Google Maps 3-Pack for Plumbers: How to Get In and Stay There

The Google Maps 3-pack is the three business listings that appear at the top of local search results. When a homeowner searches “plumber near me,” these three businesses capture approximately 75% of all clicks on the page.

What Determines Maps 3-Pack Rankings?

Google uses three factors to determine local Maps rankings. Understanding all three is essential to improving your position.

Relevance

How well your GBP matches what the person is searching for — categories, services, and keywords in your description.

Distance

How far your business is from the searcher’s location. You can’t change distance, but you can expand your service area.

Prominence

How well-known and trusted your business is online — reviews, citations, backlinks, and website authority all contribute.

The 7 Most Impactful GBP Optimizations

Primary category must be “Plumber” — not a variation
Add all relevant secondary categories matching your services
Complete your services list with keyword-rich descriptions per service
Set your full service area — every city and neighborhood you serve
Add 10+ high-quality photos — team, vehicles, and completed jobs
Generate consistent new reviews — recency matters as much as quantity
Post weekly Google updates — keep your profile active

Why Your Proximity Isn’t Enough

Many plumbers assume that being geographically close to a searcher is enough to rank in the 3-pack. It isn’t. A competitor who is further away but has a fully optimized GBP, 50+ reviews, and consistent citations will outrank you despite being farther from the searcher.

Tracking Your Maps Rankings

Unlike regular Google rankings, Maps rankings vary by location — your business might be in the top 3 for searchers near your address but not for searchers across town. Use tools like BrightLocal or Local Falcon to see your Maps rankings across your full service area, not just from your business address.

Written By

Maria Santos

Plumber SEO specialist at PlumberRank. Helping plumbing businesses across the USA rank on Google, get into the Maps 3-pack, and generate consistent organic calls.