One of our readers recently asked if it's possible to create a BuzzFeed-like website using WordPress. BuzzFeed has become an internet powerhouse, famous for its viral quizzes, lists, and pop culture commentary. Its model has inspired countless creators. At WPBeginner, we've helped thousands launch similar sites—here's our proven guide to building yours easily with WordPress.
BuzzFeed dominates online media with engaging content on pop culture. It evolved into a major company, generating $250 million in revenue in 2016. This proven model lets bloggers monetize creativity while delivering real value to audiences.
As experienced WordPress users, we know this approach works for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking online income.
Start with the right platform. Among countless options, WordPress stands out as the world's leading content management system.
Did you know? WordPress powers over 30% of websites online.
We're referring to self-hosted WordPress.org, not WordPress.com. For a detailed comparison, see our WordPress.com vs WordPress.org guide. WordPress.org offers full control and ownership, ideal for a BuzzFeed-style site. Read our complete WordPress review for more.
To get started, you'll need three things:
Yes, you can launch in 40 minutes— we'll walk you through it.
This tutorial covers:
Ready? Let's dive in.
Begin by registering a domain and buying hosting.
Typically, domains cost $14.99/year and hosting $7.99/month (billed annually). That's a big upfront cost for beginners.
Luckily, Bluehost offers WPBeginner readers a free domain, free SSL, and 60% off hosting—starting at $2.75/month.
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Bluehost is a top global host and official WordPress recommendation.
Transparency note: We earn a small commission from referrals at no extra cost to you (you actually save). We only recommend what we use and trust, as proven WPBeginner experts.
Head to Bluehost, click 'Get Started Now'.
Select a plan—Basic or Plus are reader favorites.
Then pick your domain.
Domain tips for BuzzFeed-style sites:
More advice? Our perfect domain name guide.
Enter account details. Skip extras to save—they're optional later.
Add payment info to finish. You'll get hosting panel login via email.
Bluehost auto-installs WordPress—access from your panel.
Log in to manage content and settings.
Default WordPress themes are basic. Upgrade to these viral-focused options we've tested extensively.
Doberman excels for viral sites with social counters, trending posts, reactions, and sharing tools. 80+ options for custom colors/layouts, one-click demos—no coding needed.
Perfect for viral magazines: social shares, trending, AdSense spots, 'load more' buttons, email opt-ins. SEO-optimized with schema.
Stunning for magazines/newspapers with ad placements, flexible layouts, unlimited colors.
Free multi-color theme for viral sites—modern, lightweight, plugin-friendly.
Boosts engagement, ad-ready, easy custom panel.
Free magazine theme with featured sections, ad areas, simple options.
Explore more in our best WordPress magazine themes.
BuzzFeed thrives on quizzes, lists, memes. Evolve yours uniquely.
WordPress handles all: posts, images, videos, galleries. See our add new post guide.
Key tools:
Develop your voice for loyalty. Post 3x/week initially, scale to daily. Ideas? Our 73 blog post types or inspire from peers ethically.
Viral success demands traffic. Here's our battle-tested advice.
Master SEO: Optimize for Google. WordPress is SEO-ready—follow our beginner SEO guide.
Boost Speed: Fast sites win. Implement our WordPress speed guide.
Analytics Insights: Use Google Analytics for real data on popular content and behavior.
BuzzFeed earns via ads and sponsorships. Start here:
1. Google AdSense: Easy ads. Our AdSense guide.
2. Social Following: Build on Instagram/YouTube; share to blog.
3. Affiliates: Promote via Amazon etc. Manage with our affiliate links guide.
More: Our blog monetization ways.
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This guide equips you for BuzzFeed success. Boost traffic with our free tips.
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