According to a Google official speaking at the Secrets of Local Search event in 2018, 46% of all search queries have local intent (Search Engine Roundtable, 2018).
In today’s digital landscape, visibility is everything. But for local businesses, it’s not just about being seen—it’s about being found by the right customers, in the right location, and at the right time. This is where SEO tips & local SEO keywords play a crucial role.
For example, if you own a bakery in London, simply targeting “best bakery” isn’t enough. You need “best bakery in London” or “artisan bakery near Covent Garden” to ensure your business shows up when potential customers search locally.
In this guide, we’ll explore what local SEO keywords are, how to find them, and how to use them effectively to drive more traffic and sales.
What Are Local SEO Keywords?
A local SEO keyword is a search term that includes location-specific phrases to help businesses rank in local search results. These keywords allow you to appear in Google Maps, “near me” searches, and location-based queries.
For example:
- “Best coffee shop in Bristol”
- “24-hour locksmith near Liverpool Street, London”
- “Pet groomers in Manchester city centre”
By optimising your website with local keywords, you increase your chances of appearing in front of nearby customers looking for exactly what you offer.
How to Find the Best Local SEO Keywords?
1. Use Google’s Autocomplete & “People Also Ask”
Start typing a search term into Google, and it will suggest related searches. If you run a plumbing service in Birmingham, typing “plumbers in Birmingham” might show:
- “Emergency plumbers in Birmingham”
- “Affordable plumbing services in Birmingham city centre”
Check the “People also ask” section to discover real customer queries.
2. Google’s “Searches Related To” Section
At the bottom of Google’s search results, you’ll find suggested keywords based on popular searches.
For a fitness studio in Leeds, you might find:
- “Best personal trainers in Leeds”
- “Affordable gym memberships in Leeds city centre”
3. Use Keyword Research Tools
Several tools help with local SEO keyword research, including:
- Google Keyword Planner (Free)
- Ubersuggest (Free & Paid)
- Ahrefs & SEMrush (Paid)
- Google Trends (For seasonal trends)
These tools provide search volume, competition levels, and keyword variations.
4. Spy on Competitors
Check how top-ranking businesses in your industry optimise their websites:
- Look at their meta descriptions, headings, and blogs.
- Analyse their Google My Business listing.
- Identify which local keywords they target.
If they’re ranking well, they’re doing something right, and you can learn from them.
5. Find “Near Me” Keywords
“Near me” searches are hugely popular for local businesses. Some examples:
- “Best barber near me”
- “Top-rated dental clinic near me”
- “Emergency vet near me”
Google automatically personalises results based on the user’s location, so make sure your Google My Business listing is accurate and complete.
Where to Use Local SEO Keywords for Maximum Impact?
Once you’ve found the right keywords, placing them strategically is crucial.
1. Website Content
Use your local SEO keyword naturally in:
- Homepage & service pages
- Blog posts about local topics
- FAQs (e.g., “Do you offer same-day delivery in Cardiff?”)
2. Page Titles & Meta Descriptions
Make sure your title tags and meta descriptions include your keyword + location.
“Best Sushi Restaurant in Edinburgh | Fresh & Authentic Japanese Cuisine”
Meta description example:
“Looking for the best sushi in Edinburgh? Visit us for hand-rolled sushi, sashimi, and an authentic Japanese dining experience.”
3. Google My Business (GMB) Profile
Optimise your GMB listing with relevant keywords in:
- Business description
- Services & products
- Posts & updates
For example, a beauty salon in Glasgow might write:
“We offer expert skincare, facials, and bridal makeup services in Glasgow city centre.”
4. Image Alt Text & URLs
Google can’t read images, but it reads alt text.
Instead of using vague file names like “IMG1234.webp”, use descriptive and keyword-rich names like “10-Best-Tips-Tricks-to-Improve-Local-SEO-Featured-Image.webp”.
Similarly, structure your URLs to be clear and relevant:
“https://websitevala.in/tips-to-improve-local-seo/”
5. Local Business Directories & Citations
Ensure NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistency across all listings:
Mistakes to Avoid in Local SEO Keyword Optimisation
Practising local SEO can add immense value to your business growth if you can avoid these mistakes.
- Keyword stuffing – Using too many keywords unnaturally hurts rankings.
- Ignoring mobile optimisation – 61% of mobile users are more likely to reach out to a local business with a mobile-friendly site.
- Focusing only on broad terms – “Best lawyer” is too generic. “Best family lawyer in Sheffield” is more effective.
Final Thoughts
Local SEO keywords help businesses attract nearby customers who are actively looking for their products or services. By conducting smart local SEO keyword research, optimising your website, and keeping your Google My Business profile updated, you can boost your rankings and drive more foot traffic.
We at Websitevala follow the latest and effective SEO practices for our esteemed clientele. Our experts are well-trained and offer the best SEO results in a remarkably short timeframe.
Start your SEO journey with us and make it easier for local customers to find you effortlessly!
As a digital marketer, SEO lecturer and WordPress developer I support other freelancers and businesses with their websites from helping with the design and blog posts to optimizing them for search engines. I’m the founder of Websitevala and support successful digital marketing companies like ClickDo as a virtual assistant.
