Before we get started, we should first address what a directory website actually is and whether it makes sense to launch this type of website in 2023. If you are already familiar with what it is and are set on creating one, then feel free to skip ahead by using the table of contents links above. Otherwise, let’s continue…<\/p>\n\n\n
What is a directory website?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A directory website, also known as a web directory or link directory, is an online platform that lists and categorizes websites or web pages under various topics or themes. These directories serve as curated collections of links that provide users with an organized way to find relevant websites based on their interests or needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Directories typically have a hierarchical structure, with categories and subcategories that help users navigate to the specific topic they are interested in. Each listing in the directory typically includes the website’s title, URL, brief description, and sometimes additional information such as the site’s owner, contact information, and user reviews.<\/p>\n\n\n
Does it make sense to build a directory website in 2023?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Directory websites were more popular in the earlier days of the internet before search engines like Google became dominant. People used directories to find websites on specific topics, as search engines were not as efficient or comprehensive at the time. However, with the advent of powerful search engines, many traditional web directories have declined in popularity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Today, web directories still exist, but they often serve specialized niches or local markets. Some directories may focus on specific industries, regions, or types of websites, providing a curated list of resources for users with particular interests. For example, Avvo<\/a> is a legal directory that connects users with lawyers and legal advice. It offers attorney profiles, client reviews, and legal guides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, some directories may include user-generated content and reviews to enhance the value of the listings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In summary, despite their overall decline in popularity, there are still many successful, lucrative directory websites on the internet today. There is no reason why yours can’t be among them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n So, if you’re ready to create a directory website, then let’s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n Here at Themeisle, we always recommend building websites with WordPress<\/a>. There are multiple reasons for this<\/a>. These include\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we mentioned earlier, if you choose to create a directory website with WordPress, you will need to purchase a hosting plan and domain name. We’ll explain how to do that in the next section.<\/p>\n\n\n There are a wide assortment of hosting services and plans available<\/a>. Therefore, you will need to do some research to find the right host for your directory website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So what factors should you consider when you are choosing a hosting provider? Here are a few of the most important:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2b50 We recommend Bluehost<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n At Themeisle, we recommend Bluehost<\/a> for those starting a new project because…<\/p>\n\n\n\n Installing a directory WordPress theme is an effective way to ensure your website not only looks the part but also has all the necessary directory features a directory website needs. There are a wide assortment of free and premium themes that you can choose from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s take a look at some top features that you may want your directory theme to include…<\/p>\n\n\n\n The features you will want your theme to include may vary depending on the type of directory site you are creating. You may want to list local businesses, events, real estate<\/a>, jobs, tourist attractions, or create a directory website for a different niche. However, whatever the type of directory site you are going to create, here are some key features that you may want your theme to incorporate…<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before you commit to a theme, make sure you check out the demos and read reviews<\/a>. This will ensure you have a good understanding of what features a theme includes before you make a purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here’s a list of themes built specifically to handle directory websites. Check them out, you’ll surely find something interesting there.<\/p>\n\n\n There are numerous ways to monetize a directory site. The strategies you choose will influence how you create your website. Let\u2019s take a look at some of the different options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Select the monetary options that work for your niche. Keep in mind however, that the strategies you use can change over time as your site and audience numbers grow. Most modern themes will integrate with payment gateway providers like PayPal and Stripe to allow you to take payments on your website.<\/p>\n\n\n WordPress plugins extend the functionality of your website by providing specific features that aren’t otherwise available in either your chosen theme or the native WordPress Block Editor<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When thinking about which plugins to add to your directory website, you want to approach it in two ways – adding foundational plugins<\/strong> and adding directory-specific plugins<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These plugins are what you’d consider foundational plugins in the sense that they can benefit any website and aren’t specific to directory websites. They include:<\/p>\n\n\n\nHow to create a directory website (5 steps)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Choose a website platform \ud83d\ude89<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Create](\"https:\/\/mllj2j8xvfl0.i.optimole.com\/cb:c5QE.37290\/w:auto\/h:auto\/q:mauto\/f:best\/https:\/\/themeisle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/WordPress.png\")
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2. Select a hosting plan and domain name \ud83d\udcbb<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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![\"Bluehost](\"https:\/\/mllj2j8xvfl0.i.optimole.com\/cb:c5QE.37290\/w:auto\/h:auto\/q:mauto\/f:best\/https:\/\/themeisle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Bluehost.png\")
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3. Install a WordPress directory theme \ud83c\udfa8<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Directory theme features<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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4. Decide how to monetize your site \ud83d\udcb0<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Yelp.\"](\"https:\/\/mllj2j8xvfl0.i.optimole.com\/cb:c5QE.37290\/w:auto\/h:auto\/q:mauto\/f:best\/https:\/\/themeisle.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/yelp.png\")
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5. Add extra functionality via plugins \ud83d\udd0c<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Foundational plugins<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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