Top 10 Best Blogging Websites to Start Your Blog in 2025 (Free & Paid Options)

Blogging is still one of the best ways to share your ideas, tell stories, and even earn money in 2025. Many people—from students to business owners—are starting blogs to connect with others, build a brand, or grow a side income. And guess what? You can do it too!

Today, blogging platforms have become smarter, easier, and more fun to use. Some offer great tools to help your blog rank on Google. Others give you ways to earn money through ads or subscriptions. So, it’s easier than ever to start a blog that people love to read.

But we know choosing the right platform can be tricky. Maybe you’re just starting and want something simple and free. Or maybe you want advanced tools to grow a big blog or website. No matter your skill level or budget, there’s a perfect blogging site for you.

That’s why we made this helpful guide. It lists the top 10 best blogging websites, both free and paid. You’ll learn about the pros and cons, cool features, and who each platform is best for.

You’ll also find a quick comparison table and easy tips to help you choose. Whether you want full control like WordPress.org or a quick start with Medium, this list covers it all.

So, let’s jump in and help you pick the best blogging site for your journey in 2025!

Why Choosing the Right Blogging Platform Matters in 2025

Picking the right blogging platform is a big first step to your blogging success. In 2025, it’s more important than ever. A good platform makes things easy. It helps you write, share, and grow. It also lets your blog shine on phones, tablets, and laptops. That’s called mobile responsiveness—and it matters today!

Did you know that over 77% of internet users read blogs regularly in 2024? That number keeps going up. So, if you choose the best platform to blog, more people can find and enjoy your content.

But here’s the thing—not all blogging websites are the same. Some are simple, while others have lots of cool blogging tools. The right one depends on your goal. Want to share stories for fun? Use something easy. Want to earn money or get found on Google? Choose one with strong SEO features and monetization tools.

Also, think about the future. Will your blog grow? Will you add more pages, posts, or even a store? That’s where scalability comes in. A good platform grows with you!

If you’re just starting, look for beginner blogging tips and platforms that guide you. If you’re more advanced, pick one that gives you more control.

In short, the platform you choose shapes your journey. So take time, try a few, and pick the one that fits you best. It’s the first step toward a blog you’ll be proud of!

Quick Comparison Table: Top Blogging Platforms (2025 Edition)

Choosing from the many blogging websites can feel tricky. That’s why we made a simple table to help you pick fast! This table shows the top blogging platforms in 2025. It tells you who they’re best for, if they’re free or paid, how you can make money, and how well they do in SEO.

Use this chart to find the one that fits your blog goals—whether you’re a beginner, a pro, or someone in between.

This table makes it easy to compare top blogging platforms at a glance. Pick the one that suits your needs, and you’re ready to start blogging!

1. WordPress.org – Best for Full Control and Customization

If you want full control of your blog, WordPress.org is the best pick. It’s a self-hosted WordPress platform, which means you own everything on your blog. You can change how it looks, add cool features, and even make money.

To use WordPress.org, you need a domain name and a hosting plan. That’s where your blog lives online. But don’t worry—it’s easy to set up and doesn’t cost too much.

One big win with WordPress.org is the number of SEO plugins and tools. You can use plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math to help your blog show up in Google searches. Want to earn money? Add blog monetization tools like AdSense or affiliate links with simple plugins.

Let’s look at the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Total control of your blog

• Thousands of free and paid themes

• Great tools for SEO and making money

Cons:

• You must buy hosting

• You handle updates and backups

Even though it takes a bit more work, WordPress.org gives you the most freedom. You can grow your blog as big as you want. It’s great for beginners who want to learn and perfect for pros who want to go big.

Want to start today? Check out our guide: How to Create A Blog for FREE That Earns You Money

With WordPress.org, your blog can grow, earn, and shine—just the way you dream it!

2. Wix – Best Drag-and-Drop Website Builder for Bloggers

If you love to click, drag, and create, then Wix is made for you. It’s one of the most beginner-friendly blogging platforms out there. You don’t need to know any coding. Just use the visual editor, and build your blog the way you like!

Wix gives you lots of ready-to-use templates. These templates help your blog look clean, fun, or stylish—whatever you want! You can change colors, fonts, and pictures easily. Plus, Wix has an app market where you can add cool tools to your site, like chat boxes or email sign-ups.

Want to earn money from your blog? Wix lets you do that too. You can sell products, show ads, or use paid memberships. That means more ways to grow and earn!

Let’s look at the best parts of Wix:

Awesome Features:

• Easy drag-and-drop visual editor

• 800+ beautiful templates

• Huge app market to add extra tools

• Monetization options like ads, shops, and more

But remember, Wix has a free plan with limited features. If you want your domain name or to remove ads, you’ll need a paid plan.

Still, it’s a great place to start if you want a fun and fast way to build a blog.

Need help choosing a design? Don’t miss our post: Top 10 Wix Templates for Personal Blogs

With Wix, blogging becomes easy, fun, and creative—perfect for any beginner ready to shine online!

3. Medium – Best for Writers Focused on Readership

Do you love to write and want people to read your stories right away? Then Medium is the perfect writer platform for you. With Medium blogging, you don’t need to worry about website design or hosting. You just sign up, write, and share!

One of the best things about Medium is its built-in audience. Millions of people already visit Medium every day to read blog posts. So when you write something great, it’s easier for others to find and enjoy it. That means you can grow your audience reach faster.

Want to make money too? Medium offers a Partner Program. When people read your posts and stay longer, you earn money based on how much time they spend. No need to sell anything—just write and get rewarded!

Let’s look at why Medium works well:

Why Writers Love Medium:

• No need for hosting or design work

• Easy to use for all ages

• Huge built-in audience

• Money-making with the Partner Program

But keep in mind, you can’t customize your blog like other platforms. Your posts will look like every other Medium post. Still, it’s a great way to focus on your words and connect with readers.

So, if writing is your superpower and you want to reach people fast, Medium makes it simple.

With Medium, your blog can grow just by doing what you love—writing!

4. WordPress.com – Good Free Option with Upgrades

WordPress.com is a great place to start if you’re new to blogging websites. It’s different from WordPress.org. With WordPress.com, you don’t need to buy hosting or worry about updates. Everything is already set up for you. Just make an account, pick a theme, and start writing!

The free plan gives you a blog with a WordPress name, like myblog.wordpress.com. It also has simple tools and themes to help you get started fast. This is great for beginners who want to test things out before spending money.

But if you want more features, you can upgrade. Paid plans let you use your domain name, remove ads, and add more design tools. Still, you won’t get full control like you do with WordPress.org.

Let’s break it down:

Free Plan:

• Great for beginners

• Easy setup

• Hosted by WordPress

• Basic tools and themes

Paid Plans:

• Custom domain name

• Extra storage and design tools

• More control over your blog

Just remember, WordPress.com gives you less freedom. You can’t install outside plugins or themes unless you’re on the highest paid plan. But it’s a safe and easy way to learn how blogging works.

So if you want to start small and grow step by step, WordPress.com is a smart choice. You can always upgrade later as your blog gets bigger and better!

5. Blogger – Simple and Free with Google Integration

Blogger is one of the oldest and easiest blogging websites you can use. It’s a Google blogging platform, so if you already have a Google account, you can start blogging in just a few clicks! That makes it perfect for beginners who want a quick and simple start.

Blogger has a free and simple interface. You don’t need to install anything or pay for hosting. Just sign in, pick a template, and write your first post. Everything is easy to find and use—even for kids or first-time bloggers.

One of the best parts? You can monetize with AdSense! Since Blogger is owned by Google, it works smoothly with AdSense. This means you can show ads on your blog and earn money when people click on them.

Let’s look at some Blogger pros and cons:

Pros:

• 100% free

• Very easy to set up and use

• Google tools work great with it

• Monetization is simple with AdSense

Cons:

• Limited design choices

• Fewer updates and new features

• Less control than other platforms

Still, Blogger is a great choice for hobby writers and niche bloggers. It gives you the basics without any stress.

Want to know more? Check out our post: Why Blogger Still Works for Niche Bloggers in 2025

So, if you want something simple, free, and connected to Google, Blogger is a great place to begin your blogging journey!

6. Ghost – Best for Tech-Savvy Bloggers & Newsletters

If you love tech and want to send updates by email, then Ghost might be the best pick for you. It’s an open-source CMS, which means it’s a free tool that smart people can change and improve. Ghost is made for blogging for newsletters, and it’s great if you want to grow an email list and send posts right to readers’ inboxes.

Ghost blogs are SEO-friendly and super fast-loading, so your posts show up quickly and can rank well on search engines like Google. That means more people can find your blog!

What makes Ghost extra special is its built-in membership and mailing system. You don’t need extra tools. You can let people sign up, pay for content, and get emails—all from one place.

Here’s why Ghost is awesome:

What You Get with Ghost:

• Easy tools for blogging for newsletters

• Fast blog speed for happy readers

• Clean look with no clutter

• All-in-one system for sign-ups, emails, and payments

But Ghost does need a little tech skill. You might need help setting it up if you’re just starting. It’s better for people who like playing with tech stuff.

So, if you’re a bit tech-savvy and want a clean, modern blog with smart tools, Ghost is a great option. It helps you focus on writing, sending updates, and building a loyal group of readers—all in one neat place!

7. Squarespace – Best for Visual Storytelling Blogs

If you love pretty pictures and telling stories with style, Squarespace is a great blogging website to try. It’s made for creatives, artists, and anyone who wants their blog to look amazing. Many people use it for art, photography, and portfolio blogs.

Squarespace gives you lots of beautiful templates. Each one looks clean and modern. You can pick a design and make it your own. No need to know coding! It also has built-in features like photo galleries, video blocks, and even online stores. Everything works together, so your blog feels smooth and fun.

Unlike some other platforms, Squarespace is a paid-only model. That means there’s no free plan. But you do get a lot for your money. You get hosting, design tools, and customer support all in one.

Here’s why people like Squarespace:

Great Things About Squarespace:

• Amazing look with no extra work

• Easy tools for writing, photos, and videos

• Great for showing off creative work

• Helpful support if you need it

But, it’s not the best for deep customization or advanced SEO tools. And since there’s no free version, it might not be ideal for those on a tight budget.

Still, if you want a blog that wows people with its design, Squarespace is perfect. It helps you tell your story beautifully—one photo, word, or video at a time!

8. Weebly – User-Friendly Blogging Tool for Small Businesses

If you want a blog that’s easy to use and works for your shop too, Weebly is a smart choice. It’s a user-friendly blogging tool that many small businesses love. You can create a blog and an online store on the same website—how cool is that?

Weebly has a simple UI, which means everything is easy to click and find. You don’t need to know anything about tech. Just drag, drop, and type. It’s perfect if you’re just starting and want something that works without stress.

While the blogging tools are limited, they’re enough for basic posts. You can add text, photos, and videos. But you won’t get the fancy features that other blogging websites offer. Still, it gets the job done if blogging is not your main focus.

What makes Weebly special is its ecommerce/blog hybrid setup. You can sell products and share blog posts all in one place. This makes it great for artists, bakers, or anyone with a small online shop.

And guess what? It’s budget-friendly too. Weebly’s pricing is affordable, and it even has a free plan to get started.

Why Weebly Works:

• Easy design and setup

• Perfect for shops with blogs

• Low-cost plans

• All-in-one dashboard

So, if you’re a small business owner who wants to blog and sell online, Weebly makes it simple and smooth. It’s a helpful tool that lets you do both, without breaking the bank!

9. Substack – Best for Bloggers Focused on Email Newsletters

If you love sending updates by email and want to grow a list of loyal readers, Substack is a great choice. Many people use Substack for blogging because it’s simple and powerful. You can write, publish, and send your blog posts directly to your readers’ inboxes—all in one place.

Substack is perfect if you want to build a strong voice and share personal stories or expert advice. It’s also amazing for personal branding. Your name and content stand out, and people follow you for what you write.

One of the best parts about Substack is newsletter monetization. You can offer paid subscriptions, so your biggest fans can support you monthly. It’s a great way to earn money by simply writing great content.

Substack is super easy to use. No need for coding, hosting, or extra tools. Just sign up, write, and hit “send.” That’s why many new and pro writers love it.

Why Substack Shines:

• Simple setup with no tech stuff

• Built-in email delivery system

• Great for newsletter monetization

• Ideal for personal blogs and small brands

But remember, Substack doesn’t offer much design control. Your blog will look similar to others. Still, if your focus is on writing and email, it’s one of the best blogging websites out there.

So, if you want to grow your voice and earn with words, Substack makes it simple and strong!

10. LinkedIn Articles – Blogging for Professionals

If you want to write for business people or share smart ideas, LinkedIn Articles is a great tool. It’s not like other blogging websites, but it’s perfect for thought leadership and reaching a B2B audience.

LinkedIn is full of working professionals. So when you post an article there, your words go straight to people in your field. This means you get a built-in professional audience without needing to find one yourself.

You won’t find fancy blog themes or extra tools on LinkedIn. That’s because it doesn’t have dedicated blogging features. But what it lacks in design, it makes up for in organic reach. Your posts can be seen by many people, especially if others like or comment on them.

Why Use LinkedIn Articles:

• Easy to write and publish

• Great for showing your skills and knowledge

• Built-in network of professionals

• No setup or cost

It’s a smart pick for people who want to grow their brand, build trust, or share career tips. You just log in, click “Write article,” and start typing. That’s it!

So, if you’re a coach, expert, or business owner, try LinkedIn. It’s simple, powerful, and connects you with the right people.

LinkedIn may not be a full blog platform, but it helps you shine in the business world—one article at a time!

How to Choose the Right Blogging Platform for Your Goals

Picking the right blogging website depends on what you want to do. Are you writing just for fun? Are you starting a business? Or do you want to earn money with links and ads? Let’s break it down.

First, think about your purpose. If you’re sharing stories or hobbies, go for a simple blog like Medium or Blogger. But if it’s for your business or brand, you might need something bigger, like WordPress.org or Squarespace. Want to earn with affiliate links? Then you’ll need more tools and control.

Next, ask yourself how much you want to customize. Do you want to pick your colors, fonts, and layout? Some platforms, like Wix or WordPress, let you do that. Others, like Medium, don’t offer many design choices.

Also, think about monetization. If you want to make money, look for blogs with ad tools, shopping features, or paid subscriptions—like Ghost, Substack, or WordPress.

Don’t forget your tech skills. Are you okay with setting up hosting and plugins? Then WordPress.org is great. But if you want things done fast with no tech stuff, try Weebly or LinkedIn Articles.

Tip: You can even use a flowchart to help decide. Ask simple questions like:

• Do I want to make money?

• Do I want full design control?

• Do I need a built-in audience?

Once you answer these, you’ll know what blogging platform fits your goal. Start with your needs, and the right tool will follow!

Key Factors to Consider in 2025

Choosing the right blogging website in 2025 means looking at what matters most to you. Start with your blog’s purpose. Is it just for fun? Then something simple like Medium or Blogger may work. If it’s for your business or to earn money through affiliate links, you’ll need a stronger platform like WordPress.org or Ghost.

Next, check the SEO support. Good SEO tools help your blog show up on Google. Platforms like WordPress and Wix have great plugins that make this easy, even for beginners.

Also, think about monetization tools. Do you want to earn money with ads, products, or paid readers? Pick a blog platform that supports ads (like Blogger), shops (like Weebly), or subscriptions (like Substack and Ghost).

Don’t forget about mobile responsiveness. Your blog should look good on phones and tablets. Most readers use their phones, so this is super important in 2025!

One more thing—many blogging websites now work with AI tools. These tools can help you write, edit, and even plan your content. It saves time and helps you post better blogs faster.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• What’s your goal? (Personal, Business, or Affiliate)

• Does it have good SEO tools?

• Can you make money from it?

• Does it look good on mobile?

• Can it work with AI tools?

Pick a platform that checks most of these boxes—and you’ll be set to blog like a pro in 2025!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best free blogging platform for beginners in 2025?

WordPress.com and Blogger are great free options for beginners. They are easy to set up, user-friendly, and offer basic tools to start blogging without technical skills.

2. Can I monetize my blog on a free platform?

Yes, but with limitations. Blogger allows AdSense integration for free users. Medium offers its Partner Program. However, paid platforms like WordPress.org give more control and options for monetization.

3. What’s the difference between WordPress.com and WordPress.org?

WordPress.com is hosted by WordPress with limited control and a free plan. WordPress.org is self-hosted, offering full control, plugin access, and better blog monetization options—but it requires separate hosting.

4. Is Medium better than having your blog?

Medium is great for writers focused on audience reach and simplicity. But it offers less design freedom and monetization control compared to having your blog via platforms like WordPress.org.

5. Which blogging website is best for SEO in 2025?

WordPress.org is considered the best for SEO due to its flexibility with SEO plugins and full control. Ghost is another strong option with built-in SEO features and fast-loading pages.

6. Which blogging platform is ideal for creatives and portfolio blogs?

Squarespace is perfect for creatives, artists, and photographers. It offers beautiful templates, built-in features, and an all-in-one solution, but it comes with a paid-only model.

7. Can I start a blog without any technical skills?

Yes! Platforms like Wix, Weebly, and WordPress.com are ideal for beginners. They have drag-and-drop editors, pre-built templates, and don’t require coding knowledge.

8. What’s the best blogging platform for email newsletters and subscriptions?

Substack and Ghost are top picks. They support newsletter monetization, email delivery, and built-in membership systems, making them ideal for content creators and personal brands.

9. Which blogging site is best for professionals and B2B content?

LinkedIn Articles are excellent for professional blogging, especially in the B2B space. You can reach a built-in audience without setting up a separate website.

10. How do I choose the right blogging platform for my goals?

First, decide your blog’s purpose—personal, business, or affiliate. Then consider customization, monetization tools, mobile responsiveness, and your tech comfort level. See our platform comparison table for help!

Final Thoughts: Start Strong with the Right Blogging Website

Finding the best blogging website doesn’t have to be hard. In this post, we shared the top 10 blogging platforms to help you begin your journey in 2025.

If you want full control and top SEO tools, WordPress.org is a great choice. Wix and Squarespace are perfect for drag-and-drop lovers. Medium and Substack are great for writers who just want to share ideas and grow their audience. Blogger and Weebly work well if you want something simple and free. And if you love newsletters, Substack and Ghost will make things super easy.

Each platform has its special features. Some are better for beginners. Others offer strong tools for pros. That’s why it’s okay to test a few before you pick one. Many blogging websites have free trials or starter plans. So don’t rush—try, explore, and learn what works best for you.

Also, don’t forget what your blog needs. Do you want to make money? Do you care about SEO? Or do you just want a space to share your stories? Pick the one that fits your goal and style.

And now comes the fun part—starting your blog!

Ready to launch your blog? Explore our step-by-step guides on setting up and growing your blog in 2025.

Start small. Dream big. And let your words shine online!