So, you want to know how many Google reviews your business should have to stay ahead in the game? Well, buckle up because we’ve got the numbers that could just change your approach to local SEO.
Key Findings
On average, local businesses hold about 39 Google reviews.
A whopping 74% of local businesses have at least one Google review.
Those businesses sitting pretty in Google’s top 3 local positions average 47 Google reviews.
The hospitality industry—think bars, restaurants, and hotels—leads the charge when it comes to garnering reviews, while accountants lag behind.
The average star rating across local businesses? A solid 4.42 stars. However, senior living services, car dealerships, and hotels have the lowest star ratings.
Only 5% of businesses find themselves below a 3-star average, while a remarkable 61% boast ratings between 4 and 5 stars.
It’s clear: review signals are not just fluff; they’re vital for local SEO rankings. Google loves trustworthy businesses, and positive reviews are a key component in determining who gets the top spots. With Google reviews taking the lead as the fastest-growing platform for feedback, understanding their impact is essential for any local business.
The Numbers Speak
Our study analyzed the Google reviews profiles of over 93,000 local businesses across 26 different industries. We dove deep into:
Which industries are excelling (or struggling) with Google My Business reviews.
The average number of reviews businesses in each sector possess.
The correlation between the number of reviews and local search rankings.
Why does this matter? Because if you’re not measuring up, it might be time to rethink your strategy.
How Many Reviews Do You Need?
Across the board, local businesses average 39 reviews. But what’s really interesting is the expectation set by consumers. Our research shows that most consumers expect a business to have 40 reviews before they trust its star rating. So, if you’re sitting below that mark, you might need to kick your review-gathering game into high gear.
The hospitality sector is particularly review-happy. With more options available, these businesses are asking for feedback more frequently. On the flip side, industries like finance and accounting, which people engage with less often, see lower review numbers.
What About Star Ratings?
When it comes to star ratings, here's the scoop:
Photographers and alternative therapy businesses boast the highest average star ratings.
Overall, businesses are faring well, with the majority hitting over 4 stars. But some, like car dealerships and hotels, are stuck with lower ratings, often due to extreme feedback—either great or terrible—leaving little room for the middle ground.
The Path to the Top
For those businesses eyeing the top positions on Google, there's a direct correlation between the number of reviews and higher local rankings. Those in the top 3 spots average 47 reviews, while those in positions 7-10 lag behind with an average of 38 reviews.
And let’s not forget the role of star ratings. Businesses that occupy the top-ranking spots also tend to have higher star ratings. This is no coincidence; higher ratings often lead to more clicks, and in the digital marketing arena, more clicks can mean more customers.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this dive into the Google reviews landscape, it’s clear that local businesses can’t afford to ignore the power of customer feedback. With review signals becoming increasingly crucial in local SEO, businesses must prioritize gathering and responding to reviews.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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