Marketing strategy to improve Google Map Pack rankings for local business

How to Rank in Google’s Local 3-Pack (Map Pack)

The Google Map Pack — that trio of top results under the map — is the most valuable real estate in local search. If your business isn’t showing up there, your competitors are stealing your leads.

At Firm IQ, we specialize in ranking our clients in the Local 3-Pack with Google Business Profile (GBP) strategies that actually move the needle. Want the full picture of how GBP works? Start with our overview page.

What Is the Google Map Pack?

When someone types “near me” or searches for a local service, Google shows a map with three featured businesses — that’s the Map Pack. It’s driven by:

  • Relevance — How well your listing matches the query
  • Proximity — How close you are to the searcher
  • Prominence — Your reviews, activity, and reputation

What Impacts Your Map Pack Ranking?

Ranking in the 3-Pack isn’t just about keywords. You need:

  • Fully optimized GBP — including categories, services, and photos
  • Location authority — from NAP citations and backlinks
  • Consistent activity — like posts and responses to reviews
  • Trust signals — strong review velocity and sentiment

Explore our in-depth guide to Map Pack ranking factors for more technical detail.

Our Approach to Map Pack Visibility

We blend hyperlocal SEO with scalable strategy. Whether you’re a solo business or a 100-location franchise, our approach includes:

  • Geo-specific keywords and metadata
  • Localized landing pages and schema
  • Location-focused content and FAQs
  • Consistent GBP post and review management

GBP Map Pack vs. Traditional Local SEO

The Map Pack is part of local SEO — but it follows different rules. If you want to rank in organic results and Maps, check out our side-by-side comparison.

Ready to Show Up Where It Matters?

If you're not in the 3-Pack, you’re not getting seen. We’ll audit your presence, identify what's missing, and build a clear plan to rise up the local ranks — ethically, sustainably, and fast.

Let’s Map Out Your Climb to the Top →

FAQs

How long does it take to rank in the Map Pack?
Most businesses see measurable improvements in 30–90 days, depending on competition, profile strength, and local factors.

Is the Map Pack ranking based on reviews?
Reviews are part of the equation — especially recency, volume, and keyword use — but other signals like proximity and relevance matter too.

Can a business with no storefront rank in the Map Pack?
Yes. Service-area businesses can absolutely rank, as long as they follow Google's guidelines for hidden address listings.

What’s the best way to monitor Map Pack rankings?
We use geo-grid tracking tools and GBP insights to measure visibility across different zip codes and neighborhoods.

Is being in the Map Pack enough?
It’s a huge boost — but we recommend pairing it with localized organic SEO and landing pages for best results.