Google Maps ads—also known as local search ads—appear as promoted pins or featured listings when users search for services nearby. As part of standard Google Ads campaigns, these are charged via cost-per-click (CPC).
💰 Cost Per Click (CPC)
- Average CPC falls between approximately $2–$6 per click for many local campaigns. Highly competitive industries (e.g. legal, insurance) can reach $50+ per click or more. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- An overall average across Google Ads in 2025 is about $4–5 per click for commercial intent keywords. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Low‑competition local markets may see CPC as low as $0.20–$1.70.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
📅 Monthly & Daily Budget Benchmarks
- Small to mid‑sized businesses often spend between $1,000–$10,000 per month on Google Ads—including Maps ads. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- New campaigns may start around $20–$50 per day (~$600–$1,500/month). :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Search ad investment ranges typically fall in the $100–$10,000/month range. Costs scale with campaign goals and competitive targeting. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
⚙️ What Influences Your Cost?
- Industry & competition: High‑value sectors like legal, healthcare, and insurance often have much higher CPCs due to competition. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- Location targeting: Major metro areas demand higher bids than small towns. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Keyword strategy: “Near me” terms or urgent queries tend to cost more per click. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Ad & Quality Score: Relevance and CTR can reduce your actual CPC—even with competitive industries. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Campaign type: Standard Search or Performance Max campaigns using location extensions typically use CPC charging—but some PMax store‑goal campaigns may use CPM pricing for branded pin impressions in Maps.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
📋 Example Scenarios
- Ice Cream Shop (low competition): CPCs around $0.50–$1.70, with a monthly spend of $250–$500 recommendation.:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Coffee Shop in city centre: Likely CPC ~ $1–$2, ideal starter budget ~$1,000/month.:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- Law Firm or Insurance Agency: CPCs could easily exceed $50, leading to monthly budgets of several thousand dollars.:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
✅ Recommendations & Best Practices
- Start with a modest daily budget (e.g. $20–$50/day) and adjust based on performance and conversion metrics.
- Use localized keywords (“near me”, “[service] in [city]”) to reach high‑intent users.
- Link and optimize your Google Business Profile to improve ad relevance and Quality Score.
- Track cost‑per‑action (calls, directions, website visits) and optimize campaigns over time.
- Performance Max campaigns may allow CPM pricing for map logos—but search‑based campaigns remain CPC-driven. Monitor your billing type in campaign settings.:contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
📊 Quick Cost Summary
| Business Type / Scenario | CPC Range | Suggested Monthly Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Low‑competition, small shop | $0.20–$2.00 | $250–$1,000 |
| Typical local SME (e.g. café, salon) | $1–$3 | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Competitive local service (e.g. legal, insurance) | $20–$50+ | $5,000+ |
In short, Google Maps ads operate under the standard Google Ads CPC model: expect to pay per click on directions, calls, or profile views. While average CPCs generally hover between $2–$6, costs can vary widely based on industry, location, and campaign configuration.
Let me know if you’d like help estimating your expected CPC based on your business type and location, or optimizing your Google Business Profile to improve ad performance!
