Guide · 18 min read · Updated October 2026
600+ Free Google Business Profile Categories List 2026
What are business categories on Google?
Google Business Profile categories are the fixed labels Google uses to decide what your business is and which searches it can show up for. You pick one primary category and can add up to 9 additional ones, all from Google's own list. Below is a free Google Business Profile categories list of 600 real categories, grouped by industry, with a primary pick and pairing ideas for each.
The category field is the one to check first on any profile, because it is the one owners guess at most. It is common to find plumbers listed only as "Contractor" and AC companies with ten categories, half of which have nothing to do with the work they do.
This list comes from the same data that powers our free free GBP category finder. Every name in the tables matches the exact wording in that file, so you can copy it straight into your profile. If you want to search all 4,000+ categories instead of scrolling, use the tool. If you want to understand how to choose, keep reading.
Key takeaways
- Your primary category matters most. Pick the one that finishes the sentence "This business IS a...", never "This business HAS a...".
- Google allows 1 primary category and up to 9 additional categories. Use as few as describe your core business, not all ten.
- You cannot create your own category. If the exact one is missing, Google says to pick the next closest general category.
- Changing or adding a category can trigger a new verification, so plan changes and do not test categories every week.
- Check what the top three local competitors use before you choose. The Google Business category finder online suggests a primary and secondary set for any service.
What are business categories on Google?
Business categories on Google are preset labels, like "Plumber" or "Dentist", that tell Google what your business is. They come from a fixed list that Google controls. Your primary category has the most influence on which map searches you appear in, and it also shapes the features your profile shows, such as menus, bookings or service lists.
Think of a category as the answer to one question Google keeps asking: what kind of place is this? Your business name, website and reviews all help answer it. But the category is the only field where you answer it directly, in Google's own words.
That is why categories carry so much weight in local search. Local SEO tools such as BrightLocal and Whitespark have run ranking factor surveys for years, and the primary category keeps landing at or near the top. Treat it that way. If the primary category is wrong, nothing else on the profile can fully fix it.
Primary category vs additional categories
| Primary category | Additional categories | |
|---|---|---|
| How many | Exactly 1 | Up to 9 |
| What it describes | The core business | Real departments or extra services |
| Ranking weight | Highest | Lower, but still helps for related searches |
| Shown publicly | Yes, under your business name | Not shown on the main profile card |
| Changes features | Yes, adds category specific fields | Some, such as extra service options |
Google states the rules plainly in its help article on how to choose a business category: pick a primary category that best describes the business, use additional categories for special departments or services, and do not select a category for every product you sell.
Find your best GBP categories in seconds
Search more than 4,000 Google Business Profile categories by service. Get a suggested primary category, up to 9 additional ones, gcid IDs and a CSV export. Free, no sign up.
How many secondary categories can a Google Business Profile have?
A Google Business Profile can have one primary category and up to 9 additional categories, so 10 in total. Google confirms the limit of 9 additional categories in its bulk upload instructions. But the limit is not a target. Google tells you to use as few categories as possible to describe your core business.
Here is the honest rule of thumb. Most local service businesses do best with one primary category and two to five additional ones. A plumber might use Plumber as primary, then Drainage service and Water treatment supplier if they truly sell softeners. That is it.
More categories do not mean more rankings. A profile that lists ten loosely related categories sends a blurry signal. It can also trip a manual review, and Google's guidelines for representing your business say not to use categories as keywords or to describe attributes.
A quick rule of thumb
- One location, one service: 1 primary, 1 to 2 additional.
- Full service trade company: 1 primary, 3 to 5 additional.
- Multi department business, like a car dealer with a service center: 1 primary, up to 9 additional, each one a real department.
How do I choose the right primary category?
Choose the most specific category that describes what your business is, not what it has. Google's own test is to finish the sentence "This business IS a..." So a dental office is a Dentist, not a Dental supply store. If no specific category fits, Google says to pick a more general one, because you cannot create your own.
Google gives a clear example in its guidelines. Wendy's should use Fast food restaurant or Hamburger restaurant. It should not use Dessert restaurant, even though it sells desserts. The business IS a burger place. It HAS desserts.
- Start with money. Which single service brings in the most revenue or the most calls? That is your primary candidate.
- Search for the specific version. "Personal injury attorney" beats "Lawyer" for an injury firm. "HVAC contractor" beats "Contractor" for a heating and cooling company.
- Check the map pack. Search your main keyword plus your city. If the top three all use the same primary category, that is strong evidence of what Google expects.
- Avoid the broad catch all. "Contractor" and "Store" work only when nothing more specific exists.
How should I pick secondary (additional) categories?
Add an additional category only for a service you actively sell, advertise and can prove on your website. Each one should match a real department or a core service, not a single product. Good additional categories widen the searches you can appear for without blurring what the business mainly is.
The "Pair with" column in every table below gives you starting ideas taken from the same category data. Treat them as ideas, not orders. A roofer who never touches gutters should not add Gutter service just because the table suggests it.
Three tests to run on each secondary category
- The website test. Do you have a page about this service? If not, build one or skip the category.
- The phone test. If someone calls asking for it, can you say yes today?
- The redundancy test. Is it already covered by a more specific category you picked? Google says you can skip redundant ones.
Pairing your categories with matching service pages pays off twice. Google sees the category and the content agree. If you need city or ZIP pages to support those services, the Service Area Page Planner maps them out, and the Service Area ZIP Finder lists the ZIP codes inside your radius.
Google Business Profile categories list: home services and trades
This first part of the Google Business Profile categories list covers home services, contractors, HVAC and plumbing. These are the categories most often set wrong, because many trades have a broad option and a specific one. Always pick the specific category when it matches the work, such as Roofing contractor instead of Contractor.
Home services and contractors categories (82)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| General contractor | Full build and renovation firms | Construction company, Remodeler |
| Remodeler | Kitchen, bath and whole home remodels | Kitchen remodeler, Bathroom remodeler |
| Kitchen remodeler | Kitchen only remodel companies | Cabinet maker, Countertop contractor |
| Bathroom remodeler | Bath and shower remodel shops | Tile contractor, Plumber |
| Handyman/Handywoman/Handyperson | Small repair jobs around the house | Carpenter, Painter |
| Construction company | Commercial and new build firms | General contractor, Building firm |
| Home builder | New home construction | Custom home builder, General contractor |
| Custom home builder | One off luxury builds | Home builder, Architect |
| Roofing contractor | Roof repair and replacement | Gutter service, Siding contractor |
| Siding contractor | Siding install and repair | Roofing contractor, Window installation service |
| Gutter service | Gutter install and repair | Gutter cleaning service, Roofing contractor |
| Gutter cleaning service | Gutter cleaning only | Window cleaning service, Pressure washing service |
| Painter | Interior and exterior painting | Dry wall contractor, Wallpaper installer |
| Dry wall contractor | Drywall hanging and repair | Painter, Insulation contractor |
| Insulation contractor | Attic and wall insulation | Energy equipment and solutions, Dry wall contractor |
| Flooring contractor | Floor install of any type | Wood floor installation service, Tile contractor |
| Flooring store | Floor showrooms that also install | Carpet store, Flooring contractor |
| Carpet installer | Carpet install crews | Carpet store, Flooring contractor |
| Tile contractor | Tile and stone install | Bathroom remodeler, Flooring contractor |
| Concrete contractor | Driveways, slabs and patios | Masonry contractor, Paving contractor |
| Masonry contractor | Brick, block and stone work | Concrete contractor, Chimney sweep |
| Paving contractor | Paving and parking lots | Asphalt contractor, Concrete contractor |
| Asphalt contractor | Asphalt driveways and repair | Paving contractor, Excavating contractor |
| Excavating contractor | Digging, grading and site prep | Demolition contractor, Septic system service |
| Demolition contractor | Tear downs and interior demo | Excavating contractor, Dumpster rental service |
| Fence contractor | Fence install and repair | Deck builder |
| Deck builder | Decks and porches | Fence contractor, Carpenter |
| Carpenter | Trim, framing and custom wood | Cabinet maker, Handyman/Handywoman/Handyperson |
| Cabinet maker | Custom cabinets | Kitchen remodeler, Woodworker |
| Countertop contractor | Counter fabrication and install | Kitchen remodeler, Granite supplier |
| Window installation service | Window replacement | Door supplier, Glass repair service |
| Glass repair service | Window and glass repair | Window installation service, Glass & mirror shop |
| Garage door supplier | Garage door sales and install | Garage builder, Door supplier |
| Door supplier | Door sales and install | Window installation service, Garage door supplier |
| Locksmith | Lockouts, rekeys and lock installs | Key duplication service, Safe & vault shop |
| Waterproofing service | Basement and foundation waterproofing | Foundation |
| Water damage restoration service | Flood and leak cleanup | Fire damage restoration service |
| Fire damage restoration service | Fire and smoke cleanup | Water damage restoration service, Building restoration service |
| Chimney sweep | Chimney cleaning and inspection | Chimney services, Masonry contractor |
| Solar energy company | Solar panel installs | Solar energy system service, Electrician |
| Solar energy system service | Solar repair and maintenance | Solar energy company, Electrician |
| Electrician | Residential and commercial electrical | Lighting contractor, Electrical installation service |
| Lighting contractor | Lighting design and install | Electrician, Landscape lighting designer |
| Electric vehicle charging station contractor | EV charger installs | Electrician, Solar energy company |
| Home inspector | Buyer and seller inspections | Building inspector |
| Interior designer | Interior design studios | Interior Decorator, Furniture store |
| Interior Decorator | Decorating and staging | Interior designer, Home staging service |
| Architect | Residential and commercial design | Architecture firm, Interior designer |
| Pressure washing service | Power washing homes and decks | Window cleaning service, Gutter cleaning service |
| Window cleaning service | Window washing | Pressure washing service, Gutter cleaning service |
| House cleaning service | Residential maid services | Janitorial service, Carpet cleaning service |
| Janitorial service | Office and janitorial cleaning | House cleaning service |
| Carpet cleaning service | Carpet and rug cleaning | Upholstery cleaning service, Tile cleaning service |
| Upholstery cleaning service | Furniture cleaning | Carpet cleaning service, Leather cleaning service |
| Air duct cleaning service | Duct and vent cleaning | Dryer vent cleaning service, HVAC contractor |
| Dryer vent cleaning service | Dryer vent cleaning only | Air duct cleaning service, Appliance repair service |
| Junk removal service | Junk hauling and cleanouts | Dumpster rental service, Moving company |
| Dumpster rental service | Roll off dumpsters | Junk removal service, Waste management service |
| Moving company | Local and long distance moves | Moving and storage service, Storage facility |
| Moving and storage service | Moving plus storage companies | Moving company, Piano moving service |
| Storage facility | Self storage | Self-storage facility, Moving company |
| Self-storage facility | Self storage units | Storage facility, RV storage facility |
| Pest control service | General pest control | Animal control service, Bird control service |
| Landscaper | Landscape design and install | Landscape designer, Lawn care service |
| Landscape designer | Landscape design only | Landscaper, Garden center |
| Lawn care service | Mowing and lawn treatment | Landscaper, Lawn sprinkler system contractor |
| Lawn sprinkler system contractor | Sprinkler and irrigation | Irrigation equipment supplier, Landscaper |
| Tree service | Tree trimming and removal | Arborist service |
| Arborist service | Certified arborist work | Tree service, Landscaper |
| Snow removal service | Snow plowing | Landscaper, Lawn care service |
| Swimming pool contractor | Pool construction | Swimming pool repair service, Pool cleaning service |
| Swimming pool repair service | Pool repair | Pool cleaning service, Swimming pool supply store |
| Pool cleaning service | Weekly pool cleaning | Swimming pool repair service, Swimming pool supply store |
| Septic system service | Septic pumping and repair | Plumber, Excavating contractor |
| Appliance repair service | Washer, dryer and fridge repair | Refrigerator repair service, Washer & dryer repair service |
| Refrigerator repair service | Fridge repair | Appliance repair service, Appliance parts supplier |
| Washer & dryer repair service | Laundry appliance repair | Appliance repair service, Dryer vent cleaning service |
| Security system installation service | Alarm and camera installs | Security system supplier, Home automation company |
| Home automation company | Smart home installs | Security system installation service, Electrician |
| Blinds shop | Window blinds and shades | Window treatment store, Curtain store |
| Upholstery shop | Furniture upholstery | Furniture repair shop, Auto upholsterer |
| Furniture repair shop | Furniture repair | Upholstery shop, Antique furniture restoration service |
HVAC and plumbing categories (25)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC contractor | Full heating and cooling companies | Air conditioning contractor, Heating contractor |
| Air conditioning contractor | AC install and replacement | HVAC contractor, Air conditioning repair service |
| Air conditioning repair service | AC repair focused companies | Air conditioning contractor, HVAC contractor |
| Heating contractor | Furnace and heating work | Furnace repair service, Boiler supplier |
| Furnace repair service | Furnace repair | Heating contractor, HVAC contractor |
| Furnace store | Furnace sales | Heating equipment supplier, HVAC contractor |
| Air conditioning store | AC equipment retail | Air conditioning system supplier, HVAC contractor |
| Air conditioning system supplier | AC equipment supply | Air conditioning store, Heating equipment supplier |
| Heating equipment supplier | Heating equipment supply | Furnace store, Boiler supplier |
| Boiler supplier | Boiler sales | Heating contractor, Plumber |
| Mechanical contractor | Commercial mechanical systems | HVAC contractor, Plumber |
| Sheet metal contractor | Ductwork fabrication | HVAC contractor, Mechanical contractor |
| Energy equipment and solutions | Energy efficiency upgrades | Insulation contractor, Solar energy company |
| Plumber | All plumbing companies | Drainage service |
| Drainage service | Drain cleaning and repair | Plumber, Sewage disposal service |
| Plumbing supply store | Water heater retail | Plumber |
| Water treatment supplier | Softeners and filtration | Water softening equipment supplier, Water filter supplier |
| Water softening equipment supplier | Water softener sales | Water treatment supplier, Plumber |
| Water filter supplier | Water filter sales | Water treatment supplier, Water purification company |
| Water purification company | Water purification systems | Water treatment supplier, Water filter supplier |
| Well drilling contractor | Well drilling | Water pump supplier, Plumber |
| Water pump supplier | Pumps for wells and sumps | Well drilling contractor, Plumber |
| Gas installation service | Gas line installs | Plumber, Heating contractor |
| Sewage disposal service | Sewer and waste lines | Septic system service, Drainage service |
| Bathroom supply store | Bath fixtures | Plumbing supply store, Bathroom remodeler |
Not seeing your trade?
This page shows 600 of the most common categories. The GBP Category Finder searches all 4,000+, suggests a primary pick and exports your shortlist to CSV.
GBP categories for legal, medical, dental and financial businesses
Professional practices should pick the narrowest category that matches their main practice area. A divorce firm should not sit under the generic Lawyer category, and an orthodontist should not use Dentist as primary. These fields are competitive, so a precise primary category is often the cheapest advantage you can get.
Legal categories (28)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Lawyer | Solo lawyers in most practice areas | Law firm, Legal services |
| Law firm | Multi lawyer firms | Lawyer, Legal services |
| Legal services | Legal help that is not a law firm | Paralegal services provider, Notary public |
| Personal injury attorney | Injury and accident cases | Lawyer, Law firm |
| Criminal justice attorney | Criminal defense | Lawyer |
| Family law attorney | Family law cases | Divorce lawyer, Divorce service |
| Divorce lawyer | Divorce only practices | Family law attorney, Mediation service |
| Estate planning attorney | Wills and trusts | Probate attorney, Elder law attorney |
| Probate attorney | Probate and estates | Estate planning attorney, Estate litigation attorney |
| Elder law attorney | Senior and Medicaid planning | Estate planning attorney, Social security attorney |
| Bankruptcy attorney | Bankruptcy filings | Debt collecting, Lawyer |
| Business attorney | Business formation and contracts | Corporate office |
| Employment attorney | Employment disputes | Labor relations attorney, Lawyer |
| Immigration attorney | Visas and immigration | Immigration & naturalization service, Lawyer |
| Real estate attorney | Closings and property law | Title company, Lawyer |
| Tax attorney | Tax disputes | Tax preparation service, Lawyer |
| Patent attorney | Patents and IP | Lawyer |
| Social security attorney | Disability claims | Lawyer, Elder law attorney |
| Trial attorney | Litigation | Lawyer, Personal injury attorney |
| Insurance attorney | Insurance claim disputes | Lawyer, Personal injury attorney |
| General practice attorney | Broad general practice | Lawyer, Law firm |
| Mediation service | Mediators | Divorce service, Legal services |
| Notary public | Mobile and office notaries | Legal services, Process server |
| Process server | Serving legal papers | Legal services, Notary public |
| Paralegal services provider | Paralegal document help | Legal services, Notary public |
| Bail bonds service | Bail bonds | Criminal justice attorney, Legal services |
| Private investigator | Investigations | Legal services, Process server |
| Title company | Real estate title work | Real estate attorney, Escrow service |
Medical and dental categories (72)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor | Individual physicians | Medical clinic, Family practice physician |
| Medical clinic | Multi provider clinics | Doctor, Walk-in clinic |
| Family practice physician | Family doctors | Doctor, Internist |
| Internist | Internal medicine | Doctor |
| Pediatrician | Children's doctors | Doctor, Medical clinic |
| Urgent care center | Urgent care | Walk-in clinic, Medical clinic |
| Walk-in clinic | Walk in care | Urgent care center, Medical clinic |
| Dermatologist | Skin doctors | Skin care clinic, Doctor |
| Obstetrician-gynecologist | OB GYN practices | Doctor, Women's health clinic |
| Orthopedic surgeon | Bone and joint surgery | Sports medicine physician, Doctor |
| Sports medicine physician | Sports injuries | Orthopedic surgeon, Physical therapist |
| Plastic surgeon | Plastic surgery | Cosmetic surgeon, Plastic surgery clinic |
| Cosmetic surgeon | Cosmetic surgery | Plastic surgeon, Medical spa |
| Cardiologist | Heart doctors | Doctor, Medical clinic |
| Gastroenterologist | Digestive care | Doctor, Medical clinic |
| Neurologist | Neurology | Doctor, Medical clinic |
| Urologist | Urology | Doctor, Medical clinic |
| Allergist | Allergy care | Doctor, Medical clinic |
| Endocrinologist | Hormone and diabetes care | Doctor, Weight loss service |
| Oncologist | Cancer care | Doctor, Medical clinic |
| Psychiatrist | Psychiatry | Mental health clinic, Psychologist |
| Psychologist | Psychology practices | Psychotherapist, Mental health service |
| Psychotherapist | Therapy practices | Counselor, Psychologist |
| Counselor | Counseling | Psychotherapist, Family counselor |
| Family counselor | Family and couples therapy | Marriage or relationship counselor, Counselor |
| Marriage or relationship counselor | Couples counseling | Family counselor, Counselor |
| Mental health clinic | Mental health clinics | Mental health service, Psychiatrist |
| Mental health service | Mental health programs | Mental health clinic, Counselor |
| Addiction treatment center | Addiction treatment | Rehabilitation center, Mental health service |
| Rehabilitation center | Rehab centers | Addiction treatment center, Physical therapy clinic |
| Physical therapist | Individual PTs | Physical therapy clinic, Sports medicine clinic |
| Physical therapy clinic | PT clinics | Physical therapist, Rehabilitation center |
| Occupational therapist | Occupational therapy | Physical therapy clinic, Speech pathologist |
| Speech pathologist | Speech therapy | Occupational therapist, Pediatrician |
| Chiropractor | Chiropractic offices | Massage therapist, Physical therapist |
| Acupuncturist | Acupuncture | Acupuncture clinic, Massage therapist |
| Podiatrist | Foot doctors | Foot care, Orthopedic surgeon |
| Optometrist | Eye exams | Eye care center, Optician |
| Ophthalmologist | Eye surgeons | Eye care center, Optometrist |
| Eye care center | Eye clinics | Optometrist, Optician |
| Optician | Glasses fitting | Optometrist |
| Audiologist | Hearing tests | Hearing aid store, Doctor |
| Hearing aid store | Hearing aid sales | Audiologist, Hearing aid repair service |
| Pharmacy | Pharmacies | Drug store |
| Drug store | Drug stores | Pharmacy, Convenience store |
| Medical laboratory | Labs and testing | Blood testing service, Medical diagnostic imaging center |
| Medical diagnostic imaging center | Imaging centers | Radiologist, Medical laboratory |
| Home health care service | In home care | Senior citizen center, Nursing agency |
| Nursing agency | Nurse staffing | Home health care service, Employment agency |
| Assisted living facility | Assisted living | Retirement home, Nursing home |
| Nursing home | Skilled nursing | Assisted living facility, Hospice |
| Retirement home | Senior living | Assisted living facility, Retirement community |
| Hospice | Hospice care | Home health care service, Nursing home |
| Weight loss service | Weight loss programs | Nutritionist, Medical spa |
| Nutritionist | Nutrition counseling | Dietitian, Weight loss service |
| Dietitian | Registered dietitians | Nutritionist, Weight loss service |
| Medical spa | Med spas | Laser hair removal service, Skin care clinic |
| Hospital | Hospitals | Emergency room, Medical Center |
| Medical Center | Large care centers | Hospital, Medical clinic |
| Dentist | General dental offices | Dental clinic, Cosmetic dentist |
| Dental clinic | Multi dentist clinics | Dentist, Emergency dental service |
| Cosmetic dentist | Cosmetic dentistry | Dentist, Teeth whitening service |
| Pediatric dentist | Kids dentistry | Dentist, Orthodontist |
| Orthodontist | Braces and aligners | Dentist, Pediatric dentist |
| Endodontist | Root canals | Dentist, Dental clinic |
| Periodontist | Gum care | Dental implants periodontist, Dentist |
| Dental implants periodontist | Implant focused practices | Periodontist, Dentist |
| Oral surgeon | Oral surgery | Dentist, Dental implants periodontist |
| Emergency dental service | Emergency dentistry | Dentist, Dental clinic |
| Teeth whitening service | Whitening only | Cosmetic dentist, Dentist |
| Denture care center | Dentures | Dental laboratory, Dentist |
| Dental laboratory | Dental labs | Denture care center, Dental supply store |
Financial and insurance categories (21)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance agency | Insurance agencies | Insurance agent, Insurance broker |
| Insurance agent | Individual agents | Insurance agency, Auto insurance agency |
| Insurance broker | Brokers | Insurance agency, Insurance agent |
| Life insurance agency | Life insurance | Insurance agency, Financial planner |
| Health insurance agency | Health insurance | Insurance agency |
| Home insurance agency | Home insurance | Insurance agency, Auto insurance agency |
| Accountant | Individual accountants | Certified public accountant, Tax preparation service |
| Certified public accountant | CPA firms | Accountant, Tax consultant |
| Accounting firm | Accounting firms | Accountant, Bookkeeping service |
| Bookkeeping service | Bookkeeping | Accountant, Payroll service |
| Tax preparation service | Tax prep | Tax consultant, Accountant |
| Tax consultant | Tax advisors | Tax preparation service, Certified public accountant |
| Payroll service | Payroll | Bookkeeping service, Accounting firm |
| Financial planner | Financial planning | Financial consultant, Investment service |
| Financial consultant | Financial advice | Financial planner, Business management consultant |
| Investment service | Investment firms | Financial planner, Investment company |
| Bank | Banks | ATM, Credit union |
| Credit union | Credit unions | Bank, Loan agency |
| Loan agency | Lenders | Mortgage lender, Credit union |
| Check cashing service | Check cashing | Money order service, Loan agency |
| Credit counseling service | Credit counseling | Debt collecting, Financial consultant |
Google My Business categories list for beauty, auto, food and retail
Consumer businesses often qualify for several categories, so the choice of primary matters a lot. A salon that also does nails should pick the service most customers come in for. Restaurants should pick the cuisine or format people search for, like Pizza restaurant or Taco restaurant, not just Restaurant.
Beauty and wellness categories (31)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Beauty salon | Full service salons | Hair salon, Nail salon |
| Hair salon | Hair salons | Beauty salon, Hair extension technician |
| Barber shop | Barbershops | Hair salon, Men's clothing store |
| Nail salon | Nail salons | Beauty salon |
| Day spa | Day spas | Massage spa, Facial spa |
| Spa | Full spas | Day spa, Massage spa |
| Massage spa | Massage businesses | Massage therapist, Day spa |
| Massage therapist | Individual therapists | Massage spa, Day spa |
| Facial spa | Facial focused spas | Skin care clinic, Day spa |
| Skin care clinic | Skin clinics | Facial spa, Medical spa |
| Waxing hair removal service | Waxing studios | Hair removal service, Eyebrow bar |
| Laser hair removal service | Laser hair removal | Hair removal service, Medical spa |
| Hair removal service | Hair removal | Waxing hair removal service, Laser hair removal service |
| Eyelash salon | Lash studios | Eyebrow bar, Beauty salon |
| Eyebrow bar | Brow studios | Eyelash salon |
| Make-up artist | Makeup artists | Bridal shop, Beauty salon |
| Tanning salon | Tanning | Day spa |
| Tattoo shop | Tattoo studios | Body piercing shop, Tattoo artist |
| Tattoo artist | Individual artists | Tattoo shop, Tattoo removal service |
| Body piercing shop | Piercing studios | Tattoo shop, Jewelry store |
| Permanent make-up clinic | Microblading and PMU | Eyebrow bar, Beauty salon |
| Hair extension technician | Extensions | Hair salon, Wig shop |
| Wig shop | Wigs | Hair extension technician, Beauty supply store |
| Beauty supply store | Beauty supply retail | Cosmetics store, Hair salon |
| Cosmetics store | Cosmetics retail | Beauty supply store, Perfume store |
| Beauty school | Beauty schools | Beauty salon, Barber school |
| Wellness center | Wellness centers | Holistic medicine practitioner, Massage therapist |
| Holistic medicine practitioner | Holistic care | Naturopathic practitioner, Wellness center |
| Naturopathic practitioner | Naturopaths | Holistic medicine practitioner, Nutritionist |
| Reiki therapist | Reiki | Wellness center, Massage therapist |
| Sauna | Saunas | Spa, Wellness center |
Automotive categories (48)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Auto repair shop | General auto repair | Mechanic, Car repair and maintenance service |
| Mechanic | Small mechanic shops | Auto repair shop, Brake shop |
| Car repair and maintenance service | Repair and maintenance | Auto repair shop, Oil change service |
| Oil change service | Quick lube | Car repair and maintenance service, Auto repair shop |
| Brake shop | Brakes | Auto repair shop, Muffler shop |
| Muffler shop | Exhaust work | Auto repair shop, Brake shop |
| Transmission shop | Transmission repair | Auto repair shop, Mechanic |
| Tire shop | Tire sales and install | Wheel alignment service, Used tire shop |
| Used tire shop | Used tires | Tire shop, Tire repair shop |
| Tire repair shop | Flat repair | Tire shop, Wheel alignment service |
| Wheel alignment service | Alignment | Tire shop, Auto repair shop |
| Auto body shop | Collision repair | Auto painting, Auto dent removal service |
| Auto painting | Paint work | Auto body shop, Auto restoration service |
| Auto dent removal service | Paintless dent repair | Auto body shop, Car detailing service |
| Auto glass shop | Windshield replacement | Auto glass repair service, Auto window tinting service |
| Auto glass repair service | Windshield chip repair | Auto glass shop, Auto body shop |
| Auto window tinting service | Window tint | Car accessories store, Auto glass shop |
| Car detailing service | Detailing | Car wash, Auto window tinting service |
| Car wash | Car washes | Car detailing service, Self service car wash |
| Self service car wash | Coin wash bays | Car wash, Car detailing service |
| Auto electrical service | Auto electrical | Auto repair shop, Car battery store |
| Auto air conditioning service | Car AC repair | Auto repair shop, Auto radiator repair service |
| Auto radiator repair service | Radiators | Auto repair shop, Auto air conditioning service |
| Diesel engine repair service | Diesel engines | Truck repair shop, Auto repair shop |
| Truck repair shop | Truck repair | Diesel engine repair service, Towing service |
| Towing service | Towing | Auto wrecker |
| Auto wrecker | Wrecking yards | Towing service, Used auto parts store |
| Auto parts store | Auto parts retail | Used auto parts store, Car accessories store |
| Used auto parts store | Salvage parts | Auto parts store, Auto wrecker |
| Car accessories store | Accessories | Auto parts store, Car stereo store |
| Car stereo store | Car audio | Car accessories store, Auto electrical service |
| Car dealer | Franchise and general dealers | Used car dealer, Auto broker |
| Used car dealer | Used cars | Car dealer, Auto broker |
| Auto broker | Car brokers | Car dealer, Used car dealer |
| Car rental agency | Car rental | Truck rental agency, Van rental agency |
| Truck rental agency | Truck rental | Car rental agency, Moving company |
| Motorcycle dealer | Motorcycle sales | Motorcycle repair shop, Motorcycle parts store |
| Motorcycle repair shop | Motorcycle repair | Motorcycle dealer, Motorcycle parts store |
| RV dealer | RV sales | RV repair shop, RV storage facility |
| RV repair shop | RV repair | RV dealer, Auto repair shop |
| Boat dealer | Boat sales | Boat repair shop, Marina |
| Boat repair shop | Boat repair | Boat dealer, Marine supply store |
| Smog inspection station | Smog checks | Car inspection station, Auto repair shop |
| Car inspection station | Vehicle inspection | Smog inspection station, Auto repair shop |
| Driving school | Driving lessons | Drivers license training school |
| Auto insurance agency | Car insurance | Insurance agency, Insurance agent |
| Auto restoration service | Classic car restoration | Auto body shop, Auto upholsterer |
| Auto upholsterer | Car interiors | Upholstery shop, Auto restoration service |
Restaurants and food categories (65)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant | Any sit down place with no better match | Family restaurant, American restaurant |
| American restaurant | American menus | Restaurant, Family restaurant |
| Family restaurant | Family dining | American restaurant, Breakfast restaurant |
| Fast food restaurant | Quick service | Hamburger restaurant, Chicken restaurant |
| Hamburger restaurant | Burger spots | Fast food restaurant, American restaurant |
| Pizza restaurant | Pizzerias | Pizza delivery, Pizza takeaway |
| Pizza delivery | Delivery pizza | Pizza restaurant, Pizza takeaway |
| Pizza takeaway | Takeout pizza | Pizza restaurant, Pizza delivery |
| Italian restaurant | Italian menus | Pizza restaurant, Wine bar |
| Mexican restaurant | Mexican food | Taco restaurant, Tex-Mex restaurant |
| Taco restaurant | Taquerias | Mexican restaurant, Burrito restaurant |
| Tex-Mex restaurant | Tex Mex | Mexican restaurant, Bar & grill |
| Chinese restaurant | Chinese food | Chinese takeaway, Asian restaurant |
| Japanese restaurant | Japanese food | Sushi restaurant, Ramen restaurant |
| Sushi restaurant | Sushi bars | Japanese restaurant, Asian restaurant |
| Ramen restaurant | Ramen shops | Japanese restaurant, Noodle shop |
| Thai restaurant | Thai food | Asian restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant |
| Vietnamese restaurant | Vietnamese food | Pho restaurant, Asian restaurant |
| Pho restaurant | Pho shops | Vietnamese restaurant, Noodle shop |
| Indian restaurant | Indian food | Vegetarian restaurant, Halal restaurant |
| Pakistani restaurant | Pakistani food | Halal restaurant, Indian restaurant |
| Korean restaurant | Korean food | Korean barbecue restaurant, Asian restaurant |
| Korean barbecue restaurant | Korean BBQ | Korean restaurant, Barbecue restaurant |
| Mediterranean restaurant | Mediterranean food | Greek restaurant, Middle Eastern restaurant |
| Greek restaurant | Greek food | Mediterranean restaurant, Gyro restaurant |
| Middle Eastern restaurant | Middle Eastern food | Mediterranean restaurant, Halal restaurant |
| Halal restaurant | Halal food | Middle Eastern restaurant, Pakistani restaurant |
| Barbecue restaurant | BBQ joints | Southern restaurant (US), Caterer |
| Southern restaurant (US) | Southern cooking | Soul food restaurant, Barbecue restaurant |
| Soul food restaurant | Soul food | Southern restaurant (US), Chicken restaurant |
| Chicken wings restaurant | Wing spots | Chicken restaurant, Sports bar |
| Chicken restaurant | Chicken focused menus | Fried chicken takeaway, Fast food restaurant |
| Seafood restaurant | Seafood | Fish & chips restaurant, Oyster bar restaurant |
| Steak house | Steakhouses | Fine dining restaurant, Seafood restaurant |
| Fine dining restaurant | Upscale dining | Steak house, Wine bar |
| Breakfast restaurant | Breakfast spots | Brunch restaurant, Diner |
| Brunch restaurant | Brunch | Breakfast restaurant, Cafe |
| Diner | Diners | Breakfast restaurant, American restaurant |
| Sandwich shop | Sandwich shops | Deli, Cafe |
| Deli | Delis | Sandwich shop, Grocery store |
| Vegetarian restaurant | Vegetarian menus | Vegan restaurant, Health food restaurant |
| Vegan restaurant | Vegan menus | Vegetarian restaurant, Health food restaurant |
| Health food restaurant | Healthy menus | Salad shop, Juice shop |
| Caterer | Catering companies | Wedding buffet, Restaurant |
| Buffet restaurant | Buffets | Restaurant, Caterer |
| Cafe | Cafes | Coffee shop, Bakery |
| Coffee shop | Coffee shops | Cafe, Espresso bar |
| Bakery | Bakeries | Cake shop, Pastry shop |
| Cake shop | Custom cakes | Bakery, Wedding bakery |
| Donut shop | Donuts | Bakery, Coffee shop |
| Ice cream shop | Ice cream | Frozen yogurt shop, Dessert shop |
| Frozen yogurt shop | Frozen yogurt | Ice cream shop, Dessert shop |
| Dessert shop | Desserts | Ice cream shop, Bakery |
| Juice shop | Juice bars | Health food restaurant |
| Bubble tea store | Boba | Tea house, Dessert shop |
| Bar | Bars | Cocktail bar, Pub |
| Bar & grill | Bar and grill | Bar, American restaurant |
| Sports bar | Sports bars | Bar & grill, Chicken wings restaurant |
| Pub | Pubs | Bar, Gastropub |
| Cocktail bar | Cocktail bars | Bar, Lounge |
| Wine bar | Wine bars | Bar, Wine store |
| Brewery | Breweries | Brewpub, Bar |
| Brewpub | Brewpubs | Brewery, Pub |
| Winery | Wineries | Wine bar, Wine store |
| Hookah bar | Hookah lounges | Lounge, Bar |
Retail categories (61)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing store | General clothing | Women's clothing store, Men's clothing store |
| Women's clothing store | Women's fashion | Clothing store, Boutique |
| Men's clothing store | Men's fashion | Clothing store |
| Boutique | Boutiques | Clothing store, Gift shop |
| Children's clothing store | Kids clothes | Baby store, Clothing store |
| Shoe store | Shoes | Clothing store |
| Bridal shop | Bridal gowns | Wedding store, Formal wear store |
| Formal wear store | Formal wear | Tuxedo shop, Bridal shop |
| Jewelry store | Jewelers | Jewelry repair service, Watch store |
| Jeweler | Custom jewelers | Jewelry store, Jewelry designer |
| Watch store | Watches | Jewelry store, Watch repair service |
| Gift shop | Gifts | Souvenir store, Boutique |
| Florist | Flower shops | Flower delivery, Wedding service |
| Flower delivery | Flower delivery | Florist, Gift basket store |
| Furniture store | Furniture | Mattress store, Home goods store |
| Mattress store | Mattresses | Furniture store, Bedding store |
| Home goods store | Home goods | Furniture store, Kitchen supply store |
| Appliance store | Appliances | Appliance repair service, Electronics store |
| Electronics store | Electronics | Cell phone store, Computer store |
| Cell phone store | Phones | Mobile phone repair shop, Electronics store |
| Mobile phone repair shop | Phone repair | Cell phone store, Electronics repair shop |
| Electronics repair shop | Electronics repair | Computer repair service, Mobile phone repair shop |
| Computer store | Computers | Computer repair service, Electronics store |
| Computer repair service | Computer repair | Computer store, Computer support and services |
| Hardware store | Hardware | Home improvement store, Paint store |
| Home improvement store | Big home stores | Hardware store, Building materials store |
| Paint store | Paint | Hardware store, Painter |
| Building materials store | Building supplies | Lumber store, Hardware store |
| Garden center | Garden centers | Plant nursery, Landscaper |
| Plant nursery | Nurseries | Garden center, Landscaper |
| Book store | Books | Used book store, Gift shop |
| Toy store | Toys | Hobby store, Baby store |
| Hobby store | Hobbies | Toy store, Craft store |
| Craft store | Crafts | Fabric store, Art supply store |
| Sporting goods store | Sports gear | Bicycle store, Outdoor sports store |
| Bicycle store | Bikes | Bicycle repair shop, Sporting goods store |
| Bicycle repair shop | Bike repair | Bicycle store, Sporting goods store |
| Gun shop | Firearms | Shooting range, Hunting store |
| Thrift store | Thrift | Used clothing store, Consignment shop |
| Consignment shop | Consignment | Thrift store, Vintage clothing store |
| Pawn shop | Pawn shops | Jewelry buyer, Gold dealer |
| Antique store | Antiques | Furniture store, Vintage clothing store |
| Grocery store | Groceries | Supermarket, Convenience store |
| Supermarket | Supermarkets | Grocery store, Pharmacy |
| Convenience store | Corner stores | Grocery store, Gas station |
| Liquor store | Liquor | Wine store, Beer store |
| Wine store | Wine | Liquor store, Wine bar |
| Vaporizer store | Vape shops | Tobacco shop, E-commerce service |
| Tobacco shop | Tobacco | Vaporizer store, Cigar shop |
| Cannabis store | Cannabis retail | Vaporizer store, Tobacco shop |
| Health food store | Natural foods | Vitamin & supplements store, Organic food store |
| Vitamin & supplements store | Supplements | Health food store, Nutritionist |
| Butcher shop | Butchers | Meat products store, Deli |
| Asian grocery store | Asian groceries | Grocery store |
| Party store | Party supplies | Balloon store, Costume store |
| Office supply store | Office supplies | Stationery store, Print shop |
| Discount store | Discount retail | Dollar store, Variety store |
| Department store | Department stores | Clothing store, Home goods store |
| Musical instrument store | Instruments | Music school, Musical instrument repair shop |
| Swimming pool supply store | Pool supply retail | Pool cleaning service |
| E-commerce service | Online stores with no storefront | Store |
More GBP categories: real estate, fitness, pets, education, events and B2B
The last part of the list covers real estate, fitness, pets, education, events, professional services and community businesses. Many of these have both a "service" and a "store" version, like Pet groomer and Pet store. Pick the one that matches how customers actually use you, then add the other only if it is a real part of the business.
Real estate and property categories (19)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Real estate agency | Brokerages | Real estate agent, Property management company |
| Real estate agent | Individual agents | Real estate agency, Real estate consultant |
| Property management company | Property management | Real estate rental agency, Apartment rental agency |
| Real estate rental agency | Rental listings | Property management company, Apartment rental agency |
| Apartment rental agency | Apartment leasing | Apartment complex, Property management company |
| Apartment complex | Apartment buildings | Apartment building, Apartment rental agency |
| Commercial real estate agency | Commercial brokers | Real estate agency, Office space rental agency |
| Real estate appraiser | Appraisers | Real estate agency, Home inspector |
| Real estate developer | Developers | Home builder, Construction company |
| Real estate consultant | Consultants | Real estate agent, Real estate agency |
| Mortgage broker | Mortgage brokers | Mortgage lender, Loan agency |
| Mortgage lender | Mortgage lenders | Mortgage broker, Bank |
| Escrow service | Escrow | Title company, Real estate attorney |
| Home staging service | Home staging | Interior Decorator, Real estate agency |
| Vacation home rental agency | Vacation rentals | Holiday apartment rental, Property management company |
| Land surveyor | Surveyors | Surveyor, Real estate developer |
| Mobile home dealer | Manufactured home sales | Mobile home park, Home builder |
| Office space rental agency | Office space | Coworking space, Commercial real estate agency |
| Coworking space | Coworking | Office space rental agency, Business center |
Fitness and sports categories (20)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Gym | Gyms | Fitness center, Personal trainer |
| Fitness center | Fitness centers | Gym, Spa and health club |
| Personal trainer | Personal training | Gym, Nutritionist |
| Yoga studio | Yoga | Pilates studio, Meditation center |
| Pilates studio | Pilates | Yoga studio, Fitness center |
| Martial arts school | Martial arts | Karate school |
| Karate school | Karate | Martial arts school, Self defense school |
| Boxing gym | Boxing | Kickboxing school, Martial arts school |
| Kickboxing school | Kickboxing | Boxing gym, Martial arts school |
| Rock climbing gym | Climbing | Fitness center, Sporting goods store |
| Gymnastics center | Gymnastics | Dance school, Children's party service |
| Swimming pool | Pools | Swimming school, Fitness center |
| Swimming school | Swim lessons | Swimming pool, Swimming instructor |
| Golf course | Golf courses | Golf club, Golf driving range |
| Golf driving range | Driving ranges | Golf course, Golf shop |
| Tennis club | Tennis | Tennis instructor, Sports club |
| Sports club | Sports clubs | Athletic club, Youth organization |
| Dance school | Dance lessons | Ballet school |
| Shooting range | Ranges | Gun shop, Hunting store |
| Bowling alley | Bowling | Video arcade, Bar |
Pets and animals categories (21)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Veterinarian | Vet clinics | Animal hospital, Pet groomer |
| Animal hospital | Animal hospitals | Veterinarian, Emergency veterinarian service |
| Emergency veterinarian service | Emergency vets | Animal hospital, Veterinarian |
| Pet groomer | Grooming | Dog day care center, Pet store |
| Dog day care center | Dog daycare | Pet boarding service, Dog trainer |
| Pet boarding service | Boarding | Kennel, Dog day care center |
| Kennel | Kennels | Pet boarding service, Dog breeder |
| Dog trainer | Dog training | Pet trainer, Dog day care center |
| Pet trainer | All pet training | Dog trainer, Pet store |
| Pet sitter | Pet sitting | Dog walker, Pet boarding service |
| Dog walker | Dog walking | Pet sitter, Dog day care center |
| Pet store | Pet stores | Pet supply store, Pet groomer |
| Pet supply store | Pet supplies | Pet store, Aquarium shop |
| Aquarium shop | Fish and tanks | Pet store, Tropical fish store |
| Dog breeder | Breeders | Kennel, Pet store |
| Animal shelter | Shelters | Pet adoption service, Animal protection organization |
| Pet adoption service | Adoption | Animal shelter, Animal rescue service |
| Wildlife rescue service | Wildlife removal | Pest control service, Animal control service |
| Horse boarding stable | Horse boarding | Horse riding school, Equestrian club |
| Horse riding school | Riding lessons | Horse boarding stable, Equestrian club |
| Pet funeral service | Pet cremation | Pet cemetery, Veterinarian |
Education and childcare categories (25)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Tutoring service | Tutoring | Educational consultant, Test preparation center |
| Test preparation center | Test prep | Tutoring service, Learning center |
| Learning center | Learning centers | Tutoring service, After school program |
| After school program | After school care | Child care agency, Learning center |
| Child care agency | Child care | Day care center, Preschool |
| Day care center | Day cares | Preschool, Child care agency |
| Preschool | Preschools | Day care center, Kindergarten |
| Montessori school | Montessori | Preschool, Private educational institution |
| Private educational institution | Private schools | Elementary school, High school |
| Elementary school | Elementary | Private educational institution, Charter school |
| High school | High schools | Private educational institution, Charter school |
| Charter school | Charter schools | Elementary school, High school |
| College | Colleges | University, Community college |
| Community college | Community colleges | College, Vocational school |
| Vocational school | Trade schools | Community college, Technical school |
| Music school | Music lessons | Music instructor, Piano instructor |
| Piano instructor | Piano lessons | Music school, Music instructor |
| Music instructor | Music teachers | Music school, Guitar instructor |
| Art school | Art classes | Art studio, Painting lessons |
| Language school | Language classes | English language school |
| English language school | ESL | Language school, Tutoring service |
| Cooking school | Cooking classes | Culinary school, Caterer |
| Computer training school | Computer classes | Educational institution, Training center |
| Training center | Corporate and skills training | Computer training school, Educational consultant |
| Educational consultant | College and school advising | Tutoring service, Test preparation center |
Events and entertainment categories (26)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Event venue | Venues | Wedding venue, Banquet hall |
| Wedding venue | Wedding venues | Event venue, Banquet hall |
| Banquet hall | Banquet halls | Event venue, Caterer |
| Event planner | Event planning | Wedding planner, Party planner |
| Wedding planner | Wedding planning | Event planner, Wedding service |
| Party planner | Party planning | Event planner, Children's party service |
| Wedding photographer | Wedding photos | Photographer, Video production service |
| Photographer | Photographers | Photography studio, Wedding photographer |
| Photography studio | Studios | Photographer, Portrait studio |
| Video production service | Video crews | Wedding photographer |
| DJ service | DJs | Wedding service, Karaoke equipment rental service |
| Party equipment rental service | Party rentals | Tent rental service, Event planner |
| Tent rental service | Tent rentals | Party equipment rental service, Event venue |
| Children's party service | Kids parties | Party planner |
| Limousine service | Limos | Chauffeur service |
| Photo booth | Photo booths | Party equipment rental service, Wedding service |
| Musician | Live music | Band, DJ service |
| Escape room center | Escape rooms | Amusement center, Video arcade |
| Video arcade | Arcades and game rooms | Amusement center, Bowling alley |
| Movie theater | Cinemas | Drive-in movie theater, Event venue |
| Comedy club | Comedy clubs | Night club, Bar |
| Night club | Night clubs | Bar, Lounge |
| Karaoke bar | Karaoke | Bar, Night club |
| Art gallery | Galleries | Art studio, Picture frame shop |
| Tour operator | Tours | Tour agency, Travel agency |
| Travel agency | Travel agents | Tour operator, Cruise agency |
Professional services and B2B categories (35)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Marketing agency | Marketing agencies | Internet marketing service, Advertising agency |
| Internet marketing service | Digital marketing | Marketing agency, Website designer |
| Advertising agency | Ad agencies | Marketing agency, Media company |
| Website designer | Web design | Internet marketing service, Graphic designer |
| Graphic designer | Graphic design | Website designer |
| Software company | Software firms | Website designer, Computer support and services |
| Computer support and services | Managed IT | Software company |
| Business management consultant | Consulting | Consultant, Business development service |
| Consultant | General consulting | Business management consultant, Marketing consultant |
| Marketing consultant | Marketing advice | Marketing agency, Consultant |
| Business development service | Business development | Business management consultant, Consultant |
| Employment agency | Staffing | Temp agency, Recruiter |
| Temp agency | Temp staffing | Employment agency, Recruiter |
| Recruiter | Recruiting | Employment agency, Executive search firm |
| Executive search firm | Executive search | Recruiter, Employment agency |
| Print shop | Printing | Sign shop, Screen printer |
| Sign shop | Signs | Print shop, Vehicle wrapping service |
| Screen printer | Screen printing | Print shop, T-shirt store |
| Commercial printer | Large print runs | Print shop, Printing equipment supplier |
| Courier service | Couriers | Delivery service, Freight forwarding service |
| Delivery service | Deliveries | Courier service, Moving company |
| Trucking company | Trucking | Freight forwarding service, Logistics service |
| Logistics service | Logistics | Trucking company, Freight forwarding service |
| Freight forwarding service | Freight forwarding | Logistics service, Shipping service |
| Shipping and mailing service | Pack and ship stores | Shipping service, Mailbox rental service |
| Security guard service | Guards | Security service, Security system installation service |
| Translation service | Translators | Notary public, Legal services |
| Engineer | Engineers | Civil engineer, Structural engineer |
| Civil engineer | Civil engineering | Engineer, Land surveyor |
| Structural engineer | Structural engineering | Engineer, Civil engineer |
| Public relations firm | PR | Marketing agency, Advertising agency |
| Telecommunications service provider | Phone and internet | Internet service provider, Telecommunications contractor |
| Internet service provider | ISPs | Telecommunications service provider, Cable company |
| Call center | Call centers | Telemarketing service, Telephone answering service |
| Telephone answering service | Answering services | Call center, Business center |
Personal services and community categories (21)
| Category | Good as primary for | Pair with |
|---|---|---|
| Laundromat | Self service laundry | Laundry service, Dry cleaner |
| Laundry service | Wash and fold | Laundromat, Dry cleaner |
| Dry cleaner | Dry cleaning | Laundry service, Tailor |
| Tailor | Tailoring and alterations | Dry cleaner, Clothing alteration service |
| Clothing alteration service | Alterations | Tailor, Dry cleaner |
| Shoe repair shop | Shoe repair | Leather repair service, Key duplication service |
| Watch repair service | Watch repair | Jewelry repair service, Watch store |
| Jewelry repair service | Jewelry repair | Jeweler, Watch repair service |
| Funeral home | Funeral homes | Cremation service, Cemetery |
| Cremation service | Cremation | Funeral home, Cemetery |
| Cemetery | Cemeteries | Funeral home, Monument maker |
| Church | Churches | Christian church, Non-denominational church |
| Mosque | Mosques | Religious organization |
| Non-profit organization | Nonprofits | Charity, Community center |
| Charity | Charities | Non-profit organization, Donations center |
| Community center | Community centers | Non-profit organization, Senior citizen center |
| Hotel | Hotels | Motel, Extended stay hotel |
| Motel | Motels | Hotel, Inn |
| Bed & breakfast | B and Bs | Inn, Guest house |
| RV park | RV parks | Campground, RV storage facility |
| Campground | Campgrounds | RV park, Cabin rental agency |
How do I find my competitors' Google business categories?
Google shows only the primary category on a public profile. To see a competitor's additional categories, use a browser extension like GMB Everywhere, a local SEO tool such as PlePer or BrightLocal, or check the page source of their Maps listing. Look at the top three map pack results for your main keyword in your city.
Do this before every new profile setup. It takes about ten minutes and it tells you what Google already rewards in that exact market.
- Search your main service plus your city in Google Maps, for example "plumber Shekhupura" or "AC repair Las Vegas".
- Open the top three results. Write down the primary category shown under each name.
- Turn on a category extension and note the additional categories for each.
- Look for the pattern. If all three share a primary category, that is your strongest candidate.
- Run the main service through the LocalSEOFlow GBP Category Finder to catch options none of them use yet.
Tools that show competitor categories, with honest notes
| Tool | What it does well | Downside |
|---|---|---|
| Google Maps | Free, shows the primary category | Hides additional categories |
| GMB Everywhere | Chrome extension that shows all categories right in Maps | Works only in Chrome based browsers |
| PlePer | Category lookups and a long running category database | Interface feels dated |
| BrightLocal | Full local SEO suite with GBP audits | Paid, more than most small businesses need |
| Whitespark | Strong citation tools and local research | Paid, category data is not the main focus |
| Local Falcon | Grid rank tracking to test category changes | Paid credits, does not pick categories for you |
| Semrush | Keyword data to see what people search | Not a category tool, Local add on is extra |
Once you know the categories, run a full profile check with the GBP Audit tool. It flags missing fields that hold back a well categorized profile.
Do Google Business Profile categories change?
Yes. Google adds, renames and retires categories from time to time, and it does not always announce it. Google can also suggest or apply categories based on your website and mentions online. If you edit a category yourself, Google says you might be asked to verify the business again, so change categories with a clear reason.
That verification warning comes straight from Google's category help page. A category swap that looks harmless can put a profile back into a video verification queue for days. That is why you should never "test" categories week to week.
How to change a category safely
- Screenshot the current categories and your rankings for the main keywords.
- Make one change at a time, primary first if that is the problem.
- Confirm the service page on your website matches the new category.
- Wait at least two to four weeks before judging the result.
- Check the profile monthly for categories Google added on its own. Remove any that do not fit.
What are the most common Google business category mistakes?
The biggest mistakes are choosing a broad primary category when a specific one exists, filling all 9 additional slots with loose matches, using categories as keywords, adding categories for businesses you share a building with, and changing categories too often. Each one either weakens your relevance signal or risks a suspension or a new verification.
- Broad primary. "Contractor" when "Roofing contractor" exists. You lose the searches that matter most.
- Category stuffing. Ten categories for a business that does two things. Google says to use as few as possible.
- Categories as keywords. Picking "Emergency veterinarian service" because you want "emergency" traffic, while you close at 6 pm.
- Categories for a business you share a building with. Google's example is a Starbucks inside a Barnes & Noble. The bookstore should not add Coffee shop. The guidelines say to create a separate profile instead.
- Mismatched chains. Google says all locations of a business should share the one category that best represents it.
- No supporting page. A category with no matching page on the site is a weak claim.
- Constant edits. Each change can trigger review and verification.
Categories are one piece of profile trust. Matching name, address and phone details across the web is another. The free NAP Consistency Checker finds mismatches, and the Local Schema Checker confirms your website markup tells the same story as your profile.
Check your categories against 4,000+ real options
Type your main service and see the closest primary category, related additional categories and their gcid IDs. Export the list to share with a client or your team.
How do I use the GBP Category Finder tool?
Open the GBP Category Finder, type the service you offer in plain words, and the tool searches more than 4,000 Google Business Profile categories. It suggests a primary category, lists up to 9 additional ones, shows each gcid ID, and lets you export your shortlist as a CSV. It is free and needs no sign up.
- Type your main service, such as "ac repair" or "divorce lawyer".
- Review the suggested primary category and compare it with what your top competitors use.
- Tick the additional categories that match real services you sell.
- Copy the gcid IDs if you manage profiles in bulk or through an API.
- Export the CSV and paste the exact names into your Business Profile.
When the tool helps most
- New profiles. You get a clean starting set before the first verification.
- Client audits. Export a shortlist to show a client why their category should change.
- Agencies with many locations. gcid IDs make bulk uploads less error prone.
The honest limit: no tool knows your business better than you. The finder shows options and matches. You still decide which ones are true.
What should I do after my GBP categories are set?
Once categories are set, back them up everywhere else. Build a website page for each category, add services in the profile, upload real photos, ask for reviews that mention the service, and track rankings for a few weeks. Categories open the door. The rest of the profile is what gets you picked.
- Add a service page per category and make sure Google has indexed it. The guide to indexing your website on Google walks through it.
- Upload job photos. The geotagging photos for local SEO guide explains what helps and what is a myth.
- Make reviews easy with a direct link or QR code from the Google Review Link Generator.
- Tag your profile website link with the GBP UTM Builder so you can see profile traffic in analytics.
- Add LocalBusiness markup with the Schema Markup Builder. The schema markup builder guide shows which type matches which category.
Pick your categories, then build the rest
Start with the right primary and additional categories. Search, compare and export them in one free tool.
Frequently asked questions
What should my business category be on Google?
Pick the category that describes what your business is, not everything it does. Search your main service in Google Maps, see which primary category the top three competitors use, and choose the closest match. Then add secondary categories only for services you really offer.
What do I put for business category?
Start typing your main service in the category field and choose an exact match from Google list, for example Plumber or Dentist. You cannot add your own wording. Use the free GBP Category Finder to see related categories before you decide.
How to add categories in Google Business Profile?
Open your profile in Google Search or Maps, choose Edit profile, then Business category. Set one primary category, add up to nine additional ones and save. Changes can take a few days to show and Google may ask you to verify again after a big change.
What is a business category in Google Business?
They are fixed labels from Google's own list that describe what your business is, like Plumber or Dentist. Your primary category has the biggest effect on which local searches you show up for. You can add up to 9 additional categories for real departments or services.
How many categories can I add to my Google Business Profile?
One primary category and up to 9 additional categories, so 10 in total. Google recommends using as few as possible to describe your core business. Most local service businesses do well with two to five additional categories.
Where can I find a full list of Google business categories?
This page lists 600 of the most common ones by industry. For all 4,000+ categories, search the free GBP Category Finder, which also shows gcid IDs. You can also type into the category field in your Business Profile editor to see Google's suggestions.
Can I create a custom category on Google Business Profile?
No. Google says you cannot create your own category. If the exact category is missing, choose the closest general one that still describes your business, and explain the specific services in your description and service list.
Does my primary category affect rankings?
Yes. Local SEO surveys from BrightLocal and Whitespark have ranked the primary category among the strongest map pack factors for years. It tells Google which searches your business is relevant for, so a wrong primary category holds back everything else.
Will changing my Google business category hurt my rankings?
It can shift rankings for a while, up or down. Google also says editing a category might require you to verify again. Change one thing at a time, keep a record of rankings before, and give it at least two to four weeks.
How do I see what categories my competitors use?
Google Maps shows only their primary category. Use a Chrome extension like GMB Everywhere or a tool like PlePer to see the additional ones. Check the top three map results for your main keyword and city.
Should I use all 9 additional categories?
Usually not. Add a category only for a service you actively sell and have a page for. Filling every slot with loose matches blurs your relevance and can draw a manual review.
Why did Google change my business category?
Google can suggest or apply categories based on your website and mentions of your business online. It also renames categories now and then. Check your profile monthly and correct anything that does not fit.
What is the best Google category for an auto repair shop?
Auto repair shop is the usual primary. Then add categories for real specialties, such as Brake shop, Transmission shop, Oil change service or Tire shop. Check what the top local shops use before you decide.
What is a gcid in Google Business categories?
A gcid is the internal ID Google uses for each category, such as gcid:plumber. You see it in bulk uploads, APIs and some tools. The GBP Category Finder shows the gcid next to each category name.
Are Google My Business categories the same as Google Business Profile categories?
Yes. Google renamed Google My Business to Google Business Profile, but the category system stayed the same. Any old guide about Google My Business categories is talking about the same field.
Free tools for this
GBP Category Finder
Search 4,000+ Google business categories with gcid IDs and CSV export.
GBP Audit
Check your Business Profile for missing or weak fields.
NAP Consistency Checker
Find name, address and phone mismatches across the web.
Google Review Link Generator
Create a direct review link and QR code for your profile.