● The short answer
The Google local pack is the block of map results, usually three businesses with a small map, that appears in Google Search for queries with local intent, like "dentist" or "pizza near me." Listings come from Google Business Profiles, ranked on relevance, distance and prominence. Being in it often matters more than ranking first in the regular results below it.
Key takeaways
- The local pack is the map block of businesses Google shows for searches with local intent.
- Listings come from Google Business Profiles ranked on relevance, distance and prominence.
- Reviews appear right next to your name, so reputation does much of the selling.
What the local pack looks like
Search "bike shop" or "coffee in Walker's Point" and Google typically shows a map with pins and a short list of businesses, each with its rating, review count, category, hours and buttons for website, directions or calls. That block is the local pack. On mobile it often sits near the top of the page. Tapping "more places" opens the full Google Maps list, sometimes called the local finder.
The layout changes regularly. Google tests different numbers of listings, adds sponsored listings at the top, and in some searches places AI Overviews or AI Mode content above or around the map. The constant is that the businesses come from Business Profiles, not from web pages. Your website still matters, because Google uses it to understand relevance and because many people click through before calling, but the listing itself is the profile. That is why a business with a modest website and an excellent profile can outrank a competitor with a far better site.
The how is where we come in.
What we walk through with you, for your business:
- How Google chooses the businesses
- Why the local pack matters so much
- How to get into it, in order
- Our take
Every business is different, so the plan is too. Tell us where you want to show up and we will show you what it takes.
Talk to usMore questions
How many businesses show in the local pack?
Usually three in the main block, though Google tests other layouts and may add sponsored listings. Clicking through to more places opens the full Maps list with many more results. Because the main block is so short, moving from fourth to third can matter far more than any change further down.
Is the local pack the same as Google Maps?
They use the same Business Profile data and similar ranking factors, but they are different surfaces. The pack appears inside Google Search results; Google Maps is the separate app and site. Rankings are often similar but not identical, and Maps shows many more results with more filters.
Sources
- Google Business Profile Help: Tips to improve your local ranking on Google
- BrightLocal: Local Consumer Review Survey 2026
- Google: Grounding with Google Maps now available in the Gemini API
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