The mechanics are the same. The scope is narrower, and the goal is cleaner. In Vancouver or Portland, you're competing for visibility across dozens of neighborhoods with dozens of locksmiths actively working on their local SEO. In Battle Ground, you're trying to own one market, and most of your competitors haven't done the work yet.
That's the real advantage of Battle Ground locksmith local SEO right now. The same GBP optimization, review generation, and local content work that might get you into the top 5 in Vancouver is enough to make you the clear top result in Battle Ground. A smaller pond with the same tactics produces a better outcome faster.