Google My Business Website: What Changed in 2024?

If you’re a small business owner looking to boost your online visibility, you’ve probably heard about Google My Business (GMB). You may even wonder, “Is Google My Business website free?” The short answer: It was — but it’s no longer available as of 2024. This article will break down what happened, why, and what you can do instead in 2025.

Introduction to Google My Business (GMB)

What Is Google My Business?

Google My Business, now officially known as Google Business Profile, is a free tool that lets business owners manage their presence on Google Search and Google Maps. It allows businesses to:

• Display contact information
• Add photos and posts
• Collect and respond to customer reviews
• Show hours of operation
• Link to their website

Purpose for Local SEO and Visibility

The main goal of GMB is to improve local SEO, helping businesses appear in “near me” searches. Google prioritizes verified, active Business Profiles — even more so if linked to a professional website.

Overview of GMB Website Feature

What Was the GMB Website Tool?

Until March 2024, Google allowed users to create a free, one-page website directly from their GMB dashboard. It pulled business info from your profile and created a simple, mobile-friendly site in minutes.

How It Worked for Local Businesses

Small businesses, especially those without tech know-how or budget, loved this feature. It served as a free landing page with auto-updated info pulled from GMB — no coding required.

Is Google My Business Website Still Available?

2024 Shutdown Announcement

In March 2024, Google shut down the GMB website builder. All auto-generated websites were removed permanently from public view.

🔔 Users visiting the site were redirected to the business’s Google Business Profile on Maps/Search — until June 2024.

Alternatives Offered by Google

Google encouraged businesses to:

• Use Google Sites
• Link to third-party website builders like Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify
• Focus on optimizing their Business Profile

Why Did Google Retire the GMB Website?

Reasons Behind the Decision

• Low adoption compared to other Google tools
• Limited functionality and customization
• Overlap with other products (Google Sites, Google Domains)

Focus on Maps and Search Listings

Google is doubling down on improving Maps integration, local pack visibility, and Business Profile tools rather than maintaining a basic site builder.

What Replaces the GMB Website?

Google Business Profiles

Now, your GMB profile becomes your main digital presence on Google — where customers find directions, call, read reviews, and browse updates.

Third-Party Website Builders

Google recommends creating a website using platforms like:

• Wix
• WordPress.com
• Weebly
• Square Online

You can link your Business Profile to these sites for added visibility.

Can You Still Access Your Old GMB Website?

Redirect Policies

Until June 2024, visitors to your old .business.site were redirected to your Business Profile.

What Happens to Old Links?

After that deadline, all .business.site URLs were disabled completely, showing a 404 error.

Are Any Google Website Tools Still Free?

Google Sites Overview

Google Sites remains free and active. You can use it to create:

• Intranet sites
• Landing pages
• Simple business portfolios

Features and Limitations of Google Sites

Best Free Alternatives to GMB Website

Here are top free website builders you can use now:

1. Wix – Drag-and-drop, stunning templates (with ads on free plan)
2. Weebly – Simple to use, ideal for restaurants or shops
3. Square Online – Great for free online stores
4. WordPress.com – Blog-focused, customizable themes

GMB Website vs Free Builders Comparison

SEO Benefits of GMB Without Website

You can still rank locally without a website if your Google Business Profile is well-optimized:

• Add a complete business description
• Upload high-quality images
• Post regular updates
• Collect positive reviews
• Choose accurate categories

These help boost your local ranking — even without an external website.

Should You Pay for a Website Builder Now?

When to Stick to Free

• You’re just starting out
• Budget is tight
• You only need basic online presence

When to Invest in Custom Domains

• You want professional branding
• You plan to scale or sell products/services
• You want SEO control and analytics

FAQs About Google My Business Website

Q1: Is the Google My Business website still available?
No, Google retired the feature in March 2024.

Q2: Was the GMB website free before shutdown?
Yes, it was completely free with limited features.

Q3: Can I still view my old .business.site website?
No, all old links are now disabled.

Q4: Does Google still offer any free website tools?
Yes, Google Sites is still free.

Q5: What’s the best free alternative now?
Wix and Weebly are excellent free choices for small businesses.

Q6: Is a website necessary for Google Business Profile?
Not required, but having a linked website boosts trust and SEO.

The Role of a Website in Local SEO

Websites offer better:

• Indexing by Google
• Content targeting via blog/articles
• Call-to-action features
• Lead capture (contact forms, bookings)

Mobile-friendly websites are especially important for conversion rates.

Google Business Profile Tips

• Keep hours and contact info updated
• Post weekly updates
• Use real customer photos
• Respond to reviews — even negative ones
• Fill out every section completely

Final Thoughts – What Local Businesses Should Do Now

So, is Google My Business website free? It used to be — but not anymore. Google has shifted its strategy toward Business Profiles and third-party integrations. The best move in 2025? Create a free or affordable website with platforms like Wix or WordPress, and link it to your Business Profile for a complete local SEO package.