Google and Yahoo Neck and Neck in Local Search

The local search market in the United States is on an ascendant trend and continually gaining momentum, with Google and Yahoo neck and neck. In this regard, comScore Networks made public, via a press release, the findings of a study revealing the 63% of US Internet users introduced a local search query in July 2006. The figure is equivalent to 109 million people. Google accounted for 29.8% of the local search market, while Yahoo is runner up with 29.2%. Microsoft websites and Time Warner Network rounded up the third and fourth position with 12% and 7% of the local searches.

"Local search is experiencing strong growth as more consumers adapt to the 'always on' nature of their broadband connection, which enables them to quickly find information on local businesses," said Jack Flanagan, executive vice president of comScore Media Metrix. "With approximately 849 million local searches conducted by Americans in July, local advertisers have a sizable market that can be reached through leading search sites."

Moreover, comScore indicated by the metrics of a Search Satisfaction study that 41% of participants actively involved in performing local searches were motivated by the need to identify locations in their home areas. In this context, 59% of local searches were conducted in relation with entertainment related subjects.