Topical Maps for Local SEO: Rank in Your City
Local businesses can dominate search results by building topical authority in their geographic area. Learn how to create location-specific topical maps that drive local traffic.
Why Local Businesses Need Topical Maps
Most local businesses think SEO is just about Google Business Profile and getting reviews. While those matter, local content strategy is what separates businesses that dominate local search from those that don't.
A topical map for local SEO combines industry expertise with location-specific content. You're not just a plumber—you're THE plumber resource for your city.
Local Topical Authority Formula
Industry Expertise + Location Relevance = Local Topical Authority
Building a Local Topical Map
Layer 1: Industry Topics
Start with your core service areas. For a plumber, this might include:
- • Drain cleaning and repair
- • Water heater services
- • Pipe repair and replacement
- • Emergency plumbing
- • Bathroom and kitchen plumbing
Layer 2: Location Modifiers
Add location specificity to each topic:
- • City name + service
- • Neighborhood + service
- • "Near me" variations
- • Local area problems (e.g., "hard water in [city]")
Layer 3: Local-Specific Content
Content that only applies to your area:
- • Local regulations and permits
- • Weather-related issues specific to your region
- • Common problems in local housing types
- • Local utility company information
Content Types for Local Topical Maps
"Water Heater Repair in [City]"
"Plumber in [Neighborhood]"
"How to Winterize Pipes in [City]"
"[City] Water Quality Guide"
Free Topical Map Template
Get our Google Sheets template + SEO checklist. Used by 2,500+ creators.
Local SEO Content Strategy
1. Create City-Level Pillar Pages
Comprehensive guides for your main service in your primary city. These become the hub for all related content.
2. Build Neighborhood Pages
Create pages for each neighborhood or suburb you serve. Link these to your city pillar pages.
3. Add Local Problem-Solution Content
Blog posts addressing issues specific to your area (old pipes in historic districts, seasonal issues, etc.)
4. Include Local Schema Markup
Add LocalBusiness schema to all pages with your address, service area, and business information.
Example: Local Plumber Topical Map
Sample Cluster: Water Heater Services in Austin, TX
- Pillar: Water Heater Repair & Installation Austin TX
- Supporting: Tankless Water Heater Austin
- Supporting: Water Heater Cost Austin (with local pricing)
- Supporting: Austin Water Heater Regulations
- Supporting: Best Water Heaters for Austin Hard Water
- Supporting: Emergency Water Heater Repair Austin
- Local: Austin Energy Rebates for Water Heaters
Dominate Your Local Market
Create a topical map for your industry, then localize it for your service area.
Create Your Topical Map