Does how recent your reviews are matter for SEO?

Short answer

Yes. Freshness counts. A steady stream of recent reviews signals to Google — and to customers — that your business is active and currently well-regarded. A wall of five-stars that all stopped two years ago looks stale.

Why recency helps

• Recent reviews weigh into local ranking freshness signals.
• Customers trust current reviews far more than old ones.
• Momentum shows the business is alive and busy.

This is why review generation is an ongoing habit, not a one-time push. A handful of new reviews every month does more for you than a big burst followed by silence.