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!