AI SEO vs. local SEO: which does your business need?
Local SEO gets you into Google's map pack and local results. AI SEO gets you named in AI answers. Here's how they overlap and how to choose where to start.
By the AccordX team · Updated
The short answer
Most local businesses should start with local SEO, because Google search and maps still drive the bulk of local calls. Add AI SEO once your foundations are solid, or sooner if your customers already lean on AI assistants.
What each one targets
- Local SEO: the Google map pack, local organic results and map apps, for searches like "roofer near me".
- AI SEO: answers from ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, Copilot and Google's AI Overviews, for questions like "who's the most reliable roofer in my town?".
Where they overlap
Both depend on the same foundations: an accurate, complete Google Business Profile, consistent listings, a clear website with a page for each service, and a steady flow of genuine reviews. Work on any of these helps both channels.
Where they differ
Local SEO cares a lot about proximity, Google profile signals and map rankings across your service area. AI SEO cares more about how clearly and consistently you're described across many sources, and whether your pages directly answer the questions people ask assistants.
Measurement differs too. Local SEO is tracked with ranking grids, calls and website traffic. AI SEO is tracked by asking the assistants a fixed set of questions and recording whether and how you're mentioned.
How to decide
A quick rule of thumb:
- Not showing in the map pack for your main services? Start with local SEO.
- Ranking well on Google but never named by AI assistants? Add AI SEO.
- Customers mention finding you through ChatGPT or similar tools? Invest in both.