WordPress vs Squarespace: Which Website Platform in 2025?

WordPress and Squarespace are among the most popular website platforms. Here is how to choose between them for different types of websites in 2025.

WordPress vs Squarespace: Which Website Platform in 2025?

Quick Answer

For maximum flexibility and ownership: WordPress.org (self-hosted) — most powerful, most plugins, own your data. For ease and design quality without technical complexity: Squarespace — beautiful templates, built-in hosting, no maintenance. For most non-technical people building their first website: Squarespace.

WordPress (Self-Hosted) — Most Powerful and Flexible

Cost: ~$5-20/month hosting + domain (~$15/year) + plugins (many free, premium vary)
Best for: Developers, content-heavy sites, businesses needing SEO control, WooCommerce e-commerce, anyone who wants full control

WordPress powers 43% of all websites. Unlimited plugins (60,000+), themes, and customization. The Gutenberg block editor has significantly improved UX. Managed WordPress hosting (WP Engine, Kinsta) simplifies maintenance. Downsides: requires more technical knowledge, security updates needed, plugin conflicts can occur.

Squarespace — Best for Design and Simplicity

Cost: Personal $16/month, Business $23/month, Commerce $28-52/month
Best for: Creatives, photographers, restaurants, small businesses, service providers

Squarespace’s templates are genuinely beautiful and maintain their design integrity better than WordPress themes. Hosting, security, and updates are handled automatically. Built-in e-commerce, blogging, email marketing, and scheduling tools. Simpler but less flexible — the platform controls what you can and cannot do.

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