Ranking Position vs. Leads: Why Top 3 is Everything on Google

You’ve probably seen a ranking map from us before. We get asked all the time: “What’s really the difference between being #1 and #3? Or #5 vs. #8? Or even #9 vs. #20?”

The answer: everything. Your position on Google isn’t just a vanity metric—it directly determines how many leads you get. In this post, we’ll break down the data, show you how leads drop off by position, and explain why moving up even a few spots can double (or 10x) your customer flow.

The Math: Google Maps Ranking vs. Clicks

When people search for a local business on Google, most don’t scroll far. Research shows the top 3 results get the lion’s share of all clicks, while those at the bottom of the list are almost invisible.

Here’s what it looks like in practice:

That means if 100 people search for “med spa near me,” the business in the #1 spot will get about 30 calls or website visits, while the one in #8 gets just 3.

Why the Top 3 Positions Are Everything

Think about it: if you’re ranking #8 right now, and you move up to #1, you go from 3% to 30% of the clicks—that’s a 10x jump in leads.

Even if you’re already at #3 and move to #1, you still double your leads (15% → 30%). That’s the difference between your phone ringing a few times a day and being fully booked for weeks.

This is why SEO experts often talk about the “money positions” on Google Maps. Top 3 isn’t just better visibility—it’s the line between growth and stagnation.

Why This Happens (The Psychology of Search)

When people use Google Maps to find a service, they aren’t window-shopping. They’re ready to buy. And most trust Google’s top results as the “best” or most credible options.

• Top spots feel trustworthy. Customers assume #1 = best choice.
• Scrolling takes effort. People want quick answers, not a research project.
• Mobile bias. On small screens, the top 3 often fill the entire view.

This is why even one position change can have a massive impact. Moving from #4 to #3 doesn’t sound like much—but it’s a 50% jump in traffic (10% → 15%).

The Bottom Line: Ranking = Revenue

When you zoom out, the lesson is clear:

• Ranking position directly determines lead volume.
• Top 3 is where the customers are.
• Even small jumps (like #4 to #3) can mean thousands in extra revenue.

If your business is stuck outside the top 3, you’re leaving money on the table.