Does responding to Google reviews help local SEO?

Short answer

Indirectly, yes. Google has publicly said that responding to reviews can improve your visibility in local search, and review signals — how many you have, how fresh they are, and how you engage with them — factor into local ranking.

How reviews feed local ranking

• Review count and star rating are among the strongest local-pack ranking signals.
• Fresh, steady review activity tells Google the business is active and relevant.
• Owner responses add unique, keyword-relevant text to your profile and show engagement.

The honest framing

Replying to reviews won't outrank a competitor on its own, but it compounds. It keeps your profile active, encourages more customers to leave reviews, and improves the experience of everyone who lands on your listing — all of which support your local presence over time. The businesses that win here are the ones that respond consistently, not occasionally.