Meta Ads vs. Google Ads: What’s Best for Your Business?

If you're a small business owner on Long Island—or anywhere, really—you’ve probably wondered:

Should I be running Meta Ads (Facebook + Instagram) or Google Ads? 🤔

The short answer?

💡 It depends on your goals, your audience, and how people shop for what you offer.

Let’s break it down in real terms (no fluff, just facts):

🎯 Google Ads: Intent-Based Marketing at Its Best

Google Ads are what we call “intent-driven”. That means people are actively searching for your product or service.

Example: Someone searches “best chiropractor in Merrick”

➡️ Boom! That’s your cue to show up front and center with a well-placed Google Ad.

Best for:

Service providers (dentists, therapists, HVAC, etc.)

Local brick-and-mortar stores

Time-sensitive solutions (emergency plumbing, urgent care, etc.)

Pros:

High buyer intent = warmer leads

Local targeting is 🔥

Keyword strategy helps SEO too

Cons:

Can be pricey per click if not optimized

Text-focused (less visual appeal)

📱 Meta Ads: Scrolling into Your Customer’s Feed

Meta (Facebook + Instagram) Ads are all about discovery and awareness. These ads pop into your audience’s feed while they’re scrolling—so your product or service becomes a delightful interruption (if done right).

Best for:

Restaurants, salons, childcare, med spas

Visual brands (food, beauty, wellness)

Promotions, events, giveaways

Pros:

Eye-catching visuals & video = more engagement

Great for brand-building

Strong retargeting options (hello, abandoned cart saviors!)

Cons:

Lower buying intent

Needs ongoing creative refreshes to stay relevant

🥊 So… Which One Wins?

Honestly? Both have their place in a smart, strategic marketing plan.

Here’s how we recommend choosing:

Goal Go With...

Get booked for services Google Ads

Build local brand awareness Meta Ads

Promote a grand opening Meta + Google

Drive traffic to your website Both (with SEO magic too!)

Collect leads fast Google Ads

Stay top of mind Meta Retargeting

🪄 JMDM Pro Tip:

🔥 Use Meta + Google together for full-funnel coverage.

Start with Meta to spark interest… then let Google seal the deal when they search for you later!

💬 Final Thoughts

Every business is different. The best ad strategy is the one built around your goals, audience, and budget.

Not sure where to start? That’s where we come in.

Let’s make some local marketing magic ✨