Map Pack (Local Pack)
The Map Pack (also called Local Pack or 3-Pack) is the section of Google search results that displays a map with 3 local business listings for location-based queries.
When you search for something local like "flooring contractor Orange County" or "bathroom remodeler near me," Google shows a map with 3 business listings. This is the Map Pack.
Why the Map Pack matters:
The Map Pack appears above organic search results, making it prime real estate for local businesses. Studies show that Map Pack results receive a significant portion of clicks for local searches.
What determines Map Pack rankings:
1. Relevance
How well does your business match the search query? Your business categories, services, and content all signal relevance.
2. Distance
How close is your business to the searcher (or the location they specified)? Closer businesses often rank higher, but distance isn't everything.
3. Prominence
How well-known and trusted is your business? Reviews, citations, backlinks, and overall web presence contribute to prominence.
How to get into the Map Pack:
- Optimize your Google Business Profile completely
- Choose accurate business categories
- Build citations on relevant directories
- Earn more reviews (and respond to them)
- Ensure NAP consistency across the web
- Create location-specific website content
Map Pack vs. organic results:
The Map Pack is different from organic (website) search results. You can appear in both, but they require different optimization strategies. Local SEO focuses on Map Pack visibility, while traditional SEO focuses on website rankings.
For contractors, the Map Pack is often more valuable than website rankings because searchers can call you directly from the Map Pack listing.
Related Terms
Local SEO
Local SEO is the practice of optimizing a business's online presence to attract customers from local searches, such as 'flooring contractor near me' or 'bathroom remodeler Orange County.'
Google Business Profile (GBP)
Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free tool that lets businesses manage their online presence across Google Search and Google Maps.