Backpage was one of the most famous online classifieds sites as it allowed users to post and access advertisements related to services, jobs, real estate, and even adult entertainment. The platform was seized and shut down by the FBI in 2018 which complicated life for a lot of users who relied on the site. Are you searching for sites similar to Backpage? You’re not the only one as many users are looking for alternatives to meet their classified ad needs.
In this post, we will look at some of the websites that are good alternatives for replacing Backpage in case of adult services, local services, housing, or even dating. 2backpage gathered the most positive reviews which makes it the top ranked site. Here is all the information you need on websites that are similar to Backpage, starting with our top recommendation, 2backpage.
What Happened to Backpage?
Originally established in 2004, Backpage was a site where individuals could post and browse classified advertisements for almost anything. The site, however, came under fire for the adult services section, and became a topic in people’s debates. After years of scrutiny, the U.S. government seized the site in 2018. Following the shutdown, many Backpage users who relied on it for selling and buying items, accessing housing, or checking personal ads were left without alternative solutions.
What Are Websites Similar to Backpage?
When Backpage ceased operations, many of these users were on the search for new platforms that could fill the gap and offer comparable services. Many more sites offering the same functions emerged such as adult services, personal advertisements, and pretty much everything else. These platforms offer users the ability to browse ads and post them on a multitude of topics. So without further ado, let us delve deeper into some of the most notable options that can replace Backpage starting from 2backpage, which has rapidly gained popularity.
Why is 2backpage the Best Alternative to Backpage?
2backpage is now considered one of the best sites like Backpage for many reasons and has recently attracted great attention among users. They are highly trusted by users for posting and viewing classified ads and as such they do not shy away from advertising themselves as market leaders claiming half of the users online use their services.
User-Friendly Interface
2backpage has many advantages, however, the most important one is that it has an easy-to-use interface. This site has organized and attractive design and allows users to post or browse ads by category with ease. Finding a rental, a job, or even adult services can be done without any complications on 2backpage.
Wide Range of Categories
Compared to Backpage, 2backpage is more versatile in that it encompasses a broader range of categories. The platform has numerous categories ranging from a job and personal ads to services, housing, and even adult services. This diversity is appealing to different users, whether one is looking for local services or seeking more private arrangements.
Privacy and Security
The privacy and security of users is always a concern when it comes to classified ads, especially when personal and adult services details are included. 2backpage pays serious attention to user privacy, enabling users to feel safe because their sensitive information is not disclosed. This is quite an attraction for many users switching to this platform and it makes browsing and posting much safer.
Responsive Customer Support
Customer support is another feature that users benefit from on 2backpage. If you are having trouble posting an ad or navigating the site, the customer support representatives are there to help you resolve the matter in the shortest time possible. This type of customer care allows users to feel appreciated and supported on the platform.
Free to Use
Most such websites either offer paid posting plans to upload ads or charge a premium subscription for using some features. On the contrary, 2backpage allows users to post ads freely without any restrictions. This is beneficial for people seeking to promote their ads and interact with other users without incurring any fees.
What Are The Other Alternatives For Backpage?
2backpage is recognized for being as close to Backpage as possible; however, there are other sites like it that offer competing services.Here are some other alternatives that you might find helpful:
1. Craigslist
Craigslist is the most famous and popular alternative for Backpage. Founded in 1995, Craigslist has all types of classified ads, to include but not limited to; housing, jobs, services offered, and personal ads. Even though Craigslist does not have as much popularity as Backpage when it comes to adult services, it remains a go to option for many users to look up classified ads of any nature.
Just like any other service out there, Craigslist has its pros and cons. In this case, it is a great alternative for general classified ads, however, lacking a dedicated adult services section decreases its appeal and value to users who relied on Backpage for adult services. Regardless, it is still a good and reliable source for numerous listings.
2. Classified Ads
If you are looking for local services, job opportunities, or even personal ads, Craigslist Classified Ads comes as an excellent alternative to Backpage. Just like 2backpage, it has a straightforward design which makes it easier to post and browse through the ads. In addition to that, it also offers free listings for users in a number of categories such as housing, personals, and services. If you are looking for a particular site that allows placing ads without the need to pay complicated fees, then indeed Classified Ads is the site you need to go to.
3. Locanto
Locanto is a worldwide classified ad site that offers similar services to Backpage. The platform offers users the ability to create listings for different categories like jobs, housing, and community services. Locanto is widely available in many countries which is great for users around the world. Although it doesn’t focus on adult services, it still offers a strong selection of personal ads and other sections common for Backpage users.
Locanto is free of charge although users can pay for premium listings to increase their ad’s visibility. If you are looking for an option focused on a wider international audience, then Locanto is the site you need.
4. Gumtree
Gumtree is one of the most popular classified ads websites in the UK and Australia. It features an extensive range of services, including employment opportunities, properties, and personal advertisements. Unlike others, Gumtree is a perfect option for those seeking credible platforms to post or view classified ads. That said, it is better for non-adult ads since it does not prioritize adult services like Craigslist does.
It is easy to navigate through the wide selection of categories on Gumtree, which makes it favorable for users who wish to find or post services in different areas. The website is free, although payment can be made for enhanced visibility.
5. Oodle
Oodle is another site that follows in Backpage’s footsteps of offering classified advertisements. The website allows users to post personal ads, offer services, and sell items without any charges. By collecting ads from other sites, Oodle makes it easier for users to find more listings and stands out from the crowd.
Oodle is great for users seeking a broad range of advertisements since it offers many categories. In particular, it is helpful to people looking for employment and housing in specific areas.
6. obackpage
obackpage is yet another important option for users that used to enjoy Backpage. This site seeks to recreate the type of classified services that people who used Backpage were accustomed to like personal ads, jobs, housing, and so forth. Reinstate the essence of Backpage while giving priority to adult services.
Users are allowed to post free ads under the categories of personals, escort, and dating. Backpage’s main strength has always been the ease of access to the site and posting of free ads and obackpage makes sure to not disappoint the users who were let down by the closure of Backpage.
Even if obackpage focuses heavily on adult content, the diverse listings that the site offers, helps the site to attract a wider range of users.
7. starbackpage
As for the folks searching for the best alternatives to Backpage, starbackpage is another excellent option. Just like obackpage, starbackpage concentrates on personal ads, services, and adult listings. The site tries to offer similar experiences to Backpage users, unlike other sites. Therefore, users are able to post ads for escort services, housing, and jobs and so much more.
starbackpage’s tidy layout coupled with the selection of categories make it a sophisticated option for users who want something that resembles Backpage. starbackpage, like other alternatives, is free to use, which allows users to post advertisements without spending a dime. The popularity of the site among users looking for personal connections can be attributed to the focus on personal and adult services.
Why Are Users in Search for Backpage Like Websites?
The closure of Backpage left a lot of users searching for backpage-like websites as its services were quite broad. From personal connections to advertising, Backpage serves the needs of a lot of users. People looking for alternative services to the ones Backpage provides are looking for other options since Backpage is no longer operational.
There are also some issues regarding safety, particularly for users dealing with personal ads on Backpage. Many users looking for alternatives to Backpage place priority on privacy, which makes these applications appealing to people concerned about their safety.
Conclusion
Looking for websites that are like Backpage can be a daunting task because of the former platform’s shutdown. Nevertheless, several other options offer comparable services and functions. 2backpage, in particular, appears to be one of the best alternatives. It is easy to use, allows free listings, and has many categories which makes it suitable for anyone looking to fill the gap that Backpage left.
Craigslist, Classified Ads, Locanto, Gumtree, Oodle, obackpage, and starbackpage have also become notable competitors as these sites offer the same services but some are more focused on specific areas like jobs or housing. These alternatives can be explored depending on what you are looking for. From posting a job advertisement to looking for a house and even checking out personal ads, these sites provide numerous chances for the public and companies.