What is Google Pigeon Update?

Google Pigeon is a 2014 algorithm update that significantly improved local search results by better connecting Google’s core ranking signals with local search queries. This update strengthened the relationship between traditional organic ranking factors and local pack results, making location-based searches more accurate and relevant for users.

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What You Need to Know about Google Pigeon Update

Stronger Connection Between Local and Organic

The Pigeon update tied local search results more closely to traditional ranking factors like domain authority, quality content, and backlinks.

Distance and Location Became More Precise

This algorithm refined how Google calculated distance between the searcher’s location and businesses, improving relevance for “near me” and location-specific queries.

Directory and Review Sites Gained Visibility

Major directories like Yelp and TripAdvisor saw increased rankings because the update valued their strong domain authority and comprehensive business information.

Local Pack Results Became More Competitive

After Pigeon, appearing in local pack results required stronger overall SEO fundamentals, not just complete Google Business Profile listings.

Knowledge Graph Integration Improved

The update better integrated local business information with Google’s Knowledge Graph, creating richer search results with more detailed business data.

Traditional SEO Factors Matter for Local Rankings

Businesses discovered that domain authority, on-page optimization, and quality backlinks directly influenced their local search visibility after this update.

Frequently Asked Questions about Google Pigeon Update

1. How did Google Pigeon change local SEO strategy?

Pigeon made traditional SEO factors like content quality, backlinks, and domain authority essential for local rankings, not just proximity and Google Business Profile optimization.

2. Why did directory sites rank better after Pigeon?

Directory platforms like Yelp benefited from their strong domain authority and comprehensive business listings, which aligned with Pigeon’s emphasis on traditional ranking signals.

3. Does Google Pigeon still affect local search today?

Yes, the core principles from Pigeon remain active in Google’s local search algorithm, though subsequent updates have refined how these factors work together.

4. What’s the main difference between pre and post-Pigeon local results?

Before Pigeon, proximity and basic business information dominated local rankings. After Pigeon, comprehensive SEO strength became equally important for local visibility.

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Related Terms

Search Quality Rater Guidelines

Google’s internal documentation used to train human evaluators who assess search result quality and page quality criteria.

Search Quality Rater Guidelines

TF-IDF

TF-IDF evaluates word importance by comparing term frequency in a document against its rarity across all documents, helping search engines assess content relevance.

TF-IDF

Algorithm

Google’s ranking system that determines search result positions through hundreds of factors including content quality and site authority.

Algorithm

Primary Keyword

The main search term that defines what a webpage is about and what it should rank for in search results.

Primary Keyword

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