×

THATBlog

Denver Local SEO Strategies to Boost Your Rankings in 2025

Posted at Aug 11, 2025 10:30:00 AM by THAT Agency | Share

If you run a business in Denver, you already know how crowded the market can be. Whether you're a local contractor, retail shop, restaurant, or service provider, you’re competing with dozens, maybe hundreds, of other businesses trying to reach the same customers. That's where Denver local SEO comes in.

denver-local-seo

Here’s the good news: most of them aren’t doing local SEO well.

That means if you have a smart strategy, you can outrank them on Google, get found by the right people, and grow your business. In this guide, we’ll show you how to level up your Denver local SEO game in 2025, so you stand out in all the right places.

Why Local SEO Still Matters (Even More Than Before)

Search engines like Google have changed a lot in recent years. In 2025, more people are using AI-powered tools, voice search, and Google Maps to find what they need. When someone types, or says, “best HVAC company in Denver” or “coffee shop near me,” they’re not browsing. They’re ready to act.

If your business doesn’t show up in those results, you're missing out on easy wins.

That’s where Denver local SEO comes in. It's not about chasing random clicks, it's about showing up when your neighbors need you most.

1. Denver’s Search Game Is Changing – Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re a business owner in Denver trying to get found online, there’s something important you need to know: local search is changing, and fast.

In 2025, the way people use Google (and how Google shows results) looks very different from even just a year or two ago. This means that your digital strategy needs to keep up with what’s happening right now.

Understanding the benefits of local SEO for boosting your business visibility can help you see why this strategy is so crucial for Denver businesses competing in today's market.

So what’s changing, and how can your business keep showing up at the top of local search results? Let’s break it down.

What’s New in Local Search in 2025?

1. AI-Powered Search Is Taking Over

Google is now using more AI tools to answer people’s questions directly in the search results. You’ve probably seen this in action, when you search something like:

“What’s the best pizza spot in Denver with outdoor seating?”

You might see a box at the top of the results with a short answer pulled from a website, map listings, or even a review summary. This is called AI Overview or featured snippets, and it’s becoming more common every day.

What This Means for Your Business:

If your website content isn’t clear, helpful, and easy to understand, Google won’t choose it as a source for answers. You need to:

  • Use simple language to explain your services
  • Answer common customer questions directly on your site
  • Include helpful info like business hours, service areas, and prices

This increases your chance of being pulled into those featured sections, even if users don’t click your website, they’ll still see your business name and info.

2. Zero-Click Searches Are More Common

More and more people are finding what they need without clicking any website at all. They make a search, see answers or business info right in Google’s results, and make a decision from there.

For example:

“Barbershop near Capitol Hill Denver”

Google might show:

  • A map with nearby barbershops
  • Business names
  • Star ratings
  • Phone numbers
  • Open hours

If your business profile isn’t optimized, you won’t appear in these spots, even if you’re close by and open!

What This Means for You:

Your Google Business Profile is now just as important as your website (if not more). Make sure it’s:

  • Claimed and verified
  • Updated with correct hours, phone number, and website link
  • Filled with photos and service descriptions
  • Getting regular reviews from happy customers

Having a solid business profile helps you appear in Google’s “local pack” (the top 3 business listings in a search), which is where most users look first.

3. Voice Search Is Becoming the Norm

Let’s be honest, how many times have you asked your phone something like:

“Best tacos near me”
“Where’s a plumber in Denver open now?”
“Is there a dentist taking walk-ins in Cherry Creek?”

You’re not alone. Voice search is growing fast, especially among people on the go.

Why This Matters:

Voice searches are usually more conversational and longer than typed searches. Instead of “Denver dentist,” people say things like:

“Where’s the best dentist in Denver that takes new patients on weekends?”

To show up in these results, your content needs to match how people talk, not just how they type. This means:

  • Including long-tail keywords and full sentences
  • Writing FAQs that sound natural
  • Using phrases like “near downtown Denver” or “in the Highlands area” on your pages

This helps your business show up in voice search, and makes your site easier for both users and search engines to understand.

So... What Should a Denver Business Do in 2025?

If you want to stay ahead in local search, here are 4 simple actions you can take today:

  1. Review and update your Google Business Profile
    • Add photos, correct info, business categories, and service areas.
  2. Make your website super clear and helpful
    • Answer questions your customers ask often. Use headings like “How much does ___ cost in Denver?” or “What are your hours?”
  3. Use natural, local language in your content
    • Think like a customer. Write content that includes neighborhoods, landmarks, and real-world questions.
  4. Ask for reviews and respond to them
    • Reviews help build trust and boost your chances of showing up in search results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is local SEO still worth it in 2025? Absolutely. In fact, it’s more important than ever. With AI search and zero-click results becoming the norm, businesses that invest in local SEO will have a big advantage over those that don’t.

Do I still need a website if I have a Google Business Profile? Yes! Your website gives Google more info about your services, location, and authority. But the two work together. A strong profile + a helpful website = higher local rankings.

How can I get into the “local pack” on Google Maps? Optimize your profile, get good reviews, keep your info accurate, and post regular updates. Those are all signals Google uses to decide who gets into the top 3.

Adapt or Fall Behind

The way people search in Denver is changing. If your local SEO strategy hasn’t been updated in a while, now’s the time to rethink it. With more users relying on AI, voice, and mobile, your business needs to show up fast, clearly, and confidently.

2. Mastering Your Google Business Profile in 2025

If you want more customers to find your Denver business online, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the most powerful tools you have. Think of it like your digital storefront, it’s what people see first when they search for your services on Google or Google Maps.

In fact, for many users, your Google profile is your first impression. If it’s missing info, has outdated hours, or no photos, people are more likely to scroll past you, even if your business is great.

To dive deeper into specific tactics, check out these Google My Business optimizations to boost your local SEO and get the most out of your business profile.

Let’s break down exactly how to make your profile stand out and help your business rank higher in Denver’s competitive local search results.

What is a Google Business Profile?

Your Google Business Profile (formerly called Google My Business) is a free listing that appears when someone searches for your business or something related to your services in your area.

For example, if someone types “plumber near Capitol Hill Denver”, they’ll likely see a list of businesses with:

  • The business name
  • Address and phone number
  • Hours of operation
  • Reviews
  • Photos
  • A link to the website or directions

That’s all part of your Google Business Profile.

Why Does It Matter for Local SEO?

Having an accurate and complete Google Business Profile helps your business show up in what’s known as the Google Map Pack (the top three business listings shown with a map on local searches).

This is prime real estate in Google’s search results, and if your business is listed there, you're much more likely to get clicks, calls, and foot traffic.

How to Fully Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your profile work for you:

1. Check Your NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number)

Make sure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are accurate and match what’s listed on your website and other directories (like Yelp or Facebook). Google wants to see consistency.

What happens if my business info is different on other websites? Inconsistent information can hurt your rankings because Google won’t trust which version is correct. That’s why it’s important to keep everything the same everywhere.

2. Pick the Right Categories

Choose categories that accurately describe your business. Your primary category is the most important, but you can also add secondary categories.

For example:

  • Primary: “Dentist”
  • Secondary: “Cosmetic Dentist,” “Emergency Dental Service,” “Dental Implants Periodontist”

Can I just pick a bunch of categories to show up in more searches? Nope! You should only choose categories that are actually relevant to your services. Using the wrong ones can confuse Google and hurt your rankings.

3. Add High-Quality Photos

Photos are one of the first things people notice on your profile. They help build trust and show what your business is really like.

What to upload:

  • Exterior shots (so people can recognize your building)
  • Interior photos (clean, inviting spaces matter!)
  • Photos of your products or services
  • Team members in action
  • Before-and-after images (for service-based businesses)

Do photos really make a difference? Yes! Google says businesses with photos get more clicks, calls, and direction requests than those without. And they make your listing feel more “real.”

4. Write a Strong Business Description

Use this space to tell people who you are, what you do, and what makes your business special. Make it clear, friendly, and helpful, think of it like your quick elevator pitch.

Tips:

  • Include keywords people might search for (like “family dentist in Denver” or “24/7 HVAC repair”)
  • Mention your location or neighborhoods you serve
  • Keep it natural and avoid keyword stuffing

5. Add Business Hours, and Keep Them Updated

Make sure your hours are correct, especially during holidays or special events. If someone sees you’re open but calls and gets a voicemail, they’ll likely move on to the next business.

Pro tip: You can add “special hours” in advance for holidays or closures.

6. Post Regular Updates

You can post updates on your Google profile just like you would on social media. Share:

  • Promotions or sales
  • New products or services
  • Business milestones or events
  • Seasonal reminders (like “Book your HVAC check before winter”)

These posts keep your profile active and show Google (and your customers) that you’re engaged and reliable.

7. Collect and Respond to Reviews

Reviews play a big role in your local SEO ranking and your reputation.

Ask happy customers to leave a review, and always respond, whether it’s positive or negative. Thank them for kind words, and if it’s a complaint, reply professionally and offer to help.

How many reviews do I need to rank higher? There’s no magic number, but generally, more reviews + better ratings + consistent responses = better visibility. Focus on quality and frequency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using a fake business name or keyword stuffing it (example: “Denver’s #1 Roofing and Gutter Cleaning Experts Inc.”)
  • Listing a PO Box instead of a real address
  • Not verifying your listing
  • Ignoring negative reviews
  • Leaving your profile untouched for months

At THAT Agency, we help Denver businesses go beyond the basics. We don’t just claim your Google Business Profile, we fully optimize it to increase visibility, clicks, and conversions.

Don’t Overlook Your Google Profile

In 2025, your Google Business Profile could easily be the first and only thing a potential customer sees about your business. That’s why it needs to be accurate, complete, and full of helpful info.

When you take the time to set it up correctly, and keep it updated, you’ll be rewarded with higher rankings, more traffic, and more leads.

3. Location Pages That Actually Work

If your business serves multiple neighborhoods or nearby cities around Denver, like Lakewood, Aurora, Englewood, or Cherry Creek, you need to tell Google (and your customers) exactly where you operate.

But here’s the thing: you can’t just copy and paste the same page and change the city name. That’s a common mistake that actually hurts your search rankings.

Why Do I Need a Separate Page for Each Location?

Each area has its own audience, local landmarks, and search behavior. For example:

  • Someone in Cherry Creek might search for a “high-end salon near Cherry Creek Shopping Center.”
  • While someone in Aurora may search for a “24/7 emergency vet in Aurora, CO.”

If you try to cover all locations on one generic page, you’ll miss out on being found in location-specific searches.

What Makes a Location Page Effective?

Here’s what a good local page should include:

  • Local keywords like “tax accountant in Lakewood” or “HVAC repair near Denver Tech Center”
  • Unique service descriptions that reflect what you offer in that area
  • Driving directions from popular landmarks or highways
  • Customer reviews from local clients in that area
  • Location-specific contact info (address, phone number, business hours)

Can I just use one page and list all my locations there? You can, but it’s not ideal. Google ranks pages based on relevance. Dedicated location pages rank better for neighborhood searches, and they help users find the exact info they need, fast.

4. Keyword Research for Local SEO Denver

Let’s talk about one of the most important parts of local SEO: keywords. 

What Are Keywords, and Why Do They Matter?

Keywords are the words and phrases people type (or speak) into Google when they’re searching for something. In the world of local SEO Denver, these are the phrases that help people in your area find your business.

For example:

  • “Best dentist in Capitol Hill Denver”
  • “Marketing agency for small businesses in Denver”
  • “Family-friendly restaurants near Union Station”

Why Basic Keywords Aren’t Enough in 2025

Most businesses focus only on simple, high-competition keywords like:

  • “Denver plumber”
  • “Coffee shop near me”
  • “SEO agency Denver”

While those are still useful, in 2025, people are searching in longer phrases, questions, and natural language. Thanks to voice assistants (like Siri and Google Assistant) and AI-powered search tools, users are asking more detailed and specific questions than ever before.

What’s a long-tail keyword? Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases people search for, like “affordable orthodontist in Denver for teens” instead of just “Denver orthodontist.”

These long-tail searches often have lower competition and higher intent, meaning the people searching are more likely to become actual customers.

How THAT Agency Does Keyword Research the Smart Way

We use advanced SEO tools (like Semrush and Google’s Keyword Planner) to:

  • Find keywords your competitors aren’t targeting yet
  • Discover hidden opportunities tied to neighborhoods, services, and niche markets
  • Match keyword strategy with your customer’s search behavior

For example, instead of just going after “Denver marketing agency,” we might also target:

  • “Digital marketing agency for restaurants in Denver”
  • “SEO experts for real estate companies in Denver CO”
  • “PPC services in the Denver Highlands area”

This helps your business appear in more specific searches, attracting better leads who are already looking for exactly what you offer.

As search continues to evolve, it's important to stay current with best practices. These tips from an SEO consultant on how to optimize your website for 2025 can help ensure your Denver business stays competitive.

5. Build Real Local Authority with Links

If Google sees that other websites trust and mention your business, it boosts your credibility. These mentions, also called backlinks, are a huge part of how Google decides who ranks on the first page.

But not all links are created equal.

What Are Backlinks?

Backlinks are simply links from other websites to your site. Think of them like digital recommendations. If trusted, local sources are linking to you, Google takes that as a sign your business is legitimate and worth showing to searchers.

Can I just buy a bunch of backlinks to boost my rankings? Buying backlinks or using spammy directories can actually hurt your SEO. Google is smart, it looks for quality over quantity. Real, local links matter most.

Where Should You Get Local Backlinks?

Here are some great places to earn meaningful, local links in Denver:

  • Local news websites (e.g., a news story about your business or event sponsorship)

  • Chamber of Commerce listings and other business groups

  • Community blogs and event sites (especially if you host or sponsor something)

  • Partnerships with other local businesses

  • Local awards or business directories (think “Best of Denver” lists)

The goal is to build relationships and contribute to the Denver business community, not just chase links.

6. Keep Your Business Info Consistent

If your business has different names, addresses, or phone numbers listed online, Google gets confused, and you won’t rank well.

Make sure your information is exactly the same on:

  • Google Business Profile
  • Yelp
  • Facebook
  • Yellow Pages
  • Industry-specific directories

We use tools to clean up listings across the web and keep everything accurate, so your Denver local SEO stays strong.

7. Get and Manage Reviews Like a Pro

Online reviews aren’t just helpful for potential customers, they’re a key ranking factor in Google’s algorithm.

Want to stand out? Follow these steps:

  • Ask every happy customer to leave a review.
  • Make it easy by sending a direct link to your Google page.
  • Respond to all reviews, yes, even the bad ones.

We work with clients to create review strategies that boost reputation and rankings.

8. Measure What Really Matters

Too many businesses focus only on keyword rankings. But what good is ranking #1 if no one clicks, calls, or books?

We track things like:

  • Map pack visibility
  • Click-through rates
  • Website visits from local searches
  • Calls and contact form submissions

Then we use that data to improve your strategy every month. No guesswork, just results.

9. Why THAT Agency?

Let’s be real: there are lots of agencies out there. So why choose us?

We do more than basic SEO. We:

  • Dig into your competition
  • Find keyword and link opportunities others miss
  • Customize your strategy based on your industry and goals
  • Combine local SEO with content, paid ads, and conversion tools for full-funnel growth

And because we’re based here in Denver, we get your market.

Ready to Win Local Search in 2025?

Getting found online in Denver isn’t about luck, it’s about having the right local SEO strategy. With competition heating up and Google evolving fast, there’s no time to waste.

Let THAT Agency help you rank higher, attract better leads, and grow your business in 2025.

Click here to explore our Local SEO services or contact us today to get a free consultation and take the first step toward dominating Denver search.



Tags: Local SEO Experts, seo experts colorado, denver local seo, seo company denver, local seo services denver, denver digital marketing, denver seo strategy

RECENT POSTS
Best Practices for Digital Marketing in 2022: FREE GUIDE