Google Maps rank maps explained
A rank map (sometimes called a geo-grid) checks where your business appears on Google Maps from many points across your area at once. It answers the question a single search can't: where do customers actually see you?
By Ranjit Shah, Founder, Flexi LocalEvery outside claim is linked to its source · How we write our guides
How to read it
- Green points: you're in the top three, where most calls come from.
- Orange points: 4 to 10, visible but easy to miss.
- Red points: 11 and below, effectively invisible.
Alongside the colours you'll see your average rank, how many points are in the top three and top ten, your strongest and weakest direction, and which competitors rank above you at each point.
Why a 5 × 5 grid has 91 points
Our grids place points in rings around your business rather than a square. A “5 × 5” grid has 1 point in the middle and rings of 6, 12, 18, 24 and 30 points around it, giving 91 checks at the same radius. More points means a more detailed picture, not a wider area.
Comparing months fairly
- Use the same keywords, the same radius and the same points every time.
- Write down what you changed and when, such as new reviews, profile edits or a new page.
- Re-check on a fixed schedule.
- Look at calls, direction requests and website clicks alongside the map before deciding what worked.
Tip: Moving from 18 to 27 top-three points is a real improvement in visibility. It isn't nine new customers, so check your calls and bookings too.
What a rank map doesn't show
- Your website's position in normal search results. That's a separate measure.
- Exactly what every individual sees. Personal search history can change results.
- Anything below the top 20, which shows simply as 20+.
