How to Show Local Search Ads on Google Maps

Local search ads on Google Maps (also known as “Map Pack ads” or “Promoted Pins”) help local businesses appear at the top of map results when users search for services nearby.

✅ Why They Matter

• High visibility: Ads may appear as square “promoted pins” or featured listings at the top of map search results.
• Local intent targeting: Your business is shown to users actively searching “[service] near me” or “[service] in [city]”.
• Built trust: Map ads pull info from your Google Business Profile—reviews, hours, photos—for better engagement.

🛠️ How Local Search Ads Work

• Promoted pins: These replace standard round map pins with square or custom‑logo icons on Maps, making your business stand out.
• Map search ads: Appear above listings in Maps search results, often with “Ad” labels and call‑to‑action buttons.
• Map suggestion ads: Suggested businesses based on user search history and location.

🚀 Step‑by‑Step Setup

1. Link your Google Business Profile (GBP): Verify and link your GBP in Google Ads. This enables Location assets/extensions. (GBP is required for Map ads.)
2. Enable Location assets: In your Google Ads campaign, go to the “Assets” or “Extensions” section and add your location asset to pull GBP info. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
3. Create the ad campaign: Use a standard Search campaign or a Performance Max (“PMax”) campaign with local geomarketing enabled. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
4. Set geo‑targeting: Define the cities, zip codes, or a precise radius where you want your ads to appear. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
5. Choose local keywords: Use keywords like “plumber near me”, “carpet cleaning [city]”, “best locksmith nearby”. These signals increase your chance of showing up in Map Pack. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
6. Review assets & bid strategy: Ensure your ad includes GBP features like hours, reviews, photos; set competitive bids optimized for store visit or direction clicks. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

📊 Tracking Performance

• In Google Ads, navigate to your campaign and select Segment → Click Type.
• Look for “Get location details”, “Get directions”, or “Mobile clicks‑to‑call” — these typically indicate clicks via Maps ad placements. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

💡 Pro Tips & Best Practices

• Promoted Pins simulate coupons or offers: You can include a deal or discount offer in a pin to show when clicked. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Performance Max can deliver Maps ads: When set correctly (GBP linked, location asset enabled, local targeting), PMax campaigns may serve your ads on Google Maps. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• No maps-only campaigns: You cannot limit ads to Maps only—they run through Search Network or PMax and Google’s systems decide where they show. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

📌 Key Benefits

• Boost foot traffic and store visits
• Generate calls directly from ad listing
• Increase website traffic via landing pages
• Stand out above organic listings with ratings and rich visuals

🧾 Quick Summary

By following these steps, your business can appear in high‑visibility map search results, helping you reach customers actively searching nearby. Let me know if you’d like tips on ad creatives, bid strategy, or performance optimization!