What is Proximity?
TL;DR
Proximity is the physical distance between the searcher and a local business.
Definition
Proximity is the physical distance between the searcher and a local business. It is one of the three primary local ranking factors (alongside relevance and prominence). Google and AI systems prioritize businesses that are geographically close to the searcher.
Why It Matters
Proximity is the hardest local ranking factor to influence - you cannot move your business closer to every customer. However, you can optimize your service area, create location-specific content, and ensure your address is accurately listed to maximize proximity relevance.
Examples
- A dentist 1km from the searcher ranking above one 8km away for 'dentist near me'
- A plumber who covers the searcher's neighbourhood ranking higher than one who doesn't serve that area
Frequently Asked Questions
What is proximity in local SEO?
Proximity is the physical distance between the searcher and a local business. It's one of the three primary local ranking factors (alongside relevance and prominence). Google and AI systems prioritize businesses geographically close to the searcher.
Can I improve my proximity ranking?
Proximity is the hardest factor to influence - you can't move your business. However, you can optimize your service area, create location-specific content, ensure your address is accurately listed, and use location pages for multiple service areas.
How does proximity affect service area businesses?
Service area businesses that travel to customers face unique proximity challenges. List your service areas on Google Business Profile, create dedicated location pages for each city you serve, and build citations that list your service area.
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