💡 Summary
If you run a local business, your customers aren’t everywhere—they’re nearby! 🏠
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to use Google Ads for local businesses to target people in your area, drive foot traffic, and grow your customer base fast.
📋 What to Expect:
- Why Google Ads is Perfect for Local Businesses
- How Local Targeting Works in Google Ads
- Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up Local Campaigns
- Real-Life Local Ad Examples
- FAQs About Local Google Ads
- Final Thoughts
Why Google Ads is Perfect for Local Businesses 📍
👉 46% of all Google searches are looking for local information.
👉 76% of people who search for something nearby visit a store within a day.
Whether you own a spa, bakery, gym, or service-based business, Google Ads lets you appear right when someone nearby is looking for you.
How Local Targeting Works in Google Ads 🗺️
Google Ads offers location-based targeting options to make sure your ads show to people:
✅ In specific cities, neighborhoods, or radius around your business
✅ Searching for services in your area (even if they’re browsing from another place)
Example:
A Dubai-based spa can target people within a 10 km radius OR people searching for “spa in Dubai” from abroad.
Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up Local Campaigns 🚀
1️⃣ Choose Location Targeting Wisely 📍
When setting up your campaign:
✅ Go to “Locations”
✅ Select:
- Radius targeting (e.g., 10 km around your business)
- City/Region targeting
- OR add custom locations (like zip codes)
Pro Tip:
Use the “Presence” option (target people in your area) vs. “Presence or interest” (people searching about your area).
2️⃣ Add Location Extensions 📌
Location extensions show your address, map, and distance right in your ad.
✅ Link your Google Business Profile to enable this feature.
✅ It’s perfect for driving foot traffic!
3️⃣ Use Local Keywords 🔑
Example:
Instead of just “massage spa,” use:
✅ “Massage spa Dubai”
✅ “Massage near me Dubai”
✅ “Best spa in [your neighborhood]”
This helps your ad match local searches better.
4️⃣ Run Local Service Ads (If Available) 🛠️
In certain countries, Local Service Ads (LSAs) are available.
These show your business at the top with a Google Guaranteed badge—great for trust and visibility.
✅ Works well for home services (plumbers, cleaners, etc.).
5️⃣ Track Store Visits & Local Conversions 📊
Enable “Store Visit Conversions” in Google Ads (if eligible).
You’ll see how many people actually came to your store after clicking your ad.
Real-Life Example 🚀
Business: Local Coffee Shop in Abu Dhabi
Strategy:
✅ Ran ads targeting a 5 km radius
✅ Used keywords like “coffee shop near me” + location extensions
✅ Offered 20% discount for people clicking the ad
Result:
Foot traffic increased 38% within 4 weeks!
🧠 FAQs About Local Google Ads
1. What’s the best radius to target in Google Ads?
It depends! For urban areas, 5–10 km works well. In rural areas, you may need a wider radius.
2. Can I exclude locations within my radius?
Yes! Use “Location Exclusions” to avoid wasting budget on places you don’t serve.
3. How much should I budget for local Google Ads?
Local campaigns usually have lower CPCs. Start small (around $5–10/day) and scale based on performance.
4. Should I still run ads if I already rank well locally in organic search?
Yes! Paid ads + organic listings = double visibility and better chances of getting the click.
5. Do I need a Google Business Profile to run local ads?
No, but it’s highly recommended to enable location extensions and boost trust.
✨ Final Thoughts
Using Google Ads for local businesses is one of the fastest ways to get nearby customers through your door.
With smart targeting, irresistible offers, and clear calls-to-action, you’ll be top-of-mind for people ready to buy NOW. 🚀
Start local, think smart, and watch your business grow! 🎯
