Using Exact-Match Domains for Neighboring Towns

How to Set Up the Strategy Effectively

Overview

Exact-match domains for nearby towns can be a useful part of your SEO strategy—but only when paired with the right supporting elements. A domain by itself will not generate rankings. To see results, you must build a complete website around that domain and optimize it specifically for the target town.

What an Exact-Match Domain Can Do

When used correctly, an exact-match domain may help you earn organic rankings in the standard search result sections (above or below the map pack). This typically requires:

• A dedicated website built on that domain
  

• SEO content written for the neighboring town
  

• A focused SEO campaign targeting that area
  

What an Exact-Match Domain Cannot Do

An exact-match domain alone will not place your business in the Google Maps (local pack) results for a town where you do not have a physical address. Exceptions are rare and usually only occur in extremely low-competition markets.

Key Requirements for Success

To make this strategy effective, ensure the following:

• Build a full website on the exact-match domain
  

• Create unique, location-focused content
  

• Implement technical and on-page SEO
  

• Commit to ongoing SEO efforts for the target area
  

Summary

An exact-match domain can support your visibility for a neighboring town if—and only if—it’s backed by a complete, targeted SEO strategy. It cannot replace the need for a physical address when it comes to ranking in Google Maps, but it can still help you gain organic visibility elsewhere on the search results page.