can boost your credibility and show that you care about customers.

The bottom line is this: If you want to rank higher in Google Maps, you need reviews. Build systems in your business, or make it easy and integrate automations into your CRM.

Either way, make it a goal to get reviews consistently and you’ll see major improvements to your Google Map rankings. 

4. Add Photos, Videos, and Visuals

Images aren’t just for show. Regularly uploading photos can help with customer engagement and keep your Google Business Profile (GBP) up to date.

Here are some photo ideas to keep things fresh:

• Job Site Photos--Show your work. Before-and-after shots. Real jobs. Real customers. This builds trust and relevance.

• Team Photos--People want to see the humans behind the brand. It also helps build credibility and recognition.

• Office or Location Shots--Especially helpful for brick-and-mortar businesses. It shows you’re legit and gives context to map users.

• Service Photos--Highlight specific services visually. If you do roof repairs, show roof repairs.

• Short Videos--Google autoplays videos on certain devices, and it definitely draws attention. Profiles with videos get more views, which also drives more calls and clicks.

Optimization Tips

• Use descriptive file names and captions--Instead of IMG_4935.jpg, use metal-roof-installation-meridian-idaho.jpg.

• Mention the city--Whether it’s in the image title or description, tie your visuals to local relevance.

• Include the services--Along with the city, include the services performed in the title as well to help give Google even more information about the image. 

• Upload regularly--Fresh photos keep your listing active. We recommend weekly or biweekly uploads as part of your local SEO routine.

• Focus on the cover photo--Your cover photo shows up prominently and can be a big driver of conversions. Make sure it’s sharp, clear, and reflects the kind of business you want people to see.

Google is still visual. And while photos won’t magically shoot you to the top, they have a clear effect on important metrics--especially relevance and engagement.

5. Post Regular Updates, Events, and Specials

Most local businesses aren’t using Google Business Profile updates at all--and that’s a mistake.

Updates give Google signals that your business is active, engaged, and still serving the community. It’s also one of the only tools you control directly inside your GBP that can show up immediately on your profile.

You’re not just updating for Google. You’re also showing potential customers updates, events, and special offers that may be relevant to what they are looking for right now.

Regular GBP updates can have a dramatic effect on engagement--and that leads to more clicks, more calls, and more positive signals that boost rankings.

Here’s what to post, and how to do it in a way that actually works:

What to Post

• Updates--Quick service reminders, behind-the-scenes stories, hiring announcements, or answers to FAQs. If you’ve got something happening in your business, post it.

• Offers--Discounts, bundles, or seasonal specials. Google lets you add start and end dates, which shows urgency and can increase clicks.

• Events--Hosting a customer appreciation BBQ? Doing a booth at a local fair? Post it as an event. These events can also show up in local search results.

• New Services--Added a new service or product line? Let people (and Google) know.

• Customer Wins--Highlight real jobs and customer success stories. These posts can double as soft reviews and social proof.

Update Tips

• Use photos--Even a basic photo makes your update stand out more in your listing.

• Include a CTA--Encourage users to call, book, or learn more.

• Add keywords naturally--Mention the service and city if it fits: “Just finished a patio install in Nampa. Here’s how it turned out.”

• Post weekly--Google suggests one post per week. For those who want stronger momentum, posting two or more times per week will make sure there is always fresh content on the profile.

Most businesses treat Google like a static listing. Treat it like a social feed, and you'll turn visibility into conversions.

6. Add Products and Services to Your Profile

Most businesses overlook the “Products and Services” section on their Google Business Profile.

But that’s a missed opportunity.

This section helps by offering you a place to showcase what you do, as well as giving you space to add long-tail and more niche services. 

For instance, a plumber may offer “Sewer Line Camera Inspection” as a service. If your business includes this and your competitors don’t, you’re more likely to show up when someone is looking for this specific service.

Adding services will help your business show up for more keywords. And more keywords means more customer potential. 

Here’s how to do it right:

For service-based businesses:

• Add every primary service you offer (e.g., Roof Replacement, Tree Removal, Drain Cleaning)

• Then add more specific or supporting services under each one (e.g., Tarping, Stump Grinding, Hydro Jetting)

• Include a short but clear description for each service

• Be thorough

For product-based businesses:

• List each product type you offer. Add pricing if possible.

• Use simple product names and brief, useful descriptions.

• You can also add images to product listings--a great way to improve visibility.

If someone searches “landscaping design in Eagle, Idaho,” Google won’t guess. If you haven’t told them clearly that you offer this service, chances are, they will showcase someone else.

7. Build Backlinks (After Everything Else)

Backlinks are often the holy grail of SEO--and yes, they absolutely matter for local SEO too. 

But here’s the catch: If your Google Business Profile is weak, your NAP is inconsistent, and your reviews are thin, backlinks are unlikely to make up for these issues.

For Google Map rankings, backlinks are a multiplier--not a foundation.

Once your on-page and profile-based signals are dialed in, backlinks can be the difference-maker that pushes you into the top 3 map results--especially in competitive markets.

Why Backlinks Help Google Maps Rankings

Here are a few ways backlinks can help your business rank:

• Relevance and Authority: Backlinks help Google understand which businesses are trusted sources of information in an area or industry.

• Domain Strength Impacts Map Rankings: Your website and Google Business Profile are linked. So when your website becomes more authoritative through backlinks, your GBP can benefit.

• Entity Building: Backlinks from trusted, niche, or hyperlocal sites reinforce to Google that your business is a real, established entity in your region.

Not only can backlinks help rankings, local backlinks have been shown to help boost your local rankings even further.

What Kinds of Backlinks Actually Help?

Not all backlinks are equal. In local SEO, prioritize:

• Hyperlocal Links: Get links from local business directories, chambers of commerce, city blogs, or sponsorships (like youth sports leagues or charity events in your town).

• Niche-Relevant Links: If you’re a roofer, a backlink from a roofing supplier, manufacturer, or industry association has weight.

• High Authority: If a backlink isn’t local, but it has high authority, this can still have a dramatic impact on your rankings. 

When Should You Start Prioritizing Backlinks?

Backlinks are effective, but you will likely see more impact and quicker wins from doing these first:

• Fully optimizing your GBP

• NAP data is locked in across the web

• You’re getting consistent reviews

• You’re posting updates and uploading media regularly

• Your products/services sections are thorough and updated

Once those are done, then backlinks become the separating factor. 

If you’re stuck at spot #4 or #5 in the maps pack, a strategic push for backlinks can often be the push you need to get into the top 3.

8. Stay Updated and Track Results

Google doesn’t stand still--and neither should your local SEO strategy. So many SEO factors are about staying up-to-date, and lose value quickly.

That’s because Google wants to send customers to businesses that are active, operating, and ready to help customers. 

Imagine you stopped answering your personal phone. How long before people stop calling?

Google thinks the same way. If you haven’t shown any activity for a few months, Google will begin prioritizing active competitors. 

Also, Google is constantly making updates to improve the process for users. Staying on top of category changes, new tools, etc. can give you an edge over your competitors. 

The best way to do this is by setting a pace. Create weekly and monthly goals, then execute. 

Update Schedule

Here are some things you can do to stay updated:

• Annual or bi-annual profile review

• Weekly posts 

• Create a schedule for images

• Reply to reviews daily

• Monthly product/services review

• Regular backlink acquisition

This may seem overwhelming, but there are many tools that can help simplify this process through automation. 

These same tools also offer tracking, so you can see your progress and make sure you’re heading in the right direction.

Tracking Results

When it comes to ranking on Google Maps--every industry, niche, and location is unique. 

All of these efforts are wasted if you aren’t tracking progress and results.

Here are a few tools that will help:

• Google Business Profile Insights--Your GBP offers insights and data you won’t find anywhere else. The number of calls, website visits, direction requests, and views your profile is getting can help monitor performance--and is invaluable for those looking to grow.

• Google Search Console--Although not directly related to Google Maps, Google Search Console (GSC) for your website can help you find key searches customers use to find you. Use this data to add more content, or expand your products/services on your GBP, to capture more high-value traffic.

• Local Rank Tracking Tools--Tools like Local Falcon, BrightLocal, or Local Viking allow you to track your rankings across specific zip codes or locations. They also can assist you with scheduling posts, replying to reviews, and keeping track of backlinks and citations.

Without tracking, you can’t know what’s working. 

Create a schedule for keeping your business profile updated, and track your progress. 

Then make adjustments. Big growth takes time, but even small wins can have a sizable impact on your business.

Win the Map Pack, Win the Market

If you're serious about local SEO in 2025, Google Maps is your battlefield.

The top 3 positions in the map pack get the lion’s share of calls, clicks, and conversions. If you’re not in those spots, you’re leaving money on the table. And in competitive markets, every edge counts.

Here’s the bottom line:

You don’t need to do everything perfectly. But you do need to do the right things consistently.

Google Maps rankings aren’t a mystery. It’s a momentum game.

The businesses that win aren’t always the biggest. They’re the ones that show up, stay active, and keep giving Google--and their customers--what they’re looking for.

If you’re wondering how to boost your Google Maps rankings this year, stop wondering. Get to work.

The leads are out there. Time to go get them.

About the Author:

Josh Thompson is a local SEO strategist and founder of Brightbeam SEO, a Boise-based agency that helps local businesses rank higher on Google Maps and dominate their local markets. With nearly two decades of experience building and scaling businesses, Josh specializes in ranking Google Business Profiles to improve visibility, generate local leads, and profit.