Key highlights
- Learn about the critical features of WordPress directory plugins.
- Discover top WordPress directory plugin choices with free and premium features.
- Learn which plugins offer advanced features like location-based search, custom fields and front-end submissions.
- Explore directory plugin monetization with paid listings, premium subscriptions and payment gateway integration.
Want to build an amazing website in 2026? WordPress continues to reign as the world’s leading CMS, empowering businesses with a rich ecosystem of plugins that expand your site’s capabilities. Directory plugins are game changers for organizing listings and creating smooth, intuitive user experiences that keep visitors engaged on your website.
With so many options available, picking the best WordPress directory plugin can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly why we created this comprehensive guide for you. It helps you discover the perfect solution that fits your website.
This comprehensive WP directory plugins guide reflects 2026 updates with the latest compatibility data, pricing details and enhanced features. You’ll discover current best practices for selecting and optimizing directory plugins that align with modern WordPress standards and SEO requirements.
Why does WordPress directory plugin matter for your website’s success?
Building a directory website manually can be time-consuming and technically complex. That’s why choosing the best WordPress directory plugin is essential. These plugins automate listing creation and management, helping you launch faster without heavy development work.
A quality WordPress directory plugin also enhances user experience and unlocks revenue opportunities, making it easier to grow and scale your platform over time.
Key benefits of using the best WordPress directory plugin include:
- Pre-built templates and customizable listing fields
- Advanced search, filtering and sorting options
- Front-end listing submissions without backend access
- Built-in moderation workflows for reviewing submissions
- Monetization features such as featured listings, membership tiers and payment integrations
- Scalable performance to support hundreds or thousands of listings
Whether you’re creating a business directory, job board or classified marketplace, a directory plugin for WordPress can save weeks of development time while delivering professional-grade functionality.
Now that you understand the value of using a WordPress directory plugin, let’s explore the best WordPress directory plugin options available today. Below, you’ll find a comparison table and in-depth reviews to help you choose the right solution for your website.
Also read: WordPress admin dashboard: A complete walkthrough
Use cases for WordPress directories
WordPress directory plugins power multiple real-world site types, each with unique visitor and owner requirements:
- Local business directories: Visitors expect location-based search, maps, reviews and contact info. Owners need front-end submissions, moderation and monetization features.
- Staff/team directories: Users seek employee names, roles and contact details. Administrators require simple management and custom fields.
- Service provider directories: Visitors want provider profiles, ratings and availability. Owners need lead forms and premium listing options.
- Events directories: Users expect calendar views, date filters and registration links. Owners require recurring events and ticket integration.
- Classifieds: Visitors browse category-based ads with filtering. Owners need submission forms, payments and ad expiration.
- Real estate/rentals: Users filter by property type, price and location. Owners require specialized fields and inquiry capture.
- Niche marketplaces: Visitors browse vendor profiles and products. Owners need payment gateways and commission management aligned with plugins reviewed above.
Also read: How to login to WordPress site – WP admin access
Top 13 WordPress directory plugins
Choosing the best WordPress directory plugin doesn’t have to be complicated. Below, you’ll find a comparison of the best options, as per their key features, pricing and ideal use cases to help you make the right choice.
| Plugin name | Free version | Best for | Pricing (Approx.) |
| HivePress | Free plugin with extensions | Multi-purpose directories (business, classifieds, marketplace) | Core free; paid themes ~$69-$89; all-extension bundle ~$199 |
| Directorist | Free core with add-ons | Business & classified directories | ~$103/yr (1 site), ~$119/yr (unlimited) |
| Business Directory Plugin | Free core | Business directories | Free core + premium add-ons (bundle ~$199) |
| Connections Business Directory | Free core | Person, team, staff directories | Free + premium templates/add-ons ( ~$29.99 bundle) |
| Directories Pro | Premium only | Multi-directory sites | ~$39+ (depending on seller) (varies by shop) |
| GeoDirectory | Free core | Location-based business directories | Free + add-ons; premium bundle starts ~$139/yr |
| Formidable Forms | Free version | All-purpose listings via Views | Free + paid plans (Views on Plus ~$99.50/yr) |
| Classified Listing | Free core | Classified ads directories | Free + premium themes ~$39/$79 |
| Advanced Classifieds & Directory Pro | Free core | Advanced custom categories | Free core; Pro ~$95.88/yr |
| AWP Classifieds | Free core | Simple classifieds directories | Free + paid extensions (varies by seller) |
| Name Directory | Free core | Simple name indexes and glossaries | Free |
| Simple Link Directory | Free core | Link-based directories | Free + premium add-ons (pricing varies) |
| Toolset | No | Fully custom directories for developers | ~$75 (1 site), ~$325 (unlimited) |
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve compared the 13 best WordPress directory plugins, examining essential features, customization options, pricing plans and optimal use cases to help you select the right solution for your website‘s directory needs.
1. HivePress
HivePress is a free and flexible WordPress directory plugin built for multiple directory-based website types. It works well for job boards, real estate listings and online marketplaces.
Key features:
- Free core plugin supports basic listings with titles, descriptions and images.
- Additional extensions are required for custom fields and advanced listing details.
- Free extensions include geolocation, reviews and paid listing options.
- Premium extensions like tags, opening hours and SEO tools cost $29–$39.
- A $199 bundle unlocks access to all HivePress extensions.
- Built-in blocks allow easy insertion of listings and user registration forms.
- Supports multi-vendor functionality for public directory and marketplace websites.
This best WordPress directory plugin for building sites also includes a free theme called ListingHive, specifically designed for directory websites. Premium themes tailored for niche directory use cases are available to enhance functionality and design specialized WordPress directory solutions.
Best for: Building scalable WordPress directory websites with optional monetization and niche-specific design support
2. Directorist
When searching for the best WordPress directory plugin, Directorist emerges as a top-tier solution that combines flexibility with user-friendly design for building robust directory websites. This best WordPress directory plugin delivers powerful visual customization tools and streamlined management features, simplifying the process of creating professional online listings.
Key features:
- Drag-and-drop interface for easy directory creation
- Custom listing form builder with flexible field options
- Category- and location-based listing organization
- Google Maps and OpenStreetMap integration
- Built-in blocks for embedding directory elements
- Guest listing submissions without user accounts
- Free version supports bank transfer payments
- Premium plans start around $103 per year and unlimited licenses start at approximately $119 per year
Best for: Business directories, real estate listings, job boards and classified websites needing scalable directory features
3. Business Directory Plugin
Among the best WordPress directory plugins available, the WordPress Business Directory Plugin stands out as a versatile solution for building scalable business listings. This directory plugin delivers advanced customization options and robust monetization features, making it ideal for creating comprehensive WordPress directory sites.
Key features:
- Supports nested categories for organizing complex business listings
- Allows front-end listing submissions using a preconfigured form with 10 default fields
- Offers 14 different field types for enhanced directory customization
- Enables adding or modifying fields directly on the directory content page
- Supports paid listings through customizable pricing plans
- Free version includes Authorize.net payment gateway support
- Premium version adds PayPal, Stripe and Payfast integrations
Best for: Business websites that require structured listings, monetization options and flexible submission control
4. Connections Business Directory
Connections Business Directory is a flexible WordPress plugin for creating business or personal directories. It includes ready-made templates and WordPress blocks for easy listing display.
Key features:
- Create directories for individuals, businesses, organizations or families
- Set listings as public, private or unlisted
- Use default fields like address, phone number and social profiles
- Add directories using blocks: carousel, directory, team and upcoming
The plugin also offers strong customization and developer support.
Best for: Business websites needing a customizable, professional directory for teams or company listings
5. Directories Pro
Directories Pro is a premium WordPress directory plugin built for creating multiple directories on a single website. It supports various listing types with flexible layouts and customization options.
Key features:
- Create multiple directories with unique categories and structures
- Choose from list, grid or masonry layout styles
- Display listing images using a built-in photo slider
- Allow users to submit listings, reviews and ratings from the front end
- Enable guest submissions without requiring user registration
- Customize forms with conditional fields and over 20 custom field options
- Monetize listings through WooCommerce and subscription-based plans
- Improve performance with built-in caching for desktop and mobile devices
Best for: Business directories, classifieds and multi-niche websites needing flexible monetization and user-generated listings
6. GeoDirectory
GeoDirectory is a WordPress directory plugin designed for building location-based business directories with flexible listing options.
Key features:
- Free version supports a single city or local directory
- Multi-location support available via add-ons or premium plans
- Front-end listing submission with 40+ custom fields
- Suitable for real estate, hotel and rental listings
- Works with the block editor and popular page builders
- Supports location- and zip-code-based search
Best for: Business websites needing location-based directories, including local services, real estate and hospitality platforms
7. Formidable Forms
Formidable Forms is a flexible WordPress form plugin that also supports directory listings and front-end submissions. Its drag-and-drop builder and prebuilt templates simplify setup for various use cases.
Key features:
- Drag-and-drop form builder with front-end submission support
- Prebuilt templates for real estate, events and contact forms
- Views feature for single listings, calendars and full directories
- Customizable layouts and displayed fields
- Free version includes 14 field types
- Plus plan starts around $99.50 per year
Best for: Websites that need flexible form-based directories, user submissions and optional paid listings across multiple industries
8. Classified Listing
If you’re looking for the best WordPress directory plugin for classified ads, Classified Listing stands out as a specialized solution designed for classified advertisement websites. This powerful directory plugin delivers comprehensive front-end and back-end functionality, making listing creation and management seamless for site administrators and users.
Key features:
- Advanced front-end and back-end listing management for easy posting and moderation
- Support for unlimited custom fields using seven different field types
- Ability to create custom field groups and assign them to specific categories
- Flexible directory customization options directly from the admin settings panel
For beginners, the plugin developer offers premium classified directory themes starting at $39. These themes are fully compatible and help launch a directory website quickly.
Best for: Websites focused on classified advertisements and business directories that require flexible listing fields and user-friendly management tools
9. Advanced Classifieds and Directory Pro (ACADP)
Among the best WordPress directory plugins available, ACADP stands out as a flexible solution for creating structured directory listings with comprehensive management features.
Key features:
- Unlimited categories, subcategories and multi-level structures
- Unlimited custom fields with eight field types, including checkboxes, URLs and dates
- Custom field creation instead of fixed, predefined options
- Built-in shortcode builder in the admin panel
- Control over columns, listings per page and listing order
Best for: Websites needing scalable directory solutions for multiple listing categories or industries
10. AWP Classified
AWP Classifieds is a beginner-friendly WordPress classified ads directory plugin that allows users and visitors to create listings easily. It automatically generates essential pages, enabling a faster and more structured directory setup. All generated pages can be customized to match your website requirements.
Key features:
- Automatic creation of directory, user dashboard and ad submission pages
- Customizable page layouts for better design flexibility
- Predefined form fields in the free version, which can be reordered easily
- Extra Fields module in the premium version for advanced customization
- Support for text fields, dropdowns, checkboxes and radio buttons
- Option to allow non-registered users to submit classified ads
- Email verification feature before publishing ads
Best for: Websites looking to build simple to advanced classified ads directories with flexible monetization options
11. Name Directory
Name Directory is a free WordPress plugin built for creating simple index-style directories and glossaries. It works well for organizing names, roles and basic contact details in a structured format.
Key features:
- Alphabet-based index navigation for filtering entries by letter
- Support for employee names, job titles and contact information
- Front-end form submission for visitor-added directory entries
- Bulk import functionality using CSV files
- Sample CSV file provided to simplify the import process
This plugin is designed for functionality rather than visual flexibility. It automatically inherits styles from the active WordPress theme, with no built-in customization options for layout or design.
Due to its minimal styling controls, it is best used for straightforward directories rather than visually complex listings.
Best for: Simple glossaries, business indexes or company contact directories where clarity and organization matter more than custom design
12. Simple Link Directory
Simple Link Directory is a focused WordPress plugin built specifically for creating link-based directories. It provides a clean setup and straightforward link management.
Key features:
- Add links easily from the admin panel using a link, title and image
- Enable no-follow links to prevent search engine crawling
- Use a default shortcode to display directories anywhere
Best for: Building simple, customizable and monetizable link directories without complex setup
13. Toolset
Toolset stands out as one of the best WordPress directory plugins for developers and advanced users seeking complete customization control. It enables building highly tailored directory websites with complete design flexibility and advanced, developer-focused functionality.
This makes it ideal for creating professional, complex directory platforms beyond standard WordPress directory features.
Key features:
- Supports eCommerce, real estate, membership and directory websites
- Offers tools for custom post types, fields and dynamic content
- Enables building directories without prebuilt templates
- Pricing starts at €69 for one site and €299 for unlimited sites
Best for: Advanced users and developers creating fully customized directory, eCommerce, real estate or membership-based WordPress websites
Also read: How to uninstall a plugin on wordpress + activating, installing and checking the compatibility
How to choose the best WordPress directory plugin for your needs?
Choosing the best WordPress directory plugin requires evaluating features that affect usability, performance and long-term scalability. The factors below help narrow down plugins that fit your website’s goals and technical setup.
- Ease of use and user-friendly interface: A WordPress directory plugin should offer an intuitive interface for managing listings without advanced technical knowledge. Simple navigation improves efficiency for administrators and contributors alike.
- Customization options and design flexibility: The best WordPress directory plugins provide flexible templates and styling controls for visual consistency. These options help match your directory layout with your website’s branding and design standards.
- Compatibility with themes and plugins: Ensure the directory plugin works smoothly with your WordPress theme and existing plugins. Proper compatibility prevents conflicts and maintains a stable user experience across your site.
- Advanced search and directory features: Look for advanced features such as search filters, location-based listings and user-submitted content. These tools improve directory usability and increase visitor engagement.
- Customer support quality and user reviews: Reliable customer support ensures timely assistance when issues arise. User reviews reveal real-world performance, reliability and overall plugin satisfaction. Pairing a well-reviewed directory plugin with Bluehost’s 24/7 WordPress-trained experts adds an extra layer of confidence when building your directory website.
Choosing the best directory plugin helps you build a strong starting point, but long-term success depends on how well your site handles growth. This is where our WordPress hosting becomes essential for managing traffic and expanding listings.
Power your directory website with Bluehost WordPress Hosting
Choosing the right plugin is only part of building a successful directory website. Your hosting provider plays a major role in performance, security and long-term growth.
Bluehost WordPress Hosting is optimized specifically for WordPress websites, offering fast load times, automatic updates, built-in security features and seamless plugin compatibility. With 24/7 access to WordPress-trained experts, we ensure your directory plugin runs smoothly, even as traffic and listings increase.
Take your directory further with premium WordPress hosting plans.
A strong hosting foundation sets your directory up for success. From here, you can begin building and configuring your directory website using a WordPress plugin.
How to create a WordPress directory website with a plugin?
Building a directory website with a WordPress directory plugin follows a straightforward process. Here’s how to take your site from setup to launch efficiently.
- Choose your niche: Define your directory type (business, classifieds, services or teams) to guide which features you’ll need from your directory plugin WordPress solution.
- Install and activate: Select the best WordPress directory plugin from the options above and install it through your WordPress dashboard.
- Create categories: Set up logical categories that help visitors navigate and find listings quickly, improving overall user experience.
- Configure fields: Customize form fields (address, phone, images, descriptions) to ensure listings contain the information visitors expect.
- Enable front-end submission: Allow users to submit listings without admin access, which grows your directory while keeping your backend secure.
- Set moderation: Choose whether submissions publish immediately or require approval to maintain quality and prevent spam.
- Add search and filters: Activate category filters, location search and sorting options so visitors can narrow results efficiently.
- Publish core pages: Use plugin shortcodes or blocks to create your main directory, submission and category pages.
- Test thoroughly: Submit a test listing and verify the entire submission, approval and display process works correctly.
- Launch and promote: Once testing confirms everything functions properly, promote your directory to attract real listings.
By following these steps, you can launch a fully functional WordPress directory website without complex coding. With the right plugin and setup, scaling and managing listings becomes efficient.
Also read: Why WordPress (+ plugins) is the ultimate no code tool
Final thoughts
Choosing the correct WordPress directory plugin plays a key role in strengthening your listings and online visibility. The right plugin simplifies website management, improves user experience and helps your site stay competitive in a crowded digital space.
We’ve discussed several WordPress directory plugins designed for business listings, property directories, classifieds and job portals. By analyzing each plugin features and alignment with your website goals, you can create a high-performing directory.
To get the best performance from your directory, reliable hosting is just as important as the plugin itself. Bluehost WordPress Hosting offers optimized performance, one-click WordPress installation and scalable resources to support directory-driven websites as they grow.
Get started with Bluehost WordPress Hosting today and build a fast, reliable directory website designed for long-term success.
FAQs
A WordPress directory plugin is a tool that allows you to create and manage listings, such as businesses, services or events, on your WordPress website. These plugins provide various features, including custom fields, search functionality and categorization, to help you build and organize an efficient online directory.
To create your directory in WordPress, you need to install and activate a directory plugin, configure its settings according to your needs, create categories and listings and then embed the directory on your site using the plugin’s shortcodes or blocks.
A WP directory plugin helps you organize and showcase business listings, services, events or contacts on your site. The best WordPress directory plugin makes it simple for visitors to search, filter and find relevant information tailored to their needs, enhancing user experience and engagement.
Yes, when choosing the best WordPress directory plugin, it’s important to consider that many design plugins and themes offer compatibility, allowing you to customize the appearance of your directory site. Before implementing any design plugin or theme with your WordPress directory plugin, always verify compatibility to ensure smooth integration and optimal performance on your website.
Yes, most WordPress directory plugins offer a front-end submission feature that allows users to submit their listings to your directory. This can be done through customizable submission forms that include fields and options for users to provide the necessary information about their listings.
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