Adding a Google Map to WordPress does more than just tell visitors where you are located. It's a great way to enhance your website's functionality and boost local SEO. But it's not always easy to add Google Maps to your WordPress site. From plugins to embed codes, we explain how to add Google Maps to WordPress, why it’s important, and how it can positively impact search engine optimization strategy. These Google Map WordPress tips will boost user engagement, make it easier to find your location and help improve your SEO.
How to Embed Google Maps in WordPress
Adding a Google Map to WordPress can be a little tricky. Since there is no native WordPress block for Google Maps, you have to embed the map code as HTML, use a third-party plugin tool, or use a third-party block.
While these might seem overly technical, they are all relatively easy for even novice WordPress users to use. Here are the three best ways to add Google Maps to WordPress.
Use the Google Maps Embed Code
In most cases, the best way to embed Google Maps in WordPress is by using the embed code provided directly by Google Maps.
-
Go to Google Maps and search for your business address
-
Hit the Share button in your business listing
-
Hit Embed a map, then customize the size if you want
-
Hit Copy Code to copy the Google Maps embed code
-
Go to your WordPress Site and edit the page, post, or template where you want to include the map
-
If you are using the WordPress Block Editor, choose a Custom HTML block
-
If you are using the WordPress Classic Editor, switch to the Text View
-
Paste the embed code
-
Update or publish the page, post, or template to save the changes and display the map on your site
Use a WordPress Plugin
For more advanced options, such as multiple maps or custom styling, a WordPress plugin is a better option for embedding a Google Map. However, there are many different options available. Consider your choice carefully based on your needs, costs, and the features and flexibility of the plugin.
Some popular map plugins include WP Google Maps, Maps Widget for Google Maps, and Google Maps Easy. Once you choose a plugin, you need to Install and Activate it in WordPress. Then you can add your map to WordPress using the plugin.
Some plugins use the address of your location or the link to your Google My Business page. However, others use your Google Maps API key. You can generate an API key in your Google Cloud Console.
Adding the Google Map to WordPress varies from plugin to plugin, but most allow you to easily select and add the map like any other widget or block.
Add with Custom Blocks or Website Builders
Another option for adding Google Maps to WordPress is to use custom blocks or website builders. For example, Kadence Blocks includes a custom Google Maps block that allows you to quickly and easily add your location to WordPress. Website builders like SeedProd and Elementor have custom blocks or widgets that also allow you to add Google Maps.
Adding your map to your WordPress will vary by tool, but most follow as similar process as using a plugin. Enter your address, business listing, or API key and the block will automatically display the map on your site.
Why Embedding Google Maps is Important
Embedding Google Maps in WordPress instead of simply listing your address offers several advantages, both for user experience and functionality. Here's why you should consider embedding a map:
Improved User Experience
The biggest reason to add a Google Map to WordPress is that improves the user experience. Users can zoom, pan, and switch between map and satellite views, making it easier to understand your location.
Embedded Google Maps often include options for users to get directions directly from the map, saving them the trouble of manually entering the address into another app. Google Maps provides users with extra information such as business hours, photos, reviews, and contact details, all in one place.
Users can view the surroundings of your location, helping them recognize it when they arrive. You can even create custom maps to highlight nearby landmarks, parking areas, or specific points of interest that make finding your location easier.
Plus, Google Maps is widely recognized and trusted, making it a user-friendly tool for finding locations.
Mobile-Friendly
Another reason to embed a map it that it's mobile-friendly. It allows users to open the location in their Google Maps app with a single tap, enabling easy navigation. Most embedding options adjust automatically to screen sizes, ensuring a seamless experience on mobile and desktop devices.
Visual Appeal
WordPress Google Maps tools add a polished and modern touch to your website compared to plain text. They add visual appeal to the page, making your site look more professional with a simple embed code, plugin, or content block.
Builds Trust
Displaying your location on a trusted platform like Google Maps in WordPress signals to visitors that your business is legitimate and established. Even if you sell direct through your website, seeing a precise, interactive location can make customers more confident about buying from you or using your services.
SEO Benefits
Lastly, but certainly not lead, embedding a Google Map in WordPress can help boost your local search engine rankings. When combined with a properly optimized Google My Business profile, it can make your site more discoverable to nearby customers. Embedded maps can contribute to the structured data on your site, improving visibility in search results.
-
Enhances Local Search Signals: A map signals to search engines that your website is highly relevant to users searching for services or businesses in your specific area.
-
Improves Consistency with Google My Business (GMB): Embedding a Google Map tied to your GMB listing ensures consistency in your location information, a critical factor for local SEO.
-
Lowers Bounce Rates: An embedded map can keep users on your site longer, positively influencing behavioral metrics that search engines consider for rankings.
-
Boosts Visibility in Local Pack Results: Google often shows "local packs" (a map with top business listings) for location-based queries. Having a strong connection between your website, GMB profile, and an embedded Google Map can improve your chances of appearing in these packs.
-
Builds Trust and Credibility: Including a Google Map reinforces that your business has a physical location, helping to build trust with search engines and users.
-
Drives Traffic Through "Near Me" Searches: Many users search for businesses using "near me" queries. An embedded map signals your physical presence, increasing the likelihood of appearing in these searches.
-
**Supports Mobile SEO:**Many local searches are done on mobile devices. An embedded map ensures mobile users can easily locate your business and access navigation, contributing to mobile-friendly SEO signals.
Best Practices for Using Google Maps for Local SEO
Embedding Google Maps in your WordPress site is more than a convenience for users—it’s a strategic tool for improving your local SEO. Whether you use a simple embed code, a plugin, a custom block, or a website builder, integrating Google Maps into your site is an investment in both functionality and search visibility.
-
Embed Maps Linked to Your GMB Listing: This reinforces your GMB profile and provides accurate details for users.
-
Use Schema Markup: Add structured data to highlight your business information and location.
-
Ensure NAP Consistency: Your Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) should match exactly between your website, GMB listing, and other online directories.
-
Optimize Your GMB Profile: Fill out all available fields, including photos, business hours, and categories.
-
Local Keywords: Incorporate local keywords (e.g., city or neighborhood names) into your website content.
By embedding Google Maps and following these best practices, your site can rank better in local searches, attract more local customers, and improve overall user experience.
Get Affordable WordPress Hosting Today
Take your site to the next level with Hosting.com's affordable Managed WordPress Hosting. Enjoy blazing-fast performance and premium hardware, all backed by our 99.9% uptime commitment, no-risk money-back guarantee, and 24/7/365 in-house support. Not sure WordPress is the right choice? We support virtually all content management systems. Compare hosting plans now for the best fit for your website.
