Local SEO is essential for businesses that want to attract customers in a specific geographic area. One of the most crucial steps in optimizing for local search is keyword research—finding the terms and phrases your potential customers are searching for. The right keywords can drive highly targeted traffic, improve Google rankings, and increase customer inquiries and sales.
This guide will walk you through the best keyword research strategies for local SEO, helping your business dominate search results in your area.
1. Understand the Importance of Local SEO Keywords
Local SEO keywords help businesses connect with nearby customers who are actively searching for their services. Unlike general SEO, which focuses on a broader audience, local keyword research targets location-specific searches.
Why local keyword research matters:
- Helps businesses rank in Google’s Local Pack and Google Maps
- Attracts highly targeted, ready-to-buy customers
- Improves search visibility for location-based queries
- Reduces competition compared to broad, national keywords
For example, instead of targeting “plumber,” a local business should target “emergency plumber in Chicago” to attract customers searching in their service area.
2. Use Google Autocomplete and Related Searches
Google itself is a powerful keyword research tool. It provides real-time data on what people are searching for in your area.
How to use Google’s built-in suggestions:
- Google Autocomplete – Start typing your service in Google, and it will suggest popular local searches.
- People Also Ask (PAA) – Look at the “People Also Ask” section to find common customer questions related to your service.
- Related Searches – Scroll to the bottom of Google’s search results to find related local keyword suggestions.
Example:
If you type “roofing services” into Google, it might suggest:
- Roofing services near me
- Best roofing services in Austin
- Affordable roofing services in Denver
These are high-value keywords that can drive local search traffic.
3. Leverage Google Keyword Planner for Local Keywords
Google Keyword Planner is a free tool that provides keyword ideas, search volume, and competition levels.
Steps to find local keywords in Keyword Planner:
- Go to Google Keyword Planner (requires a Google Ads account).
- Select “Discover new keywords” and enter your primary service keyword.
- Set location filters to your city, state, or region.
- Review local search volume, competition, and keyword trends.
Example:
A dentist in Miami could find:
- “best dentist in Miami” (high intent)
- “teeth whitening Miami” (service-specific)
- “emergency dental care near me” (urgent needs)
Google Keyword Planner provides data-driven insights to refine your local SEO strategy.
4. Find Location-Based Keywords with Google My Business Insights
If you have a Google Business Profile (GBP), the Insights tab reveals how people find your business.
How to use Google Business Profile for keyword research:
- Log into your Google Business Profile.
- Navigate to the Insights section.
- Look at search queries customers use to find your business.
- Identify high-performing keywords and add them to your SEO strategy.
Example:
A local HVAC company might see search terms like:
- “AC repair near me”
- “furnace installation in [city]”
- “24-hour HVAC service [city]”
These terms indicate real customer demand, making them valuable for SEO.
5. Analyze Competitor Keywords
Your local competitors are already ranking for valuable search terms. By analyzing their keyword strategies, you can find new opportunities.
How to analyze competitor keywords:
- Use SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Ubersuggest to analyze competitor websites.
- Enter a competitor’s URL to see which local keywords they rank for.
- Identify underutilized keywords where you can outrank them.
If a landscaping company in Dallas finds competitors ranking for:
- “lawn maintenance Dallas”
- “best landscapers in Dallas”
- “tree trimming services Dallas”
They can create optimized content and service pages targeting these keywords to increase visibility.
Find the Right Keywords, Dominate Local Search
A strong local SEO strategy begins with finding the right keywords that your customers are searching for. By leveraging Google Autocomplete, Keyword Planner, competitor analysis, and long-tail phrases, you can optimize your website and Google Business Profile to rank higher and attract more leads.
Need Help? DMN8 Partners specializes in local SEO strategies that put your business in front of high-intent customers. Contact us at (859) 757-2252 or visit salvonow.com to boost your local search rankings today!