Yelp vs Google LSA: which one brings the best leads?

How they stack up, side by side

We scored Yelp and Google Local Services Ads on six things that matter most: lead quality, cost per lead, how fast you get your first job, how easy it is to set up, refund protection, and how well it works in small markets. Higher is better.

How each one works

Yelp

Yelp is the review-driven directory. You pay per click. Some clicks turn into jobs, others don't.

The way you actually use it:

1. Make a free Yelp business page.
2. Add photos, services, and ask happy customers for reviews.
3. Turn on paid ads to show at the top of search.
4. Use Yelp Connect to get messages straight to your phone.

Google Local Services Ads

Google LSA puts you at the very top of search results. You only pay when a customer calls you or messages you. Highest intent of any paid channel.

The way you actually use it:

1. Apply to Google. Send your license, insurance, and a background check.
2. Wait for "Google Guaranteed" status.
3. Set your budget and service areas.
4. Customers call or message you. You pay only for those.

Which one pays back more?

Use the sliders below. Put in your average job price and how many leads you can handle in a month. The two cards show which platform looks better for your numbers.

What each one does best (and worst)

Yelp - strengths

• People trust Yelp reviews. Good reviews can fill your calendar.
• Most leads have already read about you before they reach out.
• Works great if your average job is $300 or more.

Yelp - weaknesses

• Ads can cost $5 to $15 per click. Costs add up fast.
• Some leads send the same message to many pros. You have to be fast.
• Hard to track which clicks turn into real jobs.

Google Local Services Ads - strengths

• Highest intent of any paid channel. People call you, ready to buy.
• You only pay for real leads. Not clicks.
• You show up above regular Google ads. Best spot on the page.
• Google "guarantees" you. Customers trust that.

Google Local Services Ads - weaknesses

• You must pass background and license checks. Can take weeks.
• Not every city has it for every trade. Limited inventory.
• Competing with the same pros every day. Costs creep up.

Which one fits your business?

Four quick questions. Honest answers. We add up the points and tell you which one to start with.

The bottom line

Google LSA usually wins for home-services trades. Yelp is still strong, but LSA leads are more ready to buy.

Pick Yelp when…

• You're not eligible for LSA (or your trade isn't covered).
• You have strong existing reviews on Yelp.
• You serve a market where LSA inventory is low.

Pick Google Local Services Ads when…

• You're a home-services pro (plumber, HVAC, electrician, roofer, etc.).
• You can pass the background and license check.
• You want to pay only for real calls, not clicks.

Common questions

Is Google LSA always better than Yelp?

For home-services trades that qualify, usually yes. LSA leads call you, ready to buy. Yelp leads click your ad and might or might not call.

How long does it take to get on Google LSA?

Often 2 to 6 weeks. Google checks your license, insurance, and runs a background check on the owner. It's slower than Yelp.

Should I run both Yelp and LSA?

Yes, for most home-services pros. LSA fills your "hot" lead bucket. Yelp adds steady volume. Just track each one separately.

What if LSA isn't available in my city?

Then Yelp is your best paid local channel - plus Google Ads to fill the LSA gap. Watch LSA inventory monthly - Google keeps expanding.