The Local SEO Guide to Ranking in Google’s 3-Pack & Map Pack
When customers search for businesses near them, they often see a special section at the top of Google’s search results displaying three local businesses along with their locations on a map. This is called the Google 3-Pack, sometimes referred to as the Map Pack—and it’s prime digital real estate for local businesses.
If your business isn’t showing up in these local results, you’re missing out on potential customers. In this guide, we’ll break down what the 3-Pack is, why it matters, and how you can improve your chances of ranking in it.
What is Google’s 3-Pack (Map Pack)?
The Google 3-Pack is the block of three local business listings that appear at the top of a search results page when someone looks for a product or service nearby. It includes:
Business name
Reviews (star rating)
Address (or service area)
Phone number
Hours of operation
A link to the website
A directions button
This section appears above traditional organic search results, making it one of the most visible and valuable spots on Google for local businesses.
Why Do Some Businesses Show Up in the 3-Pack?
Google determines which businesses appear based on three key factors:
Relevance – How well your business matches the search query (e.g., “coffee shop near me”).
Distance – How close your business is to the searcher’s location.
Prominence – How well-known and reputable your business is online (reviews, backlinks, website authority).
Why Ranking in the Google 3-Pack Matters
More Visibility, More Clicks
The 3-Pack appears above all other search results, giving businesses in this section a massive advantage. Many customers never scroll past it, meaning if you’re not there, you’re losing potential leads.Increased Local Traffic & Calls
Since the 3-Pack includes a call button and directions link, customers can quickly contact or visit your business without even clicking through to your website.Mobile & Voice Search Domination
More people are using mobile and voice searches to find businesses nearby. The 3-Pack is often the first thing shown in voice searches through Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, making it even more crucial for local visibility.
How Location Affects Search Results
One of the biggest factors in who sees your business in the 3-Pack is location.
If two people search for "pizza near me" from different parts of a city, they’ll see different results based on their proximity to nearby pizzerias.
If a business isn’t optimized well for multiple locations, it may only appear in searches very close to its address.
This means that where the searcher is physically located heavily influences whether your business appears in their search results.
How to Improve Your Ranking in the 3-Pack
If you want your business to show up in Google’s local rankings, here’s what you need to do:
Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is the most important factor in local rankings. Ensure:Your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are accurate.
You select the right business categories.
You add high-quality photos.
Your business hours and services are up to date.
Get More Reviews
Businesses with more positive reviews are more likely to rank in the 3-Pack. Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on Google, and always respond to reviews (good or bad).Improve Local Website SEO
Include your city, neighborhood, or service areas in your website content.
Add location pages if you serve multiple areas.
Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and loads quickly.
Build Local Citations
Make sure your business details (NAP) are consistent across directories like Yelp, Apple Maps, and Facebook.Use Location-Based Keywords
Instead of just targeting “plumber,” optimize for “plumber in Boise” or “emergency plumber near Meridian.”Post Regular Updates
Google favors active businesses. Post updates, offers, and events to your Google Business Profile to stay relevant.
Final Thoughts
Ranking in Google’s 3-Pack (Map Pack) is one of the best ways to attract local customers, but it doesn’t happen automatically. By optimizing your Google Business Profile, improving your website, and actively managing your online presence, you can increase your chances of being featured in these top results.
Need help optimizing your local SEO? Let’s get your business ranking where it matters most!
