Question 1

What is Local SEO?

Accepted Answer

Local SEO is the process of optimizing your online presence so your business appears in search results when nearby customers look for your service. It covers Google Business Profile optimization, local citations, reviews, local content, and technical website performance. The goal is to appear in the Google map pack for searches relevant to your business in your local area. See our full FAQs for more common questions.

Question 2

How long does Local SEO take to show results?

Accepted Answer

Most Local SEO campaigns show noticeable improvement within two to four months for less competitive markets. Highly competitive industries like law, healthcare, and real estate in Mobile may take four to six months to see significant movement. Results compound over time, meaning a campaign at 12 months consistently outperforms the same campaign at three months.

Question 3

How much does Local SEO cost in Mobile, AL?

Accepted Answer

Local SEO for Mobile businesses typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 per month depending on your industry, the number of locations you serve, and the level of competition in your market. See our full breakdown of SEO pricing in 2026 for more detail. The best starting point is a free audit that identifies your current gaps and gives you a realistic picture of what your specific situation requires.

Question 4

Is Google Business Profile free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Google Business Profile is completely free to create and manage. However, optimizing it properly, maintaining it consistently, managing reviews, and integrating it into a broader local SEO strategy requires time and expertise. Most businesses see the best results by working with a local SEO agency rather than managing it in-house alongside running their business.

Question 5

How important are citations for Local SEO?

Accepted Answer

Citations are a foundational local SEO signal. Consistent mentions of your business name, address, and phone number across reputable directories verify your business's legitimacy to Google and strengthen your local ranking authority. Inaccurate or inconsistent citations actively hurt your rankings. Both the quantity and the accuracy of your citations matter.

Question 6

How many Google reviews do I need?

Accepted Answer

There is no magic number, but more recent reviews with a high average rating consistently outperform competitors with fewer or older ones. A good starting goal is 25 to 50 reviews with an average above 4.0 stars. More importantly, keep collecting them steadily. A business with 10 new reviews this month is more competitive than one with 200 reviews from two years ago and nothing recent.

Question 7

Can Local SEO help service-area businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Service-area businesses, like plumbers, electricians, landscapers, and home care providers, that do not have a customer-facing physical location can still appear in local search results. Google Business Profiles allow service-area businesses to list their service areas rather than a specific address. Local content, citations, and reviews all still apply and still drive leads for these business types.

Question 8

What is the difference between Local SEO and traditional SEO?

Accepted Answer

Traditional SEO targets rankings in search results without a geographic focus. Local SEO specifically targets searches with location intent, including near me searches and searches that include a city or neighborhood name. Local SEO also involves the Google map pack, Google Business Profile, and local citation signals that do not apply in traditional organic SEO. Most local businesses need both, with local SEO as the primary priority.

Alpha Digital SEO

Local SEO for Mobile, AL: The Complete 2026 Strategy Guide

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