Local SEOs are discussing a potential new Google ranking factor related to the service area setting in Google Business Profile (GBP). Historically, this setting had no impact on local rankings, but recent observations suggest a change. Darren Shaw, a prominent figure in the local SEO community, shared anecdotal evidence supporting this theory.
Shaw's quick tests involved a mobile notary business that was not ranking well in its target area. The business's "pin" was located in a farmer's field, according to lat/long data from Pleper. After updating the service areas in GBP to focus on the target area, the business's rankings improved. The lat/long in Pleper also changed to the target area after the service area update in GBP.
Shaw's findings have sparked interest among local SEOs, reminiscent of the early days of web search SEO. Further testing is planned to confirm the potential impact of service area settings on local Google rankings.
Here is Darren's post:
🚨 I think there is a NEW Local Ranking Factor! Local SEOs have always known that setting service areas on your Google Business Profile has no impact on rankings. We've gone so far as to call this "factor" a local search myth. But, I've heard a couple people say they think… pic.twitter.com/vkNrB0860p — Darren Shaw (@DarrenShaw_) May 14, 2024
The discussion continues on various forums.
