Anyone still seeing results with local directory backlinks?

I’ve been testing a few in niche sites (like legal and health) and I’m wondering if they still move the needle for local SEO.
Do you guys still use them or is it a thing of the past?

Local SEO is helpful only if you do it the right way. Brings alot of business from local clients!

Getting backlinks from reputable local directories can have a positive impact for a website's visibility in local search results. Better to get such backlinks from trustworthy / well-established local directories. And, focus on quality over quantity.

Yes.

For local SEO, local directory backlinks are always going to be relevant.

Now thanks to AI and local intelligence and locally sourced GEO IP-specific information, it's gonna be very challenging because eventually, AI is going to make backlinks irrelevant.

I know I'm not supposed to say that.

I know we're supposed to hang on to the myth that backlinks will always remain part of the SEO equation.

But I'd also be a liar if I told you that was the case.

The writing is on the wall.

AI is going to make links irrelevant.

It's just a matter of time.

Are local directory backlinks still important?

Absolutely!

Will they continue to be important in the near term or even midterm future?

Of course!

But are they the business plan or business strategy that you should build your business on?

Of course not!

NafeProxys said:

I’ve been testing a few in niche sites (like legal and health) and I’m wondering if they still move the needle for local SEO.
Do you guys still use them or is it a thing of the past?

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There are some ifs and buts. Like if your site is a local site and you take backlinks from renowned local directory sites, and only if you do it in the right way, only then does it add some value and have a positive impact.

Yes, local directory backlinks can still help with SEO, but their impact depends on quality, relevance, and how you use them

Yes, local directory backlinks still help with local SEO, especially if they're from reputable, niche-specific directories. They can boost your visibility in local search results and improve your domain authority. However, their effectiveness has decreased over time.