Does Local SEO Still Work?

Yes, local SEO still works, and for many businesses it is the highest-return SEO there is. When someone searches for a service near them, they usually have strong intent and are close to acting, so appearing in the local pack or Google Maps often converts better than ranking for broad national terms. What has changed is that it has become more competitive, especially in dense areas, so a half-finished Google Business Profile no longer cuts it. It now takes a properly optimised profile, consistent citations, steady reviews, and content matched to how local customers search. But the fundamental value is intact. People still search locally, and being visible when they do brings real, ready-to-buy customers.