Top 10 Best Blogging Platforms in 2025 Picked by Experts

Key highlights 

• Explore the best blogging platforms of 2025 to find the best fit for your content goals, tech skills and monetization plans. 
• Learn how Bluehost WonderSuite uses Gen AI to streamline blog setup, enhance SEO with smart recommendations and integrate monetization tools – all from a beginner-friendly dashboard. 
• Understand the strengths and limitations of each platform by comparing blogging features like customization, SEO tools, third-party integrations and pricing.
• Know which platforms support eCommerce and monetization through subscriptions, affiliate links, digital products and ad networks. 
• Uncover expert insights on choosing the right platform based on budget, growth potential and the type of blog you want to build. 

In 2008, Pat Flynn lost his job and started a blog. What started as a way to share his knowledge soon became ‘Smart Passive Income’, a multi-million-dollar brand. 

He often says, “The riches are in the niches, but the fortune is in the follow-up.” And his story proves it. But what helped him succeed? The right blogging platform. In 2025, if you’re a content creator, coach or side hustler, choosing the best blogging platforms can be your defining moment too. 

This guide breaks down the best blogging platform to make money and the best platform to start a blog if you’re serious about turning content into income.  

Let’s explore the top blogging platforms of 2025, tailored to your goals, technical skill level and budget—so you can start smart and scale fast. 

10 best blogging platforms: A side-by-side comparison 

With so many blogging tools and platforms out there, comparing them side by side can save you hours of research. Here’s a table that outlines what features best blog platforms offer to help you monetize in 2025. So, you can quickly evaluate which one fits your goals. 

Feature / platform	Bluehost WonderSuite	WordPress.org	Squarespace	Wix	Medium	Substack	Blogger.com	HubSpot CMS	Ghost	Weebly
Ease of use	Easiest	Moderate	Easy	Very easy	Easiest	Easiest	Very Easy	Easy	Moderate	Very Easy
Customization	Limited	Full control	Moderate	Flexible	Minimal	Minimal	Basic	Advanced	Developer-grade	Basic
SEO tools	Advanced	Advanced	Basic	Easy	Limited	Limited	Basic	Advanced	Strong	Basic
Monetization	Many options	Many options	Some	Basic	Partner Program	Newsletters	Ads & affiliate	Lead generation	Subs & donations	Affiliate sales
Hosting	Included	Self-hosted	Included	Included	Included	Included	Included	Included	Optional	Included
Custom domain	Yes (Free)	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	Workaround	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Integrations	Extensive	Extensive	Limited	Moderate	Few	Very few	Google Tools	Advanced tools	APIs	Basic
Analytics	Built-in	Plugin-based	Built-in	Built-in	Basic stats	Email stats	Google Analytics	CRM tools	Plugins available	Basic
Social tool	Sharing + Jetpack	Plugins	Built-in	Built-in	Internal only	None	Manual sharing	Social + CRM	Basic sharing	Built-in
Best for	Beginners	Pros	Creatives	Hobbyists	Writers	Freelancers	Budget users	Marketers	Publishers	Side hustlers
Starting price	$2.95/mo	~$2.95/mo	$16/mo	$16/mo	Free	Free (10% cut)	Free	$25/mo	$9/mo+	Free/$10/mo

This comparison table gives you a quick snapshot of what each best blogging platform offers, from ease of use and SEO tools to monetization features and pricing. Whether you’re a side hustler or a full-time creator, an ideal blogging platform can empower your blog to grow, engage and generate income. 

Top 3 best blogging platforms by niche in 2025 

Different platforms shine in different niches. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best blogging platform by content type: 

• Writing, newsletter, affiliate: Bluehost WonderSuite for integrated WooCommerce and SEO tools.
• Tech blogs: WordPress.org for customization and plugin variety. 
• Travel blogs: Wix for its visual layout and ease of use.

10 best blogging platforms to monetize in 2025: A detailed comparison 

Now that you’ve seen the overview, let’s dive deeper into what each blogging platform brings to the table. 

1. Bluehost WonderSuite 

Bluehost WonderSuite is an all-in-one solution, making it one of the best blogging platforms for starting and scaling a blog or blogging website. Our AI builder is tailored for beginners, entrepreneurs and creators who want to launch fast, look polished and scale with ease. 

With integrated tools for design, content creation, SEO and eCommerce, Bluehost WonderSuite eliminates guesswork. So, you can focus on blogging, not backend setup. 

Key features 

• AI-powered site builder: You Answer a few questions about your blog or business goals and WonderStart will build a personalized WordPress site for you. No technical skills needed. 
• Professionally designed templates: Choose from a curated set of starter templates tailored for blogs. These templates are mobile-responsive, customizable and optimized for performance. 
• WordPress pre-installed: It comes automatically installed with essential WordPress plugins like Yoast SEO for optimization, Jetpack for security and performance and WPForms for lead capture—removing the friction of manual setup. 
• Guided WordPress dashboard: WonderSuite includes a simplified dashboard that helps you navigate WordPress easily. It walks you through content creation, design customization and plugin management step by step. 
• WonderBlocks for flexible design: It’s a library of pre-built block patterns for headers, CTAs, testimonials and more. WonderBlocks helps you design faster while keeping your blog looking professional. 
• Integrated eCommerce tools: To help you monetize your blog, WonderSuite supports WooCommerce out of the box. So, you can start selling products, subscriptions or digital downloads without setup headaches. 

Who is Bluehost WonderSuite best for? 

• Blogging beginners: Ideal for first-time bloggers who want to launch a WordPress blog without technical barriers.
• Small business owners: Great for entrepreneurs looking to start a blog alongside their service or product-based website. 
• DIY creators: Perfect for users who want to build a polished, scalable blog with pre-built tools, blocks and guidance. 

Pros: 

• WordPress setup with smart AI guidance 
• Comes with top plugins pre-installed 
• Flexible design options with WonderBlocks 
• Built-in WooCommerce support 
• Optimized for performance and SEO 

Cons: 

• Less flexibility for developers who prefer starting from scratch 
• Not ideal for non-WordPress platforms 

Pricing: 

Starts at $2.95/month and includes a free domain name for the first year, plus  SSL certificate. 

SEO features: 

• Pre-installed Yoast SEO for easy on-page optimization 
• Optimized themes with clean code for fast loading 
• Structured layout and meta tag customization support 
• Integration with Google Analytics and Search Console 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Built-in WooCommerce support for launching online stores 
• Add affiliate links, digital product sales or subscriptions 
• Sell services or gated content with plugins like MemberPress 
• Support for Google AdSense, tipping or donations via widgets 

Why do experts recommend Bluehost WonderSuite? 

Whether you’re launching a personal blog or building a business-ready content hub, Bluehost WonderSuite simplifies the process with AI-driven setup, integrated eCommerce and essential blogging tools. This makes it one of the best blog platforms for beginners and professionals alike. We’ve thoughtfully built it to guide you at every step from AI-powered site creation to design flexibility and monetization. 

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly, scalable solution backed by a reliable web host, WonderSuite is the best blogging platform for you. 

2. WordPress.org 

WordPress.org is the top choice for bloggers, businesses and organizations worldwide. What sets WordPress blog apart is its unparalleled flexibility and scalability. It’s not just a platform. It’s an ecosystem that adapts to your needs, whether you’re starting a personal blog or building an eCommerce store. 

According to Statista, WordPress powers over 68% of websites that use a content management system, reflecting its dominance in the blogging and site-building space. WordPress.org is the best free blogging platform. But you’ll need to buy web hosting and a domain name separately. 

Key features 

• Highly customizable: With WordPress.org, you can design your blog site using thousands of free themes and plugins. 
• Advanced SEO capabilities: WordPress.org supports advanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) tools like Yoast SEO. These tools help you optimize your content for search engines, from keyword optimization to schema markup. So, your blog reaches its audience. 
• Content and design ownership: Unlike many other blogging platforms, WordPress.org gives you full ownership of your content and design. There are no limitations or risks of your blog being taken down, as long as you comply with web hosting terms. 
• Community support and resources: WordPress.org has a vast global community of developers, designers and bloggers. It offers a wealth of resources, including forums, tutorials and documentation. 

Also read: Top WordPress Blog Themes for Every Blogger  

Who is WordPress.org best for? 

• Bloggers serious about growth: If you want to scale your blog, build a readership or monetize it, WordPress.org is the best choice. 
• Businesses: It offers a strong online presence and eCommerce features that benefit companies. 
• Content monetizers: WordPress.org supports ads, affiliate marketing and paid subscriptions. 

Pros: 

• Total freedom to design, monetize and scale your blog 
• Huge support community and documentation 
• Ideal for long-term growth and professional blogs 
• Easy integration with Google AdSense and Yoast SEO 

Cons: 

• Web hosting and a domain not included 
• Not beginner-friendly 

Pricing: 

Free blogging platform. But you’ll need to pay for web hosting (starting around $2.95/month with Bluehost) and a custom domain name. Many themes and plugins are free; premium add-ons are optional. 

SEO features: 

• Full support for advanced SEO plugins 
• Complete control over URL structure, meta tags, schema markup and XML sitemaps 
• Customizable permalinks, headings and image alt text for better search engine rankings 
• Access to caching plugins and performance tools to enhance Core Web Vitals 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Google AdSense, affiliate links, sponsored content or direct ad space sales 
• WooCommerce integration for selling physical or digital products 
• Paid memberships, exclusive content areas, courses, or coaching programs 
• Donation tools, Patreon integration, or tipping widgets for creative monetization 

Why do experts recommend WordPress? 

Experts always recommend WordPress.org for users ready to start blogging. If you want complete control, powerful SEO tools and a platform that grows with your content, it’s the best blogging platform to build your brand. Pair it with Bluehost WordPress hosting, and you’ll get the best of both worlds—freedom and reliability. 

3. Squarespace 

Squarespace is a beautiful, easy-to-use blogging platform that makes creating stylish websites simple. Its sleek, pro templates and easy drag-and-drop editor make it a favorite among creatives and small business owners. Squarespace is the best blogging platform for those who want a polished online presence without needing advanced tech skills. 

Key features 

• Professionally designed templates: Squarespace offers templates that are modern, responsive and customizable. So, your blog looks great on any device. 
• Easy drag-and-drop editor: Its intuitive drag-and-drop editor makes it easy to customize your website without needing coding knowledge. Simply move elements around, adjust layouts and personalize your blog to match your identity. 
• Built-in SEO tools: Squarespace comes with built-in SEO capabilities, helping your blog rank higher on search engines and get discovered. It offers customizable meta titles and descriptions, clean URLs and automatic sitemaps. 
• Integrated analytics: Squarespace’s built-in analytics tools show visitor behavior, traffic sources and popular content. With this data, you can refine your content strategy and improve engagement. 
• eCommerce functionality: Squarespace isn’t just for blogging; it also offers robust eCommerce tools. You can sell products or services directly from your blog. It has integrated payment processing, inventory management and customizable checkout options. 
• Seamless integration with third-party tools: Squarespace integrates with tools like social media and email services. It also works with scheduling tools. This helps you streamline your workflow and promote your blog. 

Who is Squarespace best for? 

• Photographers and designers: Squarespace is ideal for creatives who want to showcase their work in a visually appealing way. Its templates are designed to make images and portfolios stand out. 
• Small businesses: For small business owners, Squarespace offers a polished online presence with the option to sell products or services. 
• Lifestyle bloggers: Writers, lifestyle influencers and hobbyists who prioritize aesthetics and simplicity find Squarespace to be a great fit. 

Also read: Squarespace vs WordPress vs Bluehost 

Pros: 

• Beautiful templates tailored for content creators 
• All-in-one solution; no third-party tools required 
• Excellent customer support and built-in marketing tools 
• Supports blogging, eCommerce and portfolio-style websites 

Cons: 

• Limited flexibility compared to open-source platforms 
• No free plan, only a 14-day trial with higher pricing for casual bloggers 

Pricing: 

Starts at $16/month (Personal plan) with a free custom domain for the first year. Business and eCommerce plans offer more features like promotional pop-ups and selling tools. 

SEO features: 

• Built-in SEO tools for meta titles, descriptions and clean URL structures 
• Automatically generates sitemaps, robots.txt and mobile-optimized pages 
• Schema support for blog posts and product listings 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Built-in eCommerce functionality to sell products, subscriptions or services 
• Payment support for Stripe, PayPal and Afterpay 
• Paid memberships or gated content through the Member Areas add-on 
• Affiliate products promotion using custom pages and calls to action 

Why do experts recommend Squarespace? 

Squarespace is a popular blogging platform among creatives who want design-forward blogs without any technical hassle. It’s not as flexible as WordPress, but it’s perfect if visuals are your top priority. Experts recommend it for users who want a stylish blog up and running fast with reliable tools built in. 

4. Wix 

Wix is one of the popular free platforms for blogging. It makes website creation easy for everyone, regardless of their tech skills. Wix offers user-friendly interface and strong design options, making it a great choice for hobbyists and small-scale bloggers. It’s perfect for those who want ease of use over complex customization. 

Key features 

• Drag-and-drop website builder: The intuitive drag-and-drop editor is Wix’s standout feature. It allows users to build and customize their blogs effortlessly. Simply select elements like text boxes, images or widgets and place them wherever you want on your site. 
• Hundreds of customizable templates: Wix offers a vast collection of 800+ professionally designed templates tailored to different blogging platforms. Each template is fully customizable, so you can tweak colors, fonts and layouts to fit your branding. 
• Built-in SEO and marketing tools: Wix provides built-in SEO tools to help your blog rank higher in search results. Its SEO Wiz guides you through optimizing your own site for search engines. This covers essentials like meta tags, keywords and mobile optimization.  
• App market for additional features: Wix has an extensive App Market where you can find widgets and integrations to enhance your blog. From live chat tools to newsletter subscriptions and photo galleries, you can add functionality to your site in seconds. 
• Mobile optimization: All Wix websites are automatically optimized for mobile devices. This ensures your blog site looks great on smartphones and tablets. You can also customize the mobile version of your site separately for a tailored experience. 
• Analytics and performance tracking: Wix offers built-in analytics. It allows you to monitor your blog’s traffic, understand visitor behavior and track key metrics like page views and engagement. 

Who is Wix best for? 

• Hobbyists: Perfect for individuals looking to share personal stories, hobbies or interests without worrying about complex setups. 
• Small-scale bloggers: Ideal for bloggers who want to maintain a small, easy-to-manage site with attractive designs. 
• Ease-of-use enthusiasts: If you prioritize simplicity and don’t need advanced customization or scalability, Wix is an excellent option. 

Also read: Bluehost vs. Wix: Which Is Right for Your Website? 

Pros: 

• Extremely user-friendly; no coding skills required 
• All-in-one platform with hosting, themes and blogging tools 
• App Market access to additional features 
• Free plan for starting a blog instantly 

Cons: 

• Ads and a non-custom domain with free plan 
• Less flexibility for scaling complex blogs or switching platforms 

Pricing: 

Free plan available with ads and a Wix-branded URL. Paid plans start at $16/month and include a free domain name, removal of ads, increased storage and access to premium apps. 

SEO features: 

• Built-in Wix SEO Wiz for step-by-step blog optimization 

• Supports custom meta titles, descriptions, alt text and URL slugs 

• Automatically generates sitemaps and enables schema markup 

• Option to add 301 redirects and structured data for improved search engine visibility 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Built-in eCommerce tools to create an online store with physical or digital products 

• Support for affiliate marketing, paid subscriptions and gated content 

• Google AdSense ads or direct ad space sales 

• Integrated donation buttons and booking tools for service-based blogs 

• App Market tools for monetizing through coupons, memberships and upsells 

Why do experts recommend Wix? 

Wix is a smart choice if you’re looking for a simple blog setup with strong design capabilities. It’s one of the best free blogging platforms for new bloggers and small businesses. While it lacks the deep customization of WordPress, the ease of use and polished templates make it a great entry point in your blogging journey. 

5. Medium 

Medium has established itself as a hub for thoughtful, long-form content and meaningful discussions. It is for everyone, whether you’re a professional writer, a hobbyist or a thought leader. Medium is one of the top free blogging platforms to share your ideas with a global audience. 

Key features 

• Built-in audience: Medium connects you with a built-in community of engaged readers. The platform’s algorithm promotes quality content. 

• Clean, distraction-free writing environment: Medium’s editor is minimalist and user-friendly. It is designed to help you focus solely on writing. No distractions, no unnecessary tools, just a clean slate for your words. 

• No hosting or design setup required: Unlike traditional blogging platforms, Medium requires no hosting, domain registration or design setup. Once you create an account, you’re ready to start your blogging journey. 

• Monetization opportunities: Medium’s Partner Program allows writers to earn money based on reader engagement. Writers can generate income through paid membership.  

• Content discovery and networking: Medium also offers curated recommendations and topic-specific publications. So, you can easily discover and connect with other writers and readers in your field of interest. 

Who is Medium best for? 

• Writers and journalists: Ideal for those who want to share essays, thought pieces or investigative work with a large audience. 

• Thought leaders: A great platform for industry experts and thought leaders to share insights and build a reputation. 

• Content creators without technical skills: Perfect for those who want a seamless platform for writing without worrying about design or website management. 

Pros: 

• No technical setup, hosting or maintenance needed 

• Built-in distribution via Medium’s community and topics 

• Clean, elegant formatting with strong readability 

• Monetization opportunity through the Medium Partner Program 

Cons: 

• No custom domain support (unless used with a workaround) 

• Limited branding and design control 

• Monetization tied to Medium’s ecosystem, not your own terms 

• Limited control over meta tags or advanced SEO customization 

• No plugin support or manual sitemap configuration 

Pricing: 

Free blogging platform. Readers can upgrade to Medium Membership ($5/month), but publishing content is free.  

SEO features: 

• Basic SEO support with automatic optimization for titles, headings and mobile responsiveness 

• Clean URLs and fast-loading pages for search engine visibility 

• Indexed content discoverable through Medium’s internal recommendations and topic feeds 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Medium Partner Program earnings based on member reading time 

• Member-only posts for exclusive content access. 

• External product promotions or links to own blog or newsletter 

Also read: How to Make Money Online 

Why do experts recommend Medium? 

If you care more about publishing than platform design, Medium is an excellent starting point. It’s not a full blogging site, but it’s a great way to grow an audience without worrying about tech. Perfect for writers who want to publish content fast and reach readers with minimal effort. 

6. Substack 

Substack is another popular blogging platform. It transforms the blogging landscape by combining traditional blogging with newsletter functionality. Substack is designed for writers and those who want to own their audience and monetize their content directly through subscriptions. 

Key features 

• Newsletter + blog combo: Substack allows you to publish content on your own blog posts and send them directly to your subscribers as newsletters. This dual functionality helps you stay connected with your audience. 

• Monetization options: Writers can make money blogging by setting up paid subscriptions. Substack takes care of payment processing, letting you focus on content creation. You can choose to offer free content alongside exclusive content for paying subscribers. 

• Easy-to-use interface: Substack’s interface is straightforward and requires no technical skills. Setting up your publication and managing subscribers is simple and intuitive. 

• Full ownership of your audience: Substack gives you access to your subscriber list and also allows you to export it if needed. This ensures that your audience remains yours, even if you leave the blog platform. 

• Analytics and insights: Substack provides data on open rates, subscriber growth and reader engagement. It helps you refine your content strategy. 

Who is Substack best for? 

• Independent writers: Ideal for freelancers, journalists and authors who want to build a direct relationship with their readers. 

• Monetization-focused bloggers: Perfect for those who wish to earn from their writing through paid subscriptions. 

• Niche content creators: Substack works well for writers targeting specific niches, as it helps build a dedicated community of readers. 

Pros: 

• Zero setup with instant account creation and content publication 

• Easy monetization through paid newsletters and member-only posts 

• Engaged community of readers and writers 

• Supports podcasting and multimedia content 

Cons: 

• Limited custom domain support unless on a paid plan with workarounds 

• Minimal customization, design control or SEO features 

• Not suited for image-heavy or complex blog layouts 

Pricing: 

Free to use. Substack takes a 10% revenue share from paid subscriptions, with additional transaction fees from Stripe (2.9% + 30¢ per transaction). 

SEO features: 

• Publicly available posts on a dedicated blog-style page for indexing 

• Clean, minimal layout optimized for readability and mobile devices 

• Automatically generated RSS feeds and built-in social sharing tools 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Built-in subscription model for paid newsletters and gated content 

• Supports free, subscriber-only and tiered membership options 

• Substack-managed billing, delivery and access control 

• Option to host podcasts and offer paid audio content 

Why do experts recommend Substack? 

Substack is a modern publishing platform perfect for creators who prioritize writing and email engagement over design. If your blogging efforts are built around audience trust, storytelling or paid content, Substack gives you a no-fuss way to grow and monetize. 

7. Blogger.com 

Blogger.com, owned by Google, is the oldest and one of the top free blogging platforms available. Known for its simplicity and no-frills approach, Blogger is a reliable option for individuals who want to start blogging quickly. They can do it using a [blogspot].com subdomain or map a custom domain at no extra cost 

While it may lack the advanced features of modern platforms, its ease of use makes it a great choice for casual bloggers. It is also best for anyone looking to explore blogging without a financial commitment. 

Key features 

• Simple interface for beginners: Blogger’s interface is clean and intuitive. This makes it easy for beginners to write and publish first blog post. You don’t need technical skills or prior experience to get started. 

• Hosted by Google: Since Blogger is hosted by Google, there’s no need to worry about purchasing hosting or setting up a domain. You can create a free blog and use a subdomain like yourblogname.blogspot.com. 

• Integration with Google AdSense: Blogger makes it simple to monetize your blog through Google AdSense. This integration allows you to display ads on your site and earn revenue from clicks and impressions.  

• Google ecosystem integration: Blogger seamlessly integrates with other Google services, such as Google Analytics. It helps in tracking blog performance and Google Photos for adding images to your posts. 

Who is Blogger.com best for? 

• Casual bloggers: If you’re blogging as a hobby or sharing personal stories with friends and family, Blogger is a perfect fit. 

• Beginners testing the waters: Ideal for individuals who want to try blogging without committing to paid platforms or advanced setups. 

• Budget-conscious users: Blogger is completely free. This makes it a good option for those who don’t want to invest in hosting or premium features initially. 

Pros: 

• One of the best free blogging platforms for simple publishing 

• Minimal learning curve and instant launch 

• Built-in SEO features and Google-powered infrastructure 

• Allows quick blog creation for non-tech-savvy users 

Cons: 

• Dated interface with limited design options 

• Less flexibility and control compared to self-hosted WordPress 

• Uncertain long-term support as Google’s priorities shift 

Pricing: 

100% free blogging platform. Includes free subdomain (e.g., yourname.blogspot.com). Custom domains can be added separately. 

SEO features: 

• Basic built-in tools for customizing meta descriptions, custom permalinks and image alt text 

• Integration with Google Search Console for indexing and performance tracking 

• Automatic generation of sitemaps and robots.txt files 

• Mobile-friendly templates for better search engine rankings 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Direct integration with Google AdSense for displaying ads and earning revenue 

• Support for affiliate marketing via custom links and banners 

• Custom domain setup for branded monetization 

Why do experts recommend Blogger? 

Blogger may not be the most advanced platform, but it still works for those starting their blogging journey on a budget. It’s a reliable blogger platform for simple needs. However, if you’re building a brand or business, you’ll quickly outgrow its capabilities. 

8. HubSpot CMS 

HubSpot CMS isn’t just a blogging platform. It’s a powerful all-in-one tool designed to help businesses grow through integrated marketing, sales and customer relationship management (CRM). 

Perfect for companies that rely on content-driven inbound marketing, HubSpot CMS provides tools to create, optimize and manage blogs. It also supports broader business goals like lead generation and customer engagement. 

Key features 

• Integrated CRM: HubSpot’s built-in CRM enables seamless tracking and management of customer interactions. You can gather data on your audience’s behavior and nurture leads through targeted content. 

• Advanced analytics and marketing tools: HubSpot CMS offers detailed analytics to help you measure your blog’s performance. From traffic and engagement to conversion tracking, these insights allow you to refine your strategy.  

• User-friendly drag-and-drop editor: The CMS (content management system) features an intuitive drag-and-drop editor. It enables users to design and customize blogs without needing coding skills. 

• Seamless integrations: HubSpot CMS integrates with a wide array of tools and platforms. This may include Google Analytics, social media platforms and email marketing tools. 

Who is HubSpot CMS best for? 

• Marketers and businesses: Ideal for companies focused on generating leads and driving inbound marketing campaigns. 

• Professionals seeking a holistic solution: A great choice for those who want a unified platform that combines blogging, CRM and marketing tools. 

• SEO enthusiasts: Perfect for users looking to optimize their blogs with in-depth SEO insights and recommendations. 

Pros: 

• Ideal for businesses focused on content-driven growth 

• Combination of blogging, CRM, email marketing and analytics in one place 

• Drag-and-drop editor for content creation easy 

• Built-in SEO and lead gen features 

Cons: 

• Overkill for simple personal blogs or hobbyists use 

• Higher cost compared to platforms without bundled CRM features 

Pricing: 

HubSpot CMS starts at $25/month, with advanced plans costing hundreds. It’s best suited for businesses with inbound marketing needs. 

SEO features: 

• Advanced built-in SEO tools with real-time recommendations and optimization tips 

• Automatic sitemap generation, canonical URLs and responsive design 

• Built-in AMP support and smart content delivery based on visitor behavior 

• Seamless integration with Google Search Console, Analytics and HubSpot’s own SEO dashboard 

• Ideal for businesses focused on high-ranking, conversion-oriented content 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Supports gated content, lead magnets and premium resource downloads 

• Integration with eCommerce tools and payment gateways via third-party apps 

• Built-in CRM, forms and CTAs for converting blog visitors into leads 

• Support for affiliate links and campaign tracking 

Why do experts recommend HubSpot CMS? 

Experts recommend HubSpot CMS for marketers and businesses ready to scale. It’s not just a blogging platform; it’s a growth engine. If you’re looking to align your blog with your sales funnel and customer journey, HubSpot CMS gives you everything under one roof. 

9. Ghost 

Ghost is a sleek, performance-focused blogging platform. It is tailored for professional bloggers, publishers and content creators who value simplicity, speed and monetization options. As an open-source solution, Ghost offers unparalleled flexibility. 

So, it is best for those who want complete control over their blogs with a minimalist and modern design. 

Key features 

• Lightning-fast performance: Built on modern technologies like Node.js, Ghost is optimized for speed. Fast-loading blogs enhance user experience, improve SEO rankings and increase reader engagement. 

• Modern publishing tools: Ghost provides a clean, distraction-free writing environment with Markdown support. This allows creators to focus on crafting content without being bogged down by complex tools or cluttered interfaces. 

• Built-in membership and subscription options: Ghost stands out with its native tools for monetization. You can easily create membership tiers, offer exclusive content to subscribers and accept payments. All without relying on third-party plugins. 

• Open-source flexibility: As an open-source platform, Ghost is highly customizable. You can host it on your own server, tweak the code and integrate it with other tools to suit your unique needs. 

• SEO and social sharing built-in: Ghost includes default SEO settings and integration with social media platforms. It ensures your content is optimized for search engines and easily shareable on platforms like Facebook and Twitter. 

Who is Ghost best for? 

• Professional bloggers: Ideal for those who want a fast, minimalist platform focused on content creation and performance. 

• Publishers: Great for organizations and teams managing large-scale content operations. 

• Creators monetizing through memberships: Perfect for individuals or businesses offering subscription-based content. 

Pros: 

• Excellent for serious writers and digital publishers 

• Minimal setup requirements and fast loading times 

• Built-in monetization tools for subscriptions and memberships 

• Sleek user interface focused on the writing experience 

Cons: 

• Not ideal for users who want drag-and-drop designs or visual customizations 

• Technical setup required if self-hosted 

• Limited integrations compared to WordPress or HubSpot 

Pricing: 

Ghost (Pro) hosted version starts at $9/month for up to 500 members. Self-hosted is a free version but requires paid hosting and setup. It includes advanced features like memberships and newsletters. 

SEO features: 

• Built-in SEO tools for custom meta titles, descriptions, canonical tags and social sharing cards 

• Clean codebase, fast load times and automatic sitemap generation for improved indexing 

• Native AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) support for improved mobile SEO 

• Integration with Google Analytics and structured data support for content visibility 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Fully integrated subscription model for memberships, newsletters and paid content 

• Stripe integration for recurring payments and membership tiers management 

• Ideal for creators offering premium writing, resources or community access 

• Support for donation buttons and affiliate promotions 

• Best blogging platform for building a high-quality, subscriber-driven blog 

Why do experts recommend Ghost? 

Ghost is one of the best blogging platforms for writers who want to keep things simple yet powerful. If your blogging efforts are centered around content quality, speed and reader engagement, Ghost is a refreshing alternative. Experts love its focus on performance and writing-first philosophy. 

10. Weebly 

Weebly is a drag-and-drop blogging platform owned by Square, best suited for users who want to blog and sell products from the same site. While it’s not as design focused as Bluehost WonderSuite or as flexible as WordPress.org, Weebly stands out for its simplicity and integrated eCommerce tools. 

It’s ideal for small businesses, freelancers and side hustlers who want a blog attached to their online store without a steep learning curve. 

Key highlights: 

• Drag-and-drop website builder: Easily create blog layouts without needing any design or coding skills. You can also add categories, scheduled publishing, comment moderation and featured images. 

• Integrated eCommerce tools: Powered by Square, Weebly allows you to sell products, manage inventory and accept online payments. No separate hosting setup or SSL certificate is needed to secure your site. 

• Mobile-responsive themes: All templates adjust automatically to smartphones and tablets for a seamless experience. 

• App Center for extensions: Add third-party apps for social feeds, form builders, SEO boosters and more. 

• Marketing automation: Send email campaigns and capture leads through Weebly Promote. 

• SEO settings: Customize page titles, meta descriptions, image alt text and URLs for better search engine rankings. 

• Analytics dashboard: Track visitor stats, top pages and user behavior within the dashboard. 

Who is Weebly best for? 

• Beginner bloggers: Ideal for users who want a simple, drag-and-drop interface without technical setup. 

• Small business owners: Great for entrepreneurs looking to combine blogging with product or service sales. 

• Side hustlers: Perfect for those who want to launch a blog and a basic online store on a budget. 

Pros: 

• Best blogging platform for beginners with no coding experience 

• All-in-one platform for blogging and online selling 

• Built-in tools for email marketing, product galleries and coupon codes 

• Reliable performance and strong uptime from Square’s infrastructure 

Cons: 

• Fewer customization options compared to other platforms 

• Free plan with ads and no custom domain support 

• Not ideal for building large-scale best blogging sites 

Pricing: 

Paid plans start at $10/month (Personal), $12 (Professional) and $26 (Performance). Weebly is integrated with Square for payments and eCommerce. 

SEO features: 

• Built-in basic SEO with editable meta titles, descriptions, alt text and custom URLs 

• Automatic sitemaps generation and redirect support for better indexing 

• Mobile-responsive templates and SSL for improved search engine visibility 

Monetization opportunities: 

• Built-in eCommerce tools for creating an online store for physical or digital products 

• Support for coupon codes, inventory management and shipping settings 

• Features for adding affiliate links, contact forms and lead capture pop-ups 

• Payment support for Square, PayPal and Stripe 

Why do experts recommend Weebly? 

Weebly is the best blogging platform if you want to combine a simple blog with a small online store. It’s one of the most user-friendly blogging platforms for side projects or business websites. While not as scalable as WordPress or Bluehost WonderSuite, it delivers great value for casual bloggers and entrepreneurs just getting started. 

How did I pick the best blogging platforms? 

With so many blogging platforms available in 2025, choosing the right one comes down to more than just looks or popularity. To curate this list, I evaluated each blogging platform based on a balanced mix of content management features that matter most to new and experienced bloggers alike. 

Here’s what I looked at while ranking the best blogging platforms this year: 

• Ease of use: If you’re a beginner, look for a blogger platform with a user-friendly interface and minimal learning curve. Platforms like WordPress offer great flexibility but may require some technical skills.  

• Customization options: Consider how much creative control you want. WordPress stands out for its extensive themes, plugins and coding capabilities. It allows you to build a unique blog.  

• Budget: Evaluate your budget for hosting, domain registration and any premium features. Some blogging platforms offer a free version but may have limitations or hidden costs for scaling.  

• Purpose of the blog: Determine whether you’re creating a personal blog, a professional portfolio or a monetized website. For business or eCommerce needs, Bluehost WonderSuite offers WooCommerce integration along with content management features. 

• Scalability: Consider how the blogging platform supports future growth. If you plan to expand your blog into a larger website or business, ensure the platform can handle increased traffic and functionality.  

• SEO and marketing tools: Look for built-in blogging tools and third-party integrations. So, you can optimize your blog for search engines and promote it effectively.  

• Support and community: A strong support system is crucial. A blogging platform like WordPress has large communities, forums and resources to help you troubleshoot and grow.  

Final thoughts 

Pat Flynn’s journey to success started with one pivotal decision—selecting the best blogging platform to amplify his voice. That choice transformed his blog into the multi-million-dollar brand ‘Smart Passive Income’. 

The best blogging platforms in 2025 are built not just for writing but for growth, monetization and community. Whether you’re just starting or ready to scale, your blog can be the launchpad for something much bigger. 

If you’re looking for the right mix of simplicity and power, Bluehost WonderSuite makes it easy to begin. It comes with AI-guided onboarding, intuitive site design tools and monetization features. So, you can establish, promote and grow your blog with ease. 

Start your blog today with Bluehost WonderSuite. And who knows? Your story can be the next success we write about.  

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