How to Rank for “Near Me” Searches

(Without Guessing What Google Wants)

How to rank for “near me” searches in Marietta is probably the most common question local business owners ask.

You know the scenario: someone pulls out their phone, types in “plumber near me” or “remodeling contractor near me,” and boom—Google shows a list.

You’re either on it… or you’re not.

Here’s the truth: Google doesn’t guess who to show.

It uses real signals to decide what local business deserves to be seen.

And if you’re not showing up for those “near me” searches, you’re losing money every single day.

Why “Near Me” Searches Matter for Local Businesses

Let’s cut the fluff:

• “Near me” searches have buyer intent.
• They’re happening on mobile.
• They convert fast.

Someone searching “roofer near me” isn’t researching. They need help now.

And if your business isn’t showing up? Google’s showing your competitors instead.

How to Rank for “Near Me” Searches in Marietta & Cobb County

Let’s walk through the actual playbook.

1. Google Business Profile Is Your MVP

You must have a fully optimized Google Business Profile:

• Correct name, address, and phone number (NAP)
• Service areas include Marietta, East Cobb, Smyrna, etc.
• Add business hours, website, and a keyword-rich description
• Post weekly with photos, updates, and offers
• Collect reviews—then respond to every one

This is non-negotiable.

2. Use Local Keywords That Match How People Search

People don’t type like robots. They type like this:

• “best roofer near me”
• “emergency plumber Marietta GA”
• “closet installer East Cobb”

Use those keywords on:

• Your Google Business Profile
• Your homepage
• Your service pages
• Your blog posts (like this one on how to write blogs that rank)

Need keyword help? Read this: Master Keyword Research for Local SEO

3. Local Directories Still Matter

Make sure you’re listed (accurately) on:

Consistency is key. Your business name, phone number, and address need to match everywhere.

More on that: Why Local Directories Still Matter

4. Make Your Website Load Fast on Mobile

If your site is slow or hard to use on mobile, forget about ranking.

Use this guide to fix that: Your Website Is Slow – Here’s How to Fix It

5. Add Location Pages (If You Serve More Than One Area)

Do you serve both Marietta and Kennesaw?

Create individual service area pages. Don’t lump them all together.

Example:

• /kitchen-remodeling-marietta-ga
• /kitchen-remodeling-kennesaw-ga

Each page should have:

• Unique content
• Testimonials from that area
• Driving directions or landmarks nearby

This tells Google exactly where you work.

6. Add FAQs Based on What Locals Ask

People ask things like:

• “How much does a deck cost in Marietta?”
• “Do I need a permit to remodel a bathroom in Cobb County?”

Put these FAQs right on your service pages or blogs.

Need a tool to help? Check out: Using AI for SEO

7. Bonus: Use Parasite SEO to Take Over Page 1

Not showing up on your site? Post content on platforms Google already trusts:

• Yelp
• LinkedIn
• Google Posts
• YouTube

This is called Parasite SEO and it works fast for “near me” searches.

Show Up When People Are Searching Nearby

If you’re not ranking for “near me” searches in Marietta and Cobb County, someone else is taking those leads.