Backpage Alternative

Backpage was once one of the most popular online classified ad platforms, allowing users to buy and sell goods, find services, and even post job listings. However, since its shutdown, many users have been searching for reliable alternatives. Whether you’re looking for a place to post ads for business, jobs, services, or personal listings, there are many great Backpage alternatives available today.

In this guide, we’ll explore the Top 10 Backpage Alternatives for Buying and Selling in 2025 to help you find the right platform for your needs.

1. Craigslist

Craigslist remains one of the most well-known classified ad websites in the world. It provides users with a simple yet effective interface to post ads for jobs, housing, services, and items for sale. The site is available in many countries and major cities, making it a great Backpage alternative.

Pros:

• Free to use for most categories
• Large user base
• Easy to navigate

Cons:

• Some categories require paid listings
• Can have spam or scam listings

2. Oodle

Oodle is another great alternative to Backpage. It aggregates listings from various sources, including newspapers, eBay, and other classified sites. This makes it a great place to find a wide range of goods and services.

Pros:

• Aggregates listings from multiple sources
• Large audience reach
• Free to use

Cons:

• Some listings may be outdated
• Less popular for certain categories

3. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace has grown into one of the most trusted places for buying and selling online. With built-in features like user verification and secure messaging, it’s a great alternative to Backpage.

Pros:

• Trustworthy due to Facebook profiles
• Large audience reach
• Free to post listings

Cons:

• Requires a Facebook account
• No anonymity

4. OfferUp

OfferUp is an app-based marketplace that allows users to buy and sell items locally. It is highly popular in the U.S. and has a reputation for being user-friendly.

Pros:

• Easy to use mobile app
• Built-in messaging system
• Safe user verification process

Cons:

• Limited to certain regions
• Competition from similar platforms

5. Letgo (Merged with OfferUp)

Letgo was a separate platform but has since merged with OfferUp, creating a larger marketplace for buying and selling items. It provides a similar experience with a focus on local transactions.

Pros:

• Seamless integration with OfferUp
• Popular among local buyers and sellers

Cons:

• Limited to the U.S.
• Requires a mobile app

6. Locanto

Locanto is a popular classified ad website that offers free and paid listings. It covers a wide range of categories, including jobs, real estate, personals, and services.

Pros:

• Available in many countries
• Free basic ads
• Easy-to-use interface

Cons:

• Some categories require paid ads
• Limited audience in certain regions

7. Geebo

Geebo is a classified ad site that focuses on providing a safer alternative to traditional online marketplaces. It manually reviews listings to reduce scams and fraudulent ads.

Pros:

• Safer due to manual review process
• Free to use

Cons:

• Smaller audience compared to Craigslist
• Fewer listings in some categories

8. ClassifiedAds.com

ClassifiedAds.com is a free-to-use platform that offers listings in various categories such as housing, jobs, services, and personals. It provides an easy way for users to connect and transact.

Pros:

• 100% free
• No sign-up required to post ads

Cons:

• Can have spammy listings
• Smaller user base compared to Facebook Marketplace

9. Gumtree

Gumtree is a popular classified ads website in the UK, Australia, and South Africa. It offers a wide range of categories for users to post and browse listings.

Pros:

• Well-established platform
• Free and paid listings available

Cons:

• Not as popular in the U.S.
• Some categories have listing fees

10. Hoobly

Hoobly is an excellent option for those looking to buy and sell pets, electronics, vehicles, and more. It has a strong community of users looking for niche products and services.

Pros:

• Great for pet-related listings
• Free to use

Cons:

• Smaller user base
• Can have outdated listings

Since Backpage’s shutdown, many classified ad platforms have stepped up to fill the gap. Whether you’re looking for a general marketplace like Craigslist, a secure option like Facebook Marketplace, or a niche platform like Hoobly, there’s an alternative that fits your needs.

Each of the Top 10 Backpage Alternatives for Buying and Selling in 2025 has its own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on what you’re looking to buy or sell, you may find one platform more useful than others. Be sure to use caution, verify sellers or buyers, and follow safety guidelines when conducting transactions online.

If you’re looking for the best platform, try out a few and see which one works best for you. Happy buying and selling!

Backpage was once one of the most popular classified ad websites, offering a platform for people to post ads for jobs, services, real estate, and more. However, in 2018, Backpage was seized by the U.S. government due to allegations of facilitating illegal activities. Since then, users have been searching for reliable alternatives to buy and sell goods, post job listings, and advertise services.

If you’re wondering where to turn now that Backpage is gone, don’t worry! There are plenty of other classified ad websites that can serve as great alternatives. In this post, we’ll discuss why Backpage was shut down, what to look for in a good replacement, and the best sites you can use instead.

Why Was Backpage Shut Down?

Backpage was shut down on April 6, 2018, when the U.S. Department of Justice seized the website. Authorities alleged that the platform was involved in illegal activities, particularly related to human trafficking and exploitation. Law enforcement claimed that Backpage failed to regulate its classified ads properly, allowing illegal content to flourish.

This crackdown was part of the broader push to enforce laws such as the Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA) and Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA), which increased government oversight of online platforms that host user-generated content. As a result, not only was Backpage taken down, but many other classified ad websites had to change their policies or shut down entirely.

Despite this, the demand for online classified ads has not disappeared. Many users still need platforms where they can post legitimate job listings, personal ads, or services. Fortunately, several alternatives have emerged to fill the gap left by Backpage.

What to Look for in a Backpage Alternative?

Before choosing a Backpage alternative, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure you’re using a safe and effective platform:

• User Safety & Security: A good classified ad website should have strong moderation and security features to prevent scams and illegal activity.
• Ease of Use: The platform should be easy to navigate, allowing users to post and browse ads without difficulty.
• Variety of Categories: Look for a site that supports a wide range of ad categories, including jobs, housing, services, and more.
• Free & Paid Options: Some platforms offer free ad posting, while others charge a fee. Consider what works best for your needs.
• Active User Base: The larger the user base, the more engagement your ads will receive.

With these factors in mind, let’s look at some of the best Backpage alternatives available today.

Top Backpage Alternatives for Classified Ads

1. Craigslist

Craigslist is one of the most well-known classified ad websites in the world. It has been around for decades and remains a go-to platform for buying and selling goods, finding jobs, and offering services.

• Pros: Large user base, multiple ad categories, free to use in most cases.
• Cons: Some regions charge for certain types of ads, and the platform lacks advanced moderation features.

2. Locanto

Locanto is another popular alternative that offers classified ads in various categories, including real estate, jobs, personals, and services. It operates in multiple countries and provides both free and premium ad options.

• Pros: Free ad posting, user-friendly interface, available worldwide.
• Cons: Some categories require payment for premium visibility.

3. Oodle

Oodle is a unique classified ad platform that aggregates listings from other sources, such as eBay, newspapers, and local classified sites. It provides a centralized location for users to find and post ads.

• Pros: Aggregates listings from multiple sources, integrates with Facebook for additional reach.
• Cons: Less popular than Craigslist, so fewer local listings in some areas.

4. ClassifiedAds.com

ClassifiedAds.com is a completely free classified ad site that supports multiple categories, including jobs, housing, and services. It’s easy to use and has a simple interface.

• Pros: 100% free, no account required to post ads.
• Cons: Smaller user base compared to Craigslist or Locanto.

5. Geebo

Geebo is a safer alternative to Backpage that focuses on reducing scams and fraudulent listings. It requires users to go through a verification process before posting ads.

• Pros: Strong emphasis on safety, no spam or fake listings.
• Cons: Smaller reach compared to Craigslist or Oodle.

6. OfferUp

OfferUp is primarily a marketplace for buying and selling goods, but it also supports local services and job listings. It has a mobile-friendly app that makes it easy to post and browse ads.

• Pros: Mobile app available, strong security features, built-in messaging system.
• Cons: Focused more on buying/selling products rather than general classifieds.

7. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is another great option for selling goods and services. Since it is connected to Facebook, it provides a level of trust by allowing users to see the profiles of buyers and sellers.

• Pros: Huge user base, free to use, integrated with Facebook profiles.
• Cons: Some categories are restricted, and privacy concerns exist.

8. USFreeAds

USFreeAds is a classified site that offers both free and paid ad listings. It covers various categories, including real estate, jobs, and services.

• Pros: Simple interface, paid ads get more visibility.
• Cons: Free ads have limited reach compared to paid ones.

9. Hoobly

Hoobly is similar to Craigslist but is particularly popular for pet-related listings. It also supports other categories like jobs and services.

• Pros: Great for pet-related ads, easy to use.
• Cons: Limited popularity compared to larger classified sites.

10. Gumtree

Gumtree is a popular classified site, especially in the UK, Australia, and South Africa. It offers listings for jobs, housing, goods, and services.

• Pros: International presence, user-friendly interface.
• Cons: Less popular in the U.S. compared to Craigslist.

Which Alternative Should You Choose?

With Backpage gone, finding the right classified ad website depends on your specific needs. Here are some recommendations based on what you’re looking for:

• For general classifieds: Craigslist, Locanto, ClassifiedAds.com
• For buying and selling goods: OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, Oodle
• For job listings: Geebo, USFreeAds, Gumtree
• For safer transactions: Geebo, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp

No matter which platform you choose, always be cautious when dealing with online classifieds. Avoid scams, never share personal or financial information, and meet in safe, public places for transactions.

While Backpage may no longer be an option, there are plenty of reliable alternatives that can meet your advertising needs. Try out a few of these sites and see which one works best for you!

For years, Backpage was a popular online classified ads platform where users could buy and sell goods, find services, and even look for job opportunities. However, after it was shut down in 2018 due to legal issues, many people were left searching for safe and reliable alternatives to continue posting and browsing classified ads.

With so many options available, it can be difficult to find the right platform that offers security, ease of use, and a wide range of categories. In this article, we will explore the best Backpage alternatives that are safe, reliable, and effective for online classified advertising.

Why You Need a Safe and Reliable Backpage Alternative

When looking for a classified ads platform, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and reliability. Here’s why:

• Avoid Scams: Many online marketplaces are filled with scammers looking to take advantage of unsuspecting users.
• User-Friendly Experience: A well-designed platform makes it easier to post and browse ads.
• Category Variety: A good alternative should support various types of ads, from job listings to real estate and personal services.
• Privacy and Security: The best alternatives protect your data and provide safe transaction options.

With these factors in mind, let’s explore some of the most trusted Backpage alternatives available today.

Top Safe and Reliable Backpage Alternatives

1. Craigslist

Overview: Craigslist has been one of the longest-running classified ads websites, offering a wide range of categories for free or at a low cost.

Pros:

• Free or low-cost ads
• Large audience reach
• Well-organized categories

Cons:

• High number of scams
• Limited moderation
• Lacks advanced features like in-app messaging

2. Facebook Marketplace

Overview: Facebook Marketplace allows users to buy and sell items within their local communities while utilizing their Facebook profiles for added credibility.

Pros:

• Integrated with Facebook profiles, reducing anonymity-related scams
• Free to use
• Easy to connect with local buyers and sellers

Cons:

• Requires a Facebook account
• Limited to certain categories (e.g., personal services are restricted)
• Potential for fake profiles

3. Oodle

Overview: Oodle aggregates classified ads from different sources, including newspapers and other listing sites, making it a comprehensive alternative.

Pros:

• Aggregates listings from multiple sources
• Offers various categories, including jobs and rentals
• Integrated with Facebook for added credibility

Cons:

• Can sometimes display outdated listings
• Not as widely used as Craigslist

4. Geebo

Overview: Geebo is a classified ads platform that focuses on safety, offering manually reviewed listings to ensure legitimacy.

Pros:

• Manually reviewed ads for better security
• User-friendly interface
• No adult content, making it family-friendly

Cons:

• Smaller user base compared to Craigslist
• Not available in all cities

5. ClassifiedAds.com

Overview: ClassifiedAds.com is a free and straightforward classifieds website that covers a wide range of categories.

Pros:

• Completely free to use
• Simple and easy-to-use interface
• Covers many categories, including jobs, housing, and personals

Cons:

• Minimal moderation
• Limited reach compared to Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace

6. OfferUp

Overview: OfferUp is a mobile-friendly marketplace that focuses on buying and selling locally with added security features.

Pros:

• Mobile app makes posting and browsing easy
• Secure payment options
• User ratings and reviews help ensure trust

Cons:

• Focuses mainly on physical goods
• Limited support for job listings or personal services

7. Locanto

Overview: Locanto offers free classified ads across multiple categories and includes options for both local and nationwide advertising.

Pros:

• Free basic listings with premium options available
• Covers various categories, including services and real estate
• Allows multimedia uploads for ads

Cons:

• Some categories may attract scammers
• Paid promotions needed for better visibility

Tips for Staying Safe While Using Classified Ad Websites

Regardless of which alternative you choose, it’s essential to follow some basic safety precautions:

1. Verify Buyers and Sellers: Always research the person or business before engaging in a transaction.
2. Meet in Public Places: When meeting someone in person, choose a well-lit, public location.
3. Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing your phone number, address, or financial details.
4. Use Secure Payment Methods: Avoid wire transfers or prepaid debit cards. Use PayPal or other secure methods.
5. Look Out for Red Flags: If an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of requests for advance payments.

While Backpage may be gone, there are plenty of safe and reliable alternatives for classified advertising. Platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp provide solid options for buying, selling, and finding services. To ensure a secure experience, always follow best practices for online transactions and choose a platform that aligns with your needs.

By selecting a trusted alternative and staying vigilant, you can continue to benefit from online classified ads without unnecessary risks.

Backpage was once a dominant force in the world of online classified ads, offering users a platform to buy, sell, and promote various services. However, after its shutdown, many users found themselves searching for alternatives that offer similar features and accessibility. Fortunately, numerous platforms have emerged to fill the gap left by Backpage, catering to different industries and user needs.

If you’re looking for the best Backpage replacement, you need to consider factors such as ease of use, security, audience reach, and cost. In this guide, we’ll explore how to find the best alternative for your specific needs.

1. Identify Your Purpose

The first step in finding the best Backpage replacement is determining your primary purpose for using a classified ad site. Are you looking to promote a business, sell products, or find services? Here are some common use cases:

• Selling Products – If you’re looking for a platform to sell items, a site with a large audience and secure payment methods is ideal.
• Offering Services – Freelancers, small business owners, and gig workers need a platform that allows them to advertise services effectively.
• Networking & Community Engagement – Some users may be looking for local events, gigs, or community interactions.
• Job Listings – If you’re posting job opportunities, you need a site with a strong job-seeking community.

Knowing your exact needs will help you narrow down your options and find the best alternative.

2. Research Reputable Alternatives

There are several Backpage alternatives available, but not all of them are reliable or secure. Here are some of the top options based on different categories:

General Classified Ads Websites

• Craigslist – One of the oldest and most popular classified sites that cover almost every category.
• Oodle – Aggregates listings from various sites, making it a great option for broad audiences.
• ClassifiedAds.com – A simple and easy-to-use platform similar to Backpage.

Adult & Escort Service Listings (For those seeking alternatives for personal ads)

• SkipTheGames – One of the top alternatives for adult services and personal ads.
• Bedpage – Designed to resemble Backpage, featuring similar categories.
• Escort Alligator – A trusted platform for adult service providers.

Job Listing Platforms

• Indeed – A professional job board ideal for full-time and freelance job seekers.
• Glassdoor – Offers company reviews along with job postings.
• ZipRecruiter – Best for quick hiring and resume submissions.

Buy & Sell Marketplaces

• Facebook Marketplace – Integrated into Facebook, allowing users to buy and sell locally.
• OfferUp – A mobile-friendly alternative with secure payment features.
• Letgo – Now merged with OfferUp, a great platform for local sales.

3. Check the Platform’s Security Features

Security is a top concern when using online classified platforms. Since Backpage was shut down due to legal concerns, you want to ensure the alternative you choose is legitimate and safe. Here are a few things to look for:

• User Verification – Platforms that verify users via email or phone reduce the risk of scams.
• HTTPS Security – Ensure the website has an HTTPS URL for secure browsing.
• Reporting & Moderation – The site should allow users to report suspicious activity.
• Anonymous Posting Options – Some users may prefer platforms that allow anonymous posting while protecting their identity.

Avoid sites with a high number of scam reports or platforms that lack transparency about their operations.

4. Consider the Audience Reach & Traffic

A great alternative should have a decent audience base so that your ads get visibility. Some ways to check this include:

• Alexa Rank or SimilarWeb Data – These tools provide insights into site traffic and popularity.
• Social Media Presence – Platforms with active social media pages often have a strong user base.
• User Reviews – Reading feedback from current users can give you an idea of how effective the site is.

5. Look for Free vs. Paid Options

Some classified ad sites offer free postings, while others require payment. If you’re on a budget, prioritize free sites. However, paid platforms often offer premium features such as better visibility, ad boosts, and targeted marketing.

• Free Platforms – Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and ClassifiedAds.com offer free listings.
• Paid Platforms – Some sites charge for premium placement, featured ads, or enhanced listings.

Choose a platform based on your budget and how much exposure you need.

6. Optimize Your Ads for Better Results

Once you’ve selected a Backpage replacement, your next step is to optimize your listings to ensure they get maximum engagement. Here’s how:

• Write a Clear and Concise Title – Ensure your title describes what you’re offering.
• Use High-Quality Images – Ads with images get more attention and responses.
• Provide Detailed Descriptions – Be clear about pricing, location, and contact details.
• Update Listings Regularly – Some sites favor recently updated posts, so refresh your ads periodically.
• Engage With Interested Users Quickly – Responding fast to inquiries can increase conversion rates.

7. Beware of Scams and Fraud

As with any online classified ad site, scams are always a concern. Protect yourself by:

• Avoiding Advance Payments – Never send money before receiving the product or service.
• Meeting in Safe Locations – If meeting in person, choose public areas.
• Using Secure Payment Methods – Avoid wire transfers and opt for services with buyer protection.
• Verifying Users Before Doing Business – Check profiles, reviews, and references if possible.

8. Test Multiple Platforms

Since no single platform will fully replicate Backpage, you may need to test multiple sites to find the best fit. Try posting on a few different alternatives and track your results to see which one delivers the best engagement and responses.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best Backpage replacement depends on your specific needs, whether you’re selling items, offering services, or looking for job listings. The key is to choose a platform that aligns with your goals while providing a secure and active user base. By following the steps in this guide, you can successfully transition to a reliable classified ads site and continue reaching your target audience effectively.

Do you have experience using any Backpage alternatives? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Backpage was once a dominant platform for classified ads, offering users a space to buy and sell goods, find services, and even post job listings. However, after its shutdown in 2018, users have been searching for reliable alternatives that provide similar functionality. Fortunately, many new platforms have emerged, offering diverse opportunities for classified advertising. Whether you’re looking to promote a business, find local services, or post job listings, this article will explore the best Backpage alternatives available today.

Why Was Backpage Shut Down?

Backpage was shut down by the U.S. government in 2018 due to allegations of facilitating illegal activities, particularly related to human trafficking and other unlawful services. This led to a crackdown on classified ad websites, resulting in many platforms revising their policies or shutting down entirely. However, the demand for online classified ads remains strong, leading to the rise of many new and reputable alternatives.

Best Backpage Alternatives in 2025

If you’re searching for a Backpage alternative to post or find ads, here are some of the best platforms available today:

1. Craigslist

Craigslist has been a leading name in the world of online classifieds for decades. It provides sections for job postings, housing, services, items for sale, and more. Users can post free or paid ads depending on the category and location.

Pros:

• Wide reach and popularity
• Free and paid ad options
• Covers almost every category of classified ads

Cons:

• High competition in major categories
• Potential for scams and spam ads

2. Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace has become a go-to platform for buying and selling items locally. It also offers job listings, property rentals, and service postings, making it an excellent Backpage alternative.

Pros:

• Free to use
• Built-in messaging and verification system
• Large user base for visibility

Cons:

• Requires a Facebook account
• Limited anonymity

3. Oodle

Oodle aggregates listings from various sources, including newspaper classifieds and other online marketplaces. It’s a great alternative for people looking for widespread exposure.

Pros:

• Integrates with Facebook for additional reach
• Large number of listings from multiple sources
• Free to use

Cons:

• Some listings may be outdated
• Limited moderation, increasing the risk of spam

4. Locanto

Locanto is another well-established classified ads website that provides free and paid listings for multiple categories, including jobs, real estate, vehicles, and personal services.

Pros:

• Free basic ad posting
• Available in multiple countries
• Good for local advertisements

Cons:

• Limited user base compared to Craigslist and Facebook
• Paid ads required for better visibility

5. ClassifiedAds.com

ClassifiedAds.com offers a simple and free platform for posting ads in multiple categories. The website has a clean interface and does not require users to create an account to post or browse listings.

Pros:

• Completely free to use
• No account required
• Covers various ad categories

Cons:

• Smaller audience compared to other platforms
• Limited advanced features

6. Geebo

Geebo is known for its focus on safety and moderation. It provides classified ads for jobs, vehicles, services, and more, with an emphasis on fraud prevention.

Pros:

• Well-moderated for reduced scams
• Free ad posting
• Simple interface

Cons:

• Smaller audience compared to Craigslist
• Limited international presence

7. OfferUp (Formerly Letgo)

OfferUp is a mobile-friendly platform designed for local buying and selling. It competes with Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist as a top destination for secondhand goods.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use mobile app
• Secure messaging system
• Option for shipping items nationwide

Cons:

• Limited to physical goods (no job postings or personal ads)
• Some categories require a fee for premium visibility

How to Choose the Best Backpage Alternative?

When selecting a classified ads website, consider the following factors:

1. Purpose of Your Ad

• Are you selling a product or service?
• Do you need a job posting platform?
• Are you looking for housing or real estate listings?

2. Target Audience

• Some platforms, like Facebook Marketplace, are great for local buyers and sellers.
• Others, like Craigslist, have a broader reach across different locations and categories.

3. Safety and Moderation

• Platforms like Geebo emphasize security, while others have limited moderation.
• Always be cautious and avoid sharing personal information with unknown parties.

4. Ad Cost and Visibility

• Free platforms are great for budget-conscious users.
• Paid ad options may provide better exposure, particularly in competitive categories.

Tips for Posting Effective Classified Ads

To increase engagement and response rates for your ads, follow these tips:

1. Write a Clear and Concise Title

• Use keywords that describe your product or service.
• Avoid excessive punctuation or misleading titles.

2. Include High-Quality Images

• Listings with images attract more attention.
• Use clear, well-lit photos of the product or service.

3. Provide Detailed Descriptions

• Include specifications, pricing, and relevant details.
• Be honest about the condition of the item or service.

4. Set a Competitive Price

• Research similar listings to ensure your pricing is fair.
• Be open to negotiation when necessary.

5. Use a Secure Contact Method

• Avoid sharing personal phone numbers or emails publicly.
• Use the platform’s built-in messaging system when available.

6. Respond Promptly to Inquiries

• Quick responses increase the likelihood of making a sale or securing a deal.
• Be polite and professional in your communication.

Although Backpage is no longer available, many alternatives provide excellent platforms for classified advertising. Whether you’re looking for a local marketplace like Facebook, a broad classifieds platform like Craigslist, or a niche-focused site like Geebo, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.

By choosing the right platform and following best practices for posting ads, you can effectively buy, sell, and connect with others online. Explore the options listed above and find the best Backpage alternative that works for you.