How Google Maps Really Works
April 28, 2026•8 min read
The three-pack of businesses shown on Google Maps for local searches gets the overwhelming majority of clicks and calls. Understanding what drives that ranking is critical.
The ranking factors
Proximity to the searcher, relevance of your listed categories and services, and overall prominence — driven by reviews, links, and citations — combine to determine your Map Pack position.
Improving any one of these moves the needle, but improving all three together is what produces lasting top-three placement.