Guides

Where to host WordPress

This guide focuses on WordPress running on a virtual private server. You manage PHP, MySQL, updates, security, and backups.

The price is low, but the work is real. If you don't want to manage a server, choose a managed WordPress host instead.

Choose who operates WordPress

WordPress hosting decision between operating a virtual server yourself and choosing a managed WordPress host.
Choose a virtual server for control and a lower price. Choose managed WordPress when you don't want the maintenance.

Recommended hosts

Top match Virtual server (VPS)

AWS Lightsail

≈$12/mo Small

2 vCPU, 2 GB RAM, 60 GB SSD, 3 TB transfer.

Free option
90-day free trial (750 hours/month) on the $5–$12 Linux bundles and the $15 database. New AWS accounts get $100 in credits immediately and can earn another $100. The Free plan lasts up to six months.
Why it fits
Projects that want predictable AWS — a fixed-price server with a clear upgrade path into the wider AWS ecosystem.
How deploys work
Pick a blueprint (WordPress, LAMP, Node.js, plain Linux), get SSH in the browser or your terminal, and manage it like any VPS.
The tradeoff
Costs more per spec than the European VPS crowd, and stopped instances keep billing.
  • You install, secure, and back up the database yourself.

Option 2 Virtual server (VPS)

Vultr Cloud Compute

≈$5/mo vc2-1c-1gb

Fine for steady modest traffic; move up when RAM gets tight.

Free option
Limited early-access plan: 1 vCPU, 512 MB RAM, and 10 GB disk in Seattle, Frankfurt, or Miami. Confirm access in your account before relying on it.
Why it fits
Developers who want a cheap server near their users, wherever those users are.
How deploys work
You get root on a fresh Linux server; setup and deploys are yours to script.
The tradeoff
Fully self-managed, and the hour-based billing model is less forgiving than per-second rivals.
  • You install, secure, and back up the database yourself.

Option 3 Virtual server (VPS)

DigitalOcean Droplet

≈$6/mo s-1vcpu-1gb

A single small Droplet handles steady modest traffic; resize when it stops being enough.

Why it fits
Developers comfortable with a Linux server who want predictable pricing and full control.
How deploys work
You get root on an Ubuntu server: install your runtime, or start from a 1-click image.
The tradeoff
You are the ops team — security updates, backups, and monitoring are on you.
  • You install, secure, and back up the database yourself.

We rank providers by deployment ease first, then monthly cost. Commission payments don't affect the rank. If your project is different, answer four questions and get a specific recommendation.