The 3 Main Factors That Affect Your Google Maps Ranking
Why does one business appear at the top of Google Maps while another appears much further down?
There isn't one simple answer.
According to Google, local search results are mainly influenced by three factors:
Relevance, distance, and prominence.
Let's look at what each one actually means.
1. Relevance — Does Your Business Match the Search?
Relevance is about how well a business matches what someone is searching for.
For example, if someone searches:
"dentist in Oslo"
Google wants to show businesses that are actually relevant to that search.
That's why it's important to give Google accurate information about your business through your Google Business Profile.
This includes things such as your business category, services, and other information that helps Google understand what your business does.
Google recommends keeping your Business Profile complete and accurate.
That doesn't mean you should fill your profile with keywords.
Your business name, for example, should reflect your real-world business name rather than being stuffed with keywords simply to try to rank higher.
The goal is to make your business clear to Google and customers, not to manipulate the system.
2. Distance — Where Is the Searcher?
Distance is another major factor in local search.
Google considers how far a business is from the person searching.
This means there isn't necessarily one fixed Google Maps ranking for your business.
Someone searching from Grünerløkka might see different local results from someone searching from Ryen — even if both people search for exactly the same thing.
This is also why you should be careful when someone tells you:
"You're number 3 on Google Maps."
The next question should be:
"Where was the search made?"
Local results can vary depending on where the search comes from.
3. Prominence — How Well Known Is Your Business?
The third factor is prominence.
Google describes prominence as how well-known a business is.
Google says prominence can be influenced by information from around the web, including links to your business. Google also states that the number of reviews and positive ratings can contribute to local ranking.
This doesn't mean you can simply buy your way to the top of Google Maps.
Google explicitly states that businesses cannot pay for a better local ranking.
Instead, prominence is something that can develop over time through your business's overall online presence and reputation.
So Which Factor Is Most Important?
There isn't a simple answer.
Google identifies relevance, distance, and prominence as the main factors behind local search results, but the results can vary depending on the specific search and the searcher's location.
That's why it's not particularly useful to look for one secret "Google Maps ranking factor."
It's better to look at the whole picture.
Start With These Questions
Is your Google Business Profile complete and accurate?
Is your primary category relevant?
Are your services clearly described?
Is your address or service area correct?
Are you receiving genuine customer reviews?
Is your business information consistent across the web?
Does your website clearly explain what you offer and where you operate?
None of these guarantees a particular ranking.
But they help make sure Google has accurate and useful information about your business.
Google Maps Isn't About One Thing
If you want to improve your local visibility, don't just ask:
"How do I get to number one?"
A better question is:
"Why is Google showing my competitor above me?"
That's where a proper local SEO analysis begins.
By looking at relevance, distance, prominence, and how your business is represented online, you can identify areas that may be worth improving.
Want to know how your business currently performs on Google Maps?
NorthPeak Solutions helps local businesses improve their Google Business Profile and local visibility.
[Contact NorthPeak Solutions →]