How Many Categories Does Your Google Business Profile Need?
If you’ve ever set up a Google Business Profile (GBP), you’ve probably seen the official advice: “Choose the fewest number of categories it takes to describe your overall core business.”
We’re here to say, that’s not always the best move.
Here’s why adding more categories can actually boost your local search rankings, especially for those niche services you want to be found for.
Why You Should Use More Categories
Your GBP allows up to 10 categories. That’s 10 opportunities to tell Google exactly what you do—and to show up in more relevant searches.
Let’s say you’re a dentist. While “Dentist” might be your primary category, there are many other services you offer that fall under different categories like:
- Cosmetic Dentist
- Teeth Whitening Service
- Oral Surgeon
- Dental Clinic
If you only choose “Dentist,” you’re limiting your visibility for all those niche services people are actively searching for.
Case Study: A Landscaper Who Expanded Their Reach
We recently worked with a landscaping business that had only selected “Landscaper” as their category.
Seems logical, right? But here’s what happened when we added:
- Landscape Designer
- Landscape Architect
- Retaining Wall Supplier
They immediately started ranking higher for keywords like “landscape architect” and “landscape designer”—terms that aligned perfectly with their services but weren’t visible before.
The Bottom Line
More categories = more visibility.
If your business offers a wide range of services, don’t stop at just one or two categories. Use all 10 if they’re relevant. Each one is a chance to show up for the services you actually provide.