Why Google Maps Still Beats AI for Local SEO – and How to Win in 2025

Let me start with a confession—I once spent half an afternoon asking three different AI chatbots the same question: 'Where can I get the best barbecue near me?' The answers? Hilariously generic, or worse, outdated. Meanwhile, my trusty Google Maps app was serving up a mouthwatering list, complete with photos and crowd-sourced reviews. That seemingly small moment crystallized something big: local search isn’t just about information, but about context and actual connections. AI is rewriting a lot of rules, but from what I've seen, it hasn’t cracked the code for truly local discovery. In this post, I'll share exactly why that is, what local SEO pros need to know in 2025, and how to seize these oddball shifts for your business.

AI’s Local Blind Spots: Why Chatbots Fumble Real-World Searches

Generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity have clear AI limitations when it comes to local SEO and real-world discovery. For example, searching “pizza near me” on these tools often returns vague lists without live maps, directions, or accurate context. Users rarely get actionable details like phone numbers or real-time business status, and results may include irrelevant or mislocated businesses. Unlike Google Maps, which integrates location, images, reviews, and call buttons, AI-generated results lack the visual and interactive features that drive local action. Most users won’t enter their own address, so generative AI local search struggles to deliver on urgent, location-based needs. As I’ve seen, local search is about more than information—it’s about solving immediate problems. As Rob Tindula puts it,

“Generative AI just can't beat Google Maps when it comes to finding the best taco spot in town.”

Don’t Ditch Your Local Listings: AI Depends on Them More Than Ever

Even as AI platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity grow, their local recommendations still rely on established sources—Google Business Profile, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Most AI-generated answers simply summarize top directory lists, pulling structured data like reviews, categories, and photos. That’s why keeping your Google Business Profile complete and accurate is more important than ever. Consistent local citations—your business name, address, and phone (NAP)—across all platforms reduce confusion for both users and algorithms. Rich media such as photos, menus, and FAQs boost your listing’s authority and appeal, making it more likely to be featured in AI responses. As Lily Ray notes,

“AI might try to automate recommendations, but it’s really just echoing what your directory presence already says.”

Actions, Not Clicks: The Unsung Reality of Local Search Intent

When users search locally, their intent goes far beyond reading web pages—they want to call, visit, or book immediately. Platforms like Google Maps excel here, offering direct actions like directions, call buttons, and reviews that generative AI simply can’t match. As I’ve seen, local search actions drive real-world behavior, not just clicks. In fact, research from Ahrefs shows that Google’s AI Overviews rarely appear for local queries, highlighting the dominance of classic platforms in meeting urgent needs. User behavior changes are clear: people want solutions nearby, not generic information. As I put it,

“When my roof started leaking, I didn’t want AI advice—I wanted the number for the nearest repair shop, stat.”

The Cross-Platform Challenge: Getting Found in a Fragmented Search Era

Today, people search for local businesses across dozens of platforms—apps, directories, review sites, and even AI engines. This fragmentation means Google is no longer the only gatekeeper. Search Everywhere Optimization is now essential for local SEO and local business marketing. AI tools scan multiple sources for business validation, including aggregators and niche industry directories, not just Google. If your brand data or reviews are missing or inconsistent on any platform, your local visibility suffers everywhere.

Uniform listings and fresh reviews across all channels help prevent misattribution and boost trust, while multi-platform presence insulates you from sudden search changes. As I often say,

'Visibility has gone from being a Google thing to being an everywhere thing. AI just raised the stakes.' – Rob Tindula

Four Hyper-Actionable Tactics for Winning Local SEO in 2025

To stay ahead with Local SEO Strategies 2025, I recommend four proven tactics. First, double down on mid- and bottom-funnel long-tail keywords—like “emergency plumber 24/7 Boston”—where AI tools rarely compete and buyers are ready to act. Next, verify consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) and hours across every profile; even small inconsistencies can hurt your visibility. Third, focus on Google Business Profile Optimization: complete every field, upload engaging photos, answer FAQs, and keep menus or services up to date. Finally, prioritize review monitoring and reputation management. Proactively request and respond to real user reviews—frequency and authenticity matter more than just star ratings. As I’ve seen firsthand, “I’ve seen businesses double their leads just by actively monitoring and managing their reviews. Authenticity really moves the needle.” Don’t overlook service area pages and niche directories—they’re magnets for AI tools and can drive targeted local traffic.

Wildcard: My Cautionary Encounter with a Pizza Paradox

Recently, I put three major AI tools to the test for a simple “pizza near me” search. Each failed in its own way—one suggested places in the wrong neighborhood, another listed outdated restaurants, and none provided current contact info or real-time updates. Frustrated, I turned to Google Maps and, within seconds, found a packed, top-rated spot just five minutes away. I had access to live hours, photos, reviews, and even saw how busy it was. This experience made it clear: verified local SEO and real-time data drive user decisions, especially when urgency or local events come into play. AI’s ‘best guess’ approach simply can’t match the accuracy or context of Google Maps. As user behavior changes, the need for dynamic, crowd-sourced information is only growing.

“That pizza quest proved one thing: I’ll take crowd-sourced info over chatbot wisdom any day.” – Rob Tindula