Source: Search Engine Roundtable by barry@rustybrick.com (Barry Schwartz). Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of Google Maps Search Results Now Ranking on Google SERPs for “Near Me” Queries
**Google Search** has started **indexing and ranking** Google Maps search result pages for some **“near me” queries**. This is notable because Google traditionally blocks search results pages from being indexed. Users can now see direct links to Google Maps searches, such as **restaurants near me**, appearing in the main search results. This behavior was first identified by SEO expert Khushal Bherwani and has been verified with live examples.
Optimixed’s Overview: How Google is Integrating Google Maps Search Pages into Main Search Results for Local Queries
Google’s Shift in Indexing Local Search Results
Google appears to be experimenting with indexing Google Maps search result URLs for certain localized queries that include phrases like “near me”. This is a significant change because Google’s longstanding policy has been to prevent search results pages from appearing in the main search index, to avoid clutter and duplication.
What This Means for Local SEO and User Experience
- Increased Visibility for Local Businesses: Local business listings within Google Maps searches may receive more direct exposure on Google Search results pages (SERPs).
- New Traffic Pathways: Users can directly access Google Maps search interfaces from standard search results, possibly enhancing the user journey for local searches.
- Potential Indexing Anomaly or Strategy: It remains unclear if this indexing is intentional or an unintended side effect, but it signals evolving search ecosystem behaviors.
Key Takeaways
This development was first spotted by SEO analyst Khushal Bherwani and quickly verified through queries like restaurants near me. If this indexing continues, it could impact how local SEO strategies are planned, emphasizing the importance of optimizing for Google Maps presence alongside traditional organic search.
