Are you finding it challenging to capture the attention of local customers? With competition heating up in every local market, standing out can seem like a daunting task. That’s where local SEO becomes your secret weapon. By understanding the top local SEO trends and statistics shaping 2024, you can enhance your online visibility, effectively target your local audience, and drive valuable leads to your business. This year, local SEO is set to become even more pivotal for businesses aiming to strengthen their digital presence and attract more local customers.
To help you navigate the world of localised search, we’ve compiled the top 10 local SEO trends and statistics you need to be aware of in 2024. From the increasing prominence of businesses with a solid reputation to the evolving role of Google My Business Profiles, these insights will demonstrate the power of a solid local SEO strategy. Whether you’re a business owner looking to boost your local reach or a marketer seeking to improve your clients’ online performance, these trends and statistics will offer valuable guidance.
Let’s dive into the latest in local SEO and uncover the key trends and statistics that will help you succeed in 2024.
10 Must-Know Local SEO Statistics For 2024
Over 90% of global searches occur on Google.¹
As we move into 2024, it’s clear that optimising your Google My Business profile is more essential than ever. With over 90% of global searches taking place on Google and 8.5 billion searches daily, Google’s dominance in the search engine market is undeniable. In fact, customers are 2.7 times more likely to trust a business they find through a complete Google Business Profile.
With that being said, here are some tips that you can use to optimise your Google My Business profile. By implementing these strategies, you can boost your business’s visibility and credibility on Google, leveraging its immense reach to attract more customers.
Accurate Information: Ensure all business details, like address and hours, are up to date.
High-Quality Photos: Upload clear, professional images that represent your business well.
Customer Reviews: Encourage happy customers to leave positive reviews, and respond to them.
Regular Updates: Post updates, special offers, and news to keep your profile active and engaging.
Engage with Customers: Respond promptly to reviews and questions to show you value customer feedback.
70% of websites have adopted mobile-friendly designs for better local search rankings.²
Mobile-first indexing is a game changer for local SEO. Google now prioritises mobile versions of websites when determining rankings. This shift means that 7 out of 10 websites have already adopted mobile-friendly designs to stay competitive.
Why does this matter? Mobile-first indexing ensures that your site is accessible and easy to use on smartphones, which boosts your local search rankings. To create a mobile-friendly website, focus on responsive design, fast loading times, and easy navigation. By optimising for mobile, you improve user experience and increase your chances of appearing in local search results.
70% of websites have adopted mobile-friendly designs for better local search rankings
42% of millennials visit physical shops after a Google Maps search.³
If you need another reason to prioritise local SEO, consider this: 42% of millennials who search on Google Maps end up visiting the physical shop. This statistic highlights the incredible power of local SEO for driving in-store traffic. Millennials, the tech-savvy generation, rely on local searches to make quick purchasing decisions. They’re always on the go, using their smartphones to find the nearest stores and read reviews before heading out.
For businesses, this is a golden opportunity. By optimising your Google My Business profile and ensuring your map listings are accurate, you can attract these potential customers right to your doorstep. Local SEO isn’t just about being found online; it’s about converting digital searches into real-world sales. Embrace these trends to stay ahead of the competition and watch your foot traffic soar. Don’t miss out on capturing the attention of millennials who are ready to visit and shop!
24.4% of local business searches click on the first result.4
Imagine the potential of capturing nearly a quarter of all local search traffic by landing that coveted top spot on Google. As we dive into 2024, the importance of ranking first in local search results cannot be overstated.
To get there, start by securing your business listings across all major directories—every detail counts! Collaborate with local websites and influencers to gain valuable backlinks that enhance your credibility. Craft compelling, location-specific content that resonates with your community and keeps customers coming back. And don’t forget the power of structured data markup to help search engines understand your business better, giving you an edge in rankings.
By taking these steps, you’ll not only drive more traffic to your site but also turn those clicks into loyal customers.
24.4% of local business searches click on the first result
Nearly 64% of customers read Google Reviews before visiting a local business.5
Ever hesitated to visit a new place without checking its reviews? You’re not alone. Online reviews are powerful; they can make or break a customer’s decision. Imagine the impact of a glowing review on your business—it’s like free advertising!
Encourage your happy customers to leave positive reviews by providing outstanding service and simply asking them to share their experiences. Got a negative review? No problem. Respond quickly and kindly, showing that you care and are ready to make things right. These small actions can build trust and boost your visibility online.
Additionally, showcasing these reviews on your website and social media can further enhance your credibility. Remember, potential customers are looking for assurance that they’re making the right choice. By prioritising customer feedback and addressing concerns, you demonstrate a commitment to excellence, which can set you apart from competitors.
People are willing to pay 22% more for services from a business with a good online reputation.6
Picture walking into a store where everyone knows your name, praises your products, and trusts your services. That’s the kind of impact a good online reputation can have on your business. Customers are more likely to choose you over competitors, even if it costs them 22% more, simply because they trust you. Here’s how you can achieve that:
Be Social: Engage with your audience on social media. Regular updates and interactions make your business relatable and trustworthy.
Optimise Your Website: Make sure your website is user-friendly and mobile-responsive. Use relevant keywords to rank higher in local searches.
Stay Alert: Keep an eye on what’s being said about your business online. Respond to feedback promptly to show you care.
8% of local search queries are phrased as questions.7
When people search locally, they’re often looking for specific answers. They might ask, “Where’s the best coffee shop near me?” or “What time does the local library close?” This question-based approach means businesses must ensure their online content directly addresses these inquiries.
To optimise your content, start by identifying common questions related to your business or industry. Use tools like Google’s “People Also Ask” and AnswerThePublic to find popular questions. Then, create clear, concise content that provides direct answers. This can include FAQs, blog posts, and optimised meta descriptions.
By focusing on question-based searches, you can improve your local SEO and make it easier for customers to find you when they need specific information.
8% of local search queries are phrased as questions
28% of searches for something nearby result in a purchase.8
Local SEO is evolving, and businesses must stay updated to thrive. One major trend is the rise of ‘near me’ searches. With 28% of these searches leading to a purchase, local businesses can’t afford to ignore their impact. Customers increasingly rely on their smartphones to find nearby services and products, making it crucial for businesses to optimise their local SEO strategies.
To stay ahead, focus on creating locally relevant content, ensuring your website is mobile-friendly, and using schema markup to enhance search engine understanding of your business. Engage with your local community through events and sponsorships to boost local visibility. Utilise social media platforms to promote location-specific offers and updates. In 2024, businesses that prioritise local SEO will see increased foot traffic, higher conversion rates, and improved customer engagement.
56% of local businesses haven’t claimed their Google My Business profile.9
Imagine losing customers simply because you haven’t claimed your Google My Business profile. Shockingly, 56% of local businesses are in this exact position. With ‘open now near me’ searches skyrocketing by 400%, the importance of having a well-optimised GMB profile has never been greater.
Don’t let your business fall behind. Claiming your GMB profile is just the first step—optimising it is where the magic happens. This simple action can catapult your business to the top of local search results, making you the go-to choice for nearby customers.
In 2024, make it a priority to fully optimise your GMB profile. Add accurate business hours, engaging photos, and prompt responses to reviews. By doing so, you’ll attract more local customers and boost your business’s online presence.
56% of local businesses haven’t claimed their Google My Business profile
80% of local searches lead to conversions.10
Local searches are proving incredibly powerful, with a remarkable 80% leading to conversions. The latest survey reveals that four out of five searches on mobile devices result in a purchase, often within just a few hours. Among all devices, mobile phones boast the highest conversion rate, with nearly 80% of mobile searches ending in a purchase. Additionally, nearly three out of four mobile searches that convert drive customers to physical stores.
This trend highlights the importance of optimising for local SEO, particularly for mobile users, to capture these high-intent customers. Businesses that leverage these insights can expect significant boosts in both online and in-store traffic, making local SEO a critical strategy for 2024.
Maximise Your Success With These Local SEO Statistics
In the fast-evolving digital world, local SEO is a game-changer for businesses aiming to enhance their visibility and drive revenue. Our analysis of local SEO trends emphasises the importance of targeting local searches to boost your business’s presence and foot traffic.
With most consumers relying on online research before purchasing, a robust local SEO strategy is vital. Ensure your Google My Business profile is optimised, your website is mobile-friendly, and your online reviews are positive. Ignoring local SEO means missing out on valuable opportunities, especially as mobile and voice searches with local intent grow.
Staying updated with SEO practices is key to maintaining high search rankings and generating leads. Today’s local SEO investment will secure tomorrow’s success. Focus on the trends most relevant to your business and dedicate your resources to activities that will enhance your SEO performance.
References For Local SEO Statistics
- Search Engine Market Share Worldwide – May 2024. StatCounter. Accessed 11th June 2024.
- Google’s Mobile-First Indexing Update: Is Your Website Ready? Media Search Group. Accessed 11th June 2024.
- Local SEO Statistics Australia 2024. Red Search. Accessed 11th June 2024.
- 18 Local SEO Statistics That Matter in 2024. Safari Digital. Accessed 12th June 2024.
- 60 SEO Statistics For 2024. Forbes. Accessed 12th June 2024.
- 90 Online Review Statistics That Will Blow Your Mind in 2024. LocaliQ. Accessed 12th June 2024.
- 30 Local SEO Statistics to Improve Your 2024 Strategy. LocaliQ. Accessed 13th June 2024.
- How Mobile Search Connects Consumers to Stores. Think with Google. Accessed 13th June 2024.
- Only 44% of Local Retailers Have Claimed A Google My Business Listing? Local Marketing Institute. Accessed 13th June 2024.
- 95+ SEO Statistics From This Year That’ll Transform Your Strategy. WebFX. Accessed 13th June 2024.
