Here are the ten most crucial local SEO statistics in 2024: 

Google Business Profile (GBP) Dominance

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1. Over 90% of all global searches occur on Google, emphasizing the significance of optimizing Google Business profiles.‍

With over 90% of global searches on Google, the imperative to optimize Google Business profiles becomes undeniable. Recognizing the unparalleled reach and influence of Google in online searches underscores the critical importance for businesses to enhance their presence on Google Business profiles strategically. This optimization ensures visibility and maximizes opportunities for engagement and connection with the vast online audience utilizing Google's search platform.

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2. 56% of Local Businesses Have Not Yet Claimed Their Google Business Profile.

While this statistic may seem surprising, the report highlights a substantial portion of local businesses that have not tapped into the potential of this vital online tool. Taking ownership of your Google Business profile is a pivotal move in local SEO, as it guarantees that your business is accurately represented in Google Maps and local search results.

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Apple Business Connect

Apple Maps continues to grow in importance. With the launch of Apple Business Connect, the signals are clear - Apple is putting more effort into making it easier for small businesses to get listed on Apple Maps. 

3. A study by BrightLocal reports that 58% of businesses haven't taken control of their Apple Place cards, and 59% are unaware of the features of the Apple Place Card. 

BrightLocal's study reveals a significant oversight, with 58% of businesses yet to claim their Apple Place cards, missing out on crucial visibility. Additionally, 59% are unaware of the card's features, signaling an untapped potential for businesses to enhance their online presence and engagement through this platform.

4. Around 3/4 of restaurants have different opening hours on Google and Apple Maps. 

According to a study by Mobal, 3/4 of restaurants have mismatching opening hours on Apple and Google Maps.

Yet, nearly 50% of users in the US use iPhones, where Apple Maps is the primary navigation app. It's time for businesses to take full advantage of their Apple Place Cards. 

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Voice Search Impact

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5. By 2024, it is projected that over 50% of all searches will be conducted through voice search.

The trajectory of technological advancements suggests that by 2024, voice search is anticipated to surpass 50% of all searches, marking a substantial shift in the way users interact with digital platforms. This projection underscores the increasing significance of optimizing content and strategies for voice-enabled devices to stay relevant in the evolving landscape of online search behavior.

Mobile-First Indexing Importance

6. Google prioritizes mobile-first indexing, and 70% of websites have adopted mobile-friendly designs to enhance local search rankings.

With Google placing a strong emphasis on mobile-first indexing, approximately 70% of websites have embraced mobile-friendly designs to bolster their local search rankings. This strategic shift underscores the recognition among website owners of the critical role mobile optimization plays in ensuring visibility and accessibility in the evolving landscape of online search.

Positive Reviews Influence

7. 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business, highlighting the impact of positive reviews on local SEO.

The significance of online reviews in influencing consumer decisions is evident as a staggering 90% of individuals actively read reviews before choosing to visit a business. This statistic underscores the profound impact that positive reviews can have on local SEO, as they not only serve as a crucial factor in shaping a business's reputation but also play a pivotal role in influencing search engine rankings.

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Online Citations

8. Local businesses with accurate online citations are 70% more likely to rank higher in local search results.

While citations have seen a decline in overall significance, they remain valuable for enhancing visibility and fostering trust with consumers. Ensuring that a business's information is accurate and consistent across the web not only contributes to credibility but also establishes a foundation for building trust with potential customers.

Local SEO and In-Store Visits

9. 30% of searches from mobile devices are related to a specific location

This statistic highlights the substantial prevalence of location-based queries among mobile device users, indicating that a significant portion of search intent is focused on finding information relevant to specific geographic locations.

10. 78% of local mobile searches lead to an offline purchase, emphasizing the connection between local SEO and in-store visits.

The correlation between local SEO and in-store visits is striking, with 78% of local mobile searches resulting in offline purchases. This statistic underscores the pivotal role of local search optimization in driving tangible, real-world consumer actions and highlights the significance of a robust online presence for businesses seeking to convert digital interest into in-store transactions.

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Frequently asked questions

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As businesses navigate the competitive landscape of local SEO in 2024, these statistics provide valuable insights into the evolving digital and local marketing trends. Staying ahead of these trends and leveraging them strategically can significantly enhance a business's local online presence and, ultimately, its success in attracting and retaining local customers.

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How can businesses claim their Google Business Profile?

‍Claiming your Google Business profile is simple. Visit Google My Business website, search for your business, and follow the steps provided to verify and claim ownership of your profile.

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What is Apple Business Connect and why should businesses utilize it?

‍Apple Business Connect is a platform that allows businesses to manage their presence on Apple Maps. With over half of users in the US using iPhones and Apple Maps as their primary navigation app, optimizing your presence on Apple Maps through Apple Business Connect can significantly enhance your visibility to potential customers.

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How can businesses rectify mismatched opening hours on Google and Apple Maps?

‍To ensure consistency in opening hours across Google and Apple Maps, businesses should regularly update their information on both platforms. Utilizing Apple Business Connect and Google My Business can help in managing and synchronizing opening hours effectively.

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How can businesses optimize for voice search?

‍To optimize for voice search, businesses should focus on creating content that answers common voice search queries concisely and naturally. Additionally, optimizing for local keywords and ensuring that your website is mobile-friendly can also improve your visibility in voice search results.

What is mobile-first indexing and why is it important for local SEO?

‍Mobile-first indexing is Google's practice of using the mobile version of a website for indexing and ranking in search results. It's important for local SEO because Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites, and having a mobile-friendly design can improve your local search rankings.

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How can businesses encourage positive reviews to enhance local SEO?

‍Businesses can encourage positive reviews by providing excellent products or services, engaging with customers to address their concerns promptly, and making it easy for customers to leave feedback through various platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, and social media.‍

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What are online citations and how do they impact local search results?

‍Online citations are mentions of your business's name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other websites. Having accurate and consistent citations across the web can improve your credibility and trustworthiness, leading to higher rankings in local search results.‍

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How can businesses leverage local SEO to drive in-store visits?

‍Businesses can leverage local SEO to drive in-store visits by optimizing their website and Google Business profile for local keywords, encouraging positive reviews, and providing accurate and up-to-date information about their location, hours, and contact details.

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What are some key takeaways for businesses regarding local SEO in 2024?

‍In 2024, businesses should prioritize optimizing their online presence on platforms like Google Business Profile and Apple Maps, adapting to the increasing popularity of voice search, ensuring mobile-friendliness, and actively managing online reviews and citations to enhance their local SEO efforts and attract more local customers.

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