Local SEO is the set of practices that help a business show up when people search with location intent — “dentist in Buckhead,” “plumber near me,” “best brunch Decatur.” The goal is visibility in Google Search, the map pack, and Google Business Profile — not only national blue links.
It builds on classic SEO (keywords, meta descriptions, schema markup like LocalBusiness) plus local signals: accurate NAP (name, address, phone), reviews, categories, and pages that mention the areas you serve. Voice search is often local too, so clear answers and hours matter on the SERP.
A real-life example of local SEO
Two Atlanta coffee shops have similar sites. One claims Midtown on Instagram but never finishes its Google Business Profile. The other keeps hours current, asks for reviews, and has a “Visit us in Midtown” page with map and parking. When someone searches “coffee near me” on Peachtree, the second shop shows in the map pack. That’s local SEO at work.
Start with Google Business Profile, then align the website. Practical guides: Local SEO in Atlanta and Near Me Searches.