How to Do Local Keyword Research

Local keyword research is essential for businesses targeting customers in specific geographic areas. By identifying the right local search terms, you can improve your local SEO strategy, rank higher in search results, and attract more customers.

This guide explains what local keyword research is, why it’s important, and how to find and optimize local keywords for SEO success.

What is Local Keyword Research?

Local keyword research involves identifying search terms that customers use to find businesses in their area. These keywords typically include location-based terms such as "best coffee shop in New York," "plumber near me," "affordable dentist in Los Angeles," or "Chicago real estate agent."

Tip: Local keywords help businesses rank in Google’s Local Pack, Google Maps, and organic search results.

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Why is Local Keyword Research Important?

Local keyword research is vital for improving local search rankings and driving relevant traffic to your business. It helps businesses rank for "near me" searches, targets high-intent customers, and enhances Google My Business (GMB) visibility. Local searches lead to higher conversion rates, increase foot traffic, and provide an edge in competing with nearby businesses.

Without proper local keyword research, businesses miss out on connecting with local customers.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Local Keyword Research

1. Identify Core Services & Locations

Start by listing your main services or products and the locations you serve. For example, a roofing business in Miami could focus on services like "roof repair," "metal roofing," and "flat roof installation." Then combine services with locations to create local keywords like "Best roof repair in Miami" or "Metal roofing contractor Fort Lauderdale."

Tip: Combine services + location to create targeted local keywords.

2. Use Google Autocomplete & Related Searches

Google Autocomplete suggests popular local search terms when you type in keywords. To use Google Autocomplete, go to Google.com, type a service + location, and note the suggestions. For instance, "electrician in Austin" could provide results like "Affordable electrician in Austin" or "Emergency electrician near me."

Tip: Scroll to the bottom of Google’s search results to find "related searches."

3. Use Keyword Research Tools for Local SEO

SEO tools help identify high-volume, low-competition local keywords. Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, Ahrefs Keyword Explorer, SEMrush, and Google Trends provide keyword volume, competition data, and search trends specific to locations.

Tip: Use long-tail local keywords (e.g., "best Italian restaurant in Brooklyn") for easier ranking.

4. Analyze Competitor Local Keywords

Identify the keywords that your top competitors are ranking for and use them in your strategy. Search for local services, analyze top-ranking competitors' websites with tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or Moz, and target similar or high-performing keywords.

Tip: Focus on keywords competitors rank for but don’t optimize well.

5. Find “Near Me” Keywords

Many customers use "near me" searches to find businesses nearby. Examples include "Car repair near me," "Best sushi restaurant near me," or "Pet groomer near me open now."

Tip: Use structured data markup (Schema.org) to help search engines recognize your location.

6. Optimize Your Google My Business (GMB) Profile

Google My Business is crucial for local SEO. Add primary local keywords to your GMB business description, use local keywords in GMB posts and updates, and respond to reviews with location-based phrases.

Tip: GMB optimized with local keywords increases Google Maps rankings.

7. Create Localized Content & Blog Posts

Publishing local content improves search rankings. Write city-specific blog posts, local case studies, community event updates, and neighborhood guides. These types of content help attract local search traffic.

Tip: Use local landmarks and events in your content to attract local search traffic.

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How to Track Local Keyword Performance

Monitor keyword performance using tools like Google Search Console, Google Analytics, BrightLocal, and Moz Local. These tools help track local search queries, keyword rankings, and local SEO performance.

Tip: Regularly update local keywords based on search trends and competitor insights.

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Common Local Keyword Research Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes in local keyword research:

• Ignoring long-tail local keywords

• Not optimizing for "near me" searches

• Failing to analyze competitor keywords

• Overusing exact match keywords

• Skipping Google My Business optimization

Tip: Update local keyword strategies every 3-6 months to stay competitive.

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