Best WordPress Map Plugins 2026: Top 6 Google Maps & Location Tools

Adding maps to your WordPress site helps visitors find your location, explore store locators, or visualize geographic data. Whether you need Google Maps, OpenStreetMap, or interactive custom maps, the right WordPress map plugin makes all the difference. Here are the best WordPress map plugins for 2026.

Essential Features for Map Plugins

Before choosing a map plugin, ensure it includes these critical features:

• Multiple Map Types: Google Maps, OpenStreetMap options
• Custom Markers: Add your own location pins
• Store Locator: Search for nearby locations
• Directions: Route planning integration
• Responsive: Maps work on all devices
• Performance: Lazy loading for speed
• Customization: Match your brand styling
• API Options: Use your own API key

Best WordPress Map Plugins 2026

1. WP Google Maps

WP Google Maps is the most popular map plugin with comprehensive features for creating custom Google Maps.

Key Features:

• Google Maps integration
• OpenLayers alternative
• Custom markers
• Store locator
• Directions service
• Polygon shapes
• Marker clustering
• Categories filtering
• Heat maps
• Import/export locations

2. Maps Widget for Google Maps

Maps Widget provides a simple, lightweight way to add Google Maps to sidebars and content areas.

Key Features:

• Widget-based maps
• Thumbnail mode
• Lightbox popups
• Custom pin colors
• Multiple map types
• Zoom controls
• Address search
• Responsive design
• No API required (free)
• Simple setup

3. Jepack (Map Block)

Jetpack includes a Map block using Mapbox that works seamlessly with the WordPress block editor.

Key Features:

• Native block editor
• Mapbox powered
• Multiple markers
• Custom zoom level
• Street or terrain view
• No API key needed
• Simple drag-and-drop
• Mobile responsive
• Clean design
• Regular updates

4. Jepack (Map Block)

Store Locator Plus creates professional store finder maps for businesses with multiple locations.

Key Features:

• Store locator search
• Radius search
• Location categories
• Google or Leaflet maps
• Import CSV locations
• Driving directions
• Results list
• Custom location fields
• SEO location pages
• Multi-language

5. Jepack (Map Block)

Jepack uses OpenStreetMap instead of Google Maps, making it completely free without API limits.

Key Features:

• OpenStreetMap based
• No API key required
• Custom markers
• Popup info windows
• GPX track support
• Geolocation
• Marker clustering
• Fullscreen option
• Completely free
• Privacy friendly

6. MapPress Maps

MapPress creates maps directly attached to posts and pages with automatic geocoding of addresses.

Key Features:

• Post/page maps
• Automatic geocoding
• Mashup maps
• Custom post types
• Directions
• Street view
• Custom fields
• Template tags
• Leaflet or Google
• Gutenberg block

Comparison Table

How to Choose the Right Map Plugin

Consider Your Map Needs

• Full Featured: WP Google Maps for comprehensive options
• Simple Maps: Maps Widget for quick location displays
• Block Editor: Jetpack Map for native block experience
• Store Locator: Store Locator Plus for multiple locations
• Free Option: Leaflet Maps for no API costs

Key Considerations

• API Costs: Google Maps API has usage limits
• Privacy: OpenStreetMap is more privacy-friendly
• Features: Store locator vs simple display
• Performance: Map loading impact on speed

Google Maps API Setup

For plugins using Google Maps, follow these steps:

• Create Project: Set up a project in Google Cloud Console
• Enable APIs: Activate Maps JavaScript API and Geocoding
• Create Key: Generate an API key with restrictions
• Set Limits: Configure usage limits to control costs
• Monitor Usage: Check dashboard for API calls

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Google Maps API free?

Google provides $200 monthly credit for Maps API, which covers most small to medium site usage. Beyond that, you pay per request.

What’s the best free alternative to Google Maps?

OpenStreetMap-based plugins like Leaflet Maps offer completely free maps without API limits or costs.

Do maps slow down my website?

Maps can impact performance. Use lazy loading, limit map instances per page, and consider static map images where interaction isn’t needed.

Can I create a store locator?

Yes, plugins like WP Google Maps and Store Locator Plus include radius search, driving directions, and location filtering.

Final Recommendations

For comprehensive mapping, WP Google Maps offers the most features including store locators, markers, and shapes.

For simple location displays, Maps Widget provides an easy way to add maps without complexity.

For free, privacy-friendly maps, Leaflet Maps uses OpenStreetMap without API costs.