What are Directory Links? (+ 37 Web Directories Worth Using)

If you’ve been in the SEO game since the early 2000s, you’ll remember a popular link-building strategy was to submit business listings to web directories.

It’s true that Google has since devalued this backlink-building approach. But that doesn’t mean directory links don’t still hold some value—you just need to know where to focus your efforts.

Keen to give directory link-building a shot? Well, stick around because, in this guide, I’ll

1. explain what web directory link-building is,
2. explore why they still matter even if the SEO value isn’t like it used to be,
3. and recommend the best directories to get your business listed on today.

What is Web Directory Link-Building?

Think of web directories as the modern-day Yellow Pages. They’re websites that list businesses within specific categories or geographical areas. When you add your business to a directory, you typically get a listing that includes:

• Your business name, address, and phone number. Oftentimes, abbreviated as NAP.
• Website link (this is your directory backlink).
• Sometimes, a brief description.

The Benefits of Directory Links Today

Google’s algorithm has come a long way since the early days of mass directory submissions. While links remain important, not all links are equal. A listing on a reputable directory holds far less SEO weight than a contextual link on a high-authority niche site.

That said, web directories aren’t obsolete. They still contribute to local SEO, particularly through citations (consistent NAP listings).

So, instead of chasing directories purely for links, think of these benefits:

• Some directories get significant traffic, meaning your listing could drive clicks.
• Being listed on reputable sites makes your business look legitimate.

Psst: Already listed on directories? Think your listings could use a tune up? Here’s the perfect solution: our $7 citation audit service.

How to Choose the Right Directories for Your Business

As you search for directories, ask yourself:

• Would a customer finding me here view my business more positively?
• Does my target audience actually use this directory?
• Does the directory have an industry focus that aligns with my niche?
• Are the existing listings up-to-date?
• Is the listing process straightforward?

If the answer to all these questions is “yes,” you’ve found a suitable directory. List away!

The Top 10 Directories for Every Business

1. Google My Business

Forget about arguing with your family about whether your business shows up on “the Google.” This isn’t just a listing—it’s your key to dominating local search results. Add a business listing here, and customers will find you on autopilot.

2. Bing Places

Okay, Bing might not be your go-to search engine, but it does hold around 10 percent of the search market share. That’s nothing to blink at. So why not capture those searches and cover all your bases with a Bing Places listing? It could just be the boost your business needs.

3. Better Business Bureau

Think of the BBB as the gold star of business listings. People trust it, and a good BBB profile shows customers you’re not messing around when it comes to being a legitimate company.

4. Yellow Pages

Remember those giant phone books? Well, Yellow Pages went digital, and guess what? People still use it and trust it. It’s got that old-school, legacy authority that lends credibility to your business.

5. Yelp

Love it or hate it, Yelp is where consumers go to sound off about their experiences. Pro tip: A well-maintained Yelp listing can be your secret weapon for attracting new customers and turning happy ones into raving fans.

6. Facebook

It’s not just for sharing vacation photos anymore. People also search for businesses directly on Facebook. Make sure you’ve got an optimized page that makes it easy for customers to connect with you.

7. Foursquare for Business

If your business has a physical location people visit, Foursquare is your friend. Think of it as the app for explorers—get listed, and you might just become the hot new spot in town.

8. Chamber of Commerce

Boost your local cred with a Chamber of Commerce listing. It’s not just for networking. It also acts as a directory, getting you in front of other businesses and customers within your community.

9. Hotfrog

Need a good all-around directory with a global reach? Hotfrog’s got your back. It may not be as fancy as some options, but it’s a solid choice for getting your business out there.

10. Superpages

Another classic that’s stuck around for a reason. Superpages might not be the trendiest directory, but it’s reliable for building a foundation of online visibility.

Top 4 Home Service Directories

Plumbers, electricians, and every trade in between, these directories are where homeowners go when they’re ready to fix, upgrade, or renovate.

1. HomeAdvisor

The heavyweight of home improvement leads. If you land on HomeAdvisor’s first page, prepare yourself—a flood of new customer calls might just be your new problem.

2. Angie’s List

Reviews matter, and Angie’s List is where people go to find the businesses worthy of their hard-earned cash. Get glowing reviews here, and you’re golden.

3. Thumbtack

From fixing a leaky faucet to painting a bedroom, Thumbtack is the go-to for those smaller-scale home improvement projects. Perfect for getting your foot in the door and building up that loyal customer base.

4. Porch

Porch is all about quality over quantity. They carefully vet their pros, which means homeowners using this directory are serious about finding the right person for the job. Perfect if you pride yourself on top-notch workmanship.

Top 4 Real Estate Directories

Get ready to become the talk of the open house. Potential buyers, sellers, and renters browse these directories for listings and find their dream agents.

1. Zillow

Zillow is the real estate giant everyone knows and loves (or loves to hate!). It is a must for its sheer reach.

2. Realtor

Backed by the National Association of Realtors, this site has a reputation for accuracy. A strong profile here signals you’re a true real estate pro.

3. Trulia

Known for its user-friendly interface and neighborhood details, Trulia is the perfect place to showcase your local market expertise.

4. Redfin

A disruptor in the industry, Redfin attracts tech-savvy buyers and sellers. If you’re embracing modern marketing techniques, this directory is a good fit.

Top 4 Hospitality Directories

Get ready to pack their virtual bags. These directories are where people go to plan dream vacations, find the perfect restaurant, and discover hidden gems in your area.

1. TripAdvisor

The king of travel reviews. People flock to TripAdvisor to get the inside scoop before booking. A solid profile with great reviews here can seriously boost your bookings.

2. Booking.com

The go-to for finding the perfect place to stay. From cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels, Booking.com is where travelers compare options and lock in their dream accommodations.

3. Expedia

A giant in the online travel space. Getting listed on Expedia puts you in front of a massive audience, ready to make those travel plans a reality.

4. Orbitz

Another major player in the travel booking world. Orbitz is a great option for broadening your visibility and reaching that last-minute-booking crowd.

Top 4 Healthcare Directories

People are selective about their healthcare providers, and rightly so. These directories help patients find reliable, qualified professionals they can trust.

1. Healthgrades

Healthgrades puts a strong emphasis on credentials and patient reviews. A well-maintained profile here signals both your expertise and quality care.

2. Zocdoc

The app for booking doctor’s appointments. Zocdoc makes it easy for patients to find you and schedule conveniently, especially for those seeking immediate care.

3. Vitals

A search tool with in-depth provider profiles. Vitals allow you to showcase your specialties, insurance information, and even highlight positive patient experiences.

4. WebMD

While not purely a directory, WebMD is where many people start their health research. Claiming your profile boosts your online presence and ensures patients find accurate information about you.

Top 4 Legal Directories

These aren’t just listings. They’re platforms for building your reputation in the world of law. Get noticed by potential clients and peers alike.

1. Avvo

Avvo combines reviews with a Q&A section. Build credibility by answering legal questions in your field and showcasing positive client testimonials.

2. FindLaw

A powerhouse with a long history. FindLaw draws a serious crowd of people seeking legal help—be sure your profile highlights your areas of expertise.

3. Martindale-Hubbell

The go-to for peer-to-peer ratings. Martindale-Hubbell is where lawyers assess other lawyers, so a strong rating here carries serious weight within the industry.

4. Super Lawyers

A curated listing recognizing top attorneys. Getting included in Super Lawyers is a mark of excellence that can majorly boost your reputation.

Top 4 Automotive Directories

Whether they’ve got a broken headlight or dream car ambitions, these directories are where people go for all things automotive.

1. RepairPal

The site for finding trustworthy mechanics. RepairPal emphasizes fair pricing and quality work—perfect if that’s your shop’s specialty!

2. Cars.com

The digital car lot. Cars.com is a top destination for both new and used car searches. Dealerships, make sure your inventory is listed and looking its best.

3. YourMechanic

The “house call” mechanics. YourMechanic offers convenient, on-site repairs. A great listing if you offer mobile services.

4. Towing.com

Let’s face it, nobody plans on needing a tow. But when they do, you want to be the company they find. Towing.com puts you in front of drivers in desperate need of help.

Top 4 Education Directories

From preschool to grad school, these directories help parents and students navigate the world of educational options.

1. GreatSchools

A trusted resource with in-depth school profiles and parent reviews. GreatSchools is where families go for serious research, so highlight what makes your program stand out.

2. Niche

Known for its detailed rankings and data. Niche is a great tool for showcasing your academic excellence, especially if you cater to college-bound students.

3. Care.com

The go-to for finding childcare, tutors, and other care-related services. Care.com emphasizes safety and trust, so make sure your profile reflects those core values.

4. KinderCare

A major player in early childhood education. While primarily for their own centers, KinderCare’s website often includes resources for parents, boosting your local visibility in that niche.

Outsource Directory Work: Save Time, Get Expert Results

Let’s face it—keeping up with directory listings is a drag. If you’d rather spend your time actually running your business (and who wouldn’t?), outsourcing is your sanity-saver. That’s where the pros at Loganix come in.

We’ll find all the best directories, get you listed, and make sure everything looks its best. All that boring admin work? Off your plate.

🚀 Head over to our local citation-building service, and let’s get that website of yours ranking! 🚀