When Craigslist shut down its personals section, it left a massive gap in the online classifieds space. Luckily, there are alternatives to Craigslist personals: several modern platforms have stepped in to fill that void. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Craigslist replacements that help you connect, post ads, and meet people in your area. From free classifieds to adult-friendly dating apps, these sites are the most reliable and secure ways to continue what Craigslist started.
Best Craigslist Personals Replacements for 2025
| Site | Choose if you're looking for... |
|---|---|
| Adult Friend Finder | Adult hookups |
| Ashley Madison | Discreet affairs |
| One Night Friend | Local singles |
| Locanto | Classifieds ads |
| Oodle | Local deals |
| Classified Ads | Essential listings |
| Facebook Marketplace | Casual buying and selling |
| PoshMark | Fashion-focused purchases |
| OfferUp | Local Buy/Sell |
| Gumtree | Connections near you |
| Carvana | Buying Used Cars |
Before Craigslist removed its personals, users could browse thousands of unique listings with just a few clicks. Today, the best Craigslist alternative sites have evolved to offer more specialized features, better user verification, and curated experiences for everything from casual dating to classified-style connections.
Below, you’ll find expert-driven reviews of the top 10 Craigslist personals replacements. Each platform is evaluated for ease of use, key features, safety, and its ability to deliver the kind of connection you’re looking for—whether that’s a casual meetup tonight or a like-minded companion in your local area.
1. Adult Friend Finder
Adult Friend Finder is one of the most established casual dating platforms online and an ideal Craigslist personals replacement if you’re seeking steamy, no-commitment encounters. With millions of active users across the U.S. and globally, the site supports everything from flirtatious chatting to arranging real-life hookups. The advanced search tools let you filter by location, kink, and even specific relationship dynamics, making it a go-to for adults with clear expectations.
You’ll get access to adult chat rooms, live webcam interactions, and group forums. The platform also allows you to post “hotlists,” browse other users' desires, and exchange private content safely.
Pros:
- Huge and active member base
- Supports both casual and kinky encounters
- Detailed search filters to find people with mutual interests
- Strong reputation and trust signals
Cons:
- Key features are locked behind a premium paywall
- UI can feel outdated on mobile
Visit Adult Friend Finder today!
Adult Friend Finder blends the wild west energy of old Craigslist personals with modern safety and user tools, making it one of the most reliable options for casual adult connections online.
2. Ashley Madison
Ashley Madison has long been the go-to online platform for people seeking connections outside of traditional relationships. If Craigslist's personals section served as a confidential escape, Ashley Madison offers a more secure, polished upgrade. It’s tailored for those looking for affairs or open-minded companionship, all while prioritizing user privacy and discretion.
The website uses automatic message suggestions, discreet profile browsing, and anonymous payment options. It also includes features like “Traveling Man” that lets you set up dates in cities you’re visiting.
Pros:
- Built specifically for discreet, extramarital affairs
- Emphasis on privacy and security
- Active international user base
- Female profiles use the platform for free
Cons:
- Premium pricing can add up
- Not suitable for traditional dating
Ashley Madison doesn't just replace Craigslist for discreet connections and online dating—it elevates the experience with privacy-first tech and a niche-focused community.
3. One Night Friend
If you’re looking for a platform that mimics the casual vibe of Craigslist personals but with added convenience and speed, One Night Friend is your match. It focuses on short-term relationships and flirty local chats, with a streamlined signup process that lets you start browsing instantly.
One Night Friend offers flirty icebreakers, photo and video exchanges, and a smart-match system that prioritizes nearby singles. Its sleek layout makes it one of the easiest platforms to use, especially for quick meetups.
Pros:
- Great for casual, short-term dating
- Mobile-friendly and intuitive interface
- Emphasis on local matches
- Easy sign-up process
Cons:
- Key features require a paid membership
- Not ideal for long-term dating seekers
This platform wins for speed and simplicity—perfect for anyone missing the immediate gratification of Craigslist's no-frills hookup section.
4. Locanto
Locanto is a free classifieds website that captures the spirit of Craigslist better than almost any other platform. With a dedicated personals section, local listings, various categories, and anonymous communication options, it remains a strong alternative for those who used Craigslist for a variety of personal and casual posts.
Locanto includes free ad listings across dating, services, local events, and more. Users can filter by city, post ads with images, and engage in safe chats without revealing personal details.
Pros:
- 100% free to use
- Available in hundreds of cities
- Mimics Craigslist’s layout and key features
- Great for online personal ads and local discovery
Cons:
- No moderation for scammy listings
- Less interactive than dedicated dating platforms
Locanto stays true to the Craigslist vibe while adding subtle improvements in usability—perfect for those looking for variety and free access to local connections.
5. Oodle
Oodle is a smart classifieds aggregator that pulls listings from Craigslist, eBay, local newspapers, and more—giving users one of the most complete local buying experiences online. Whether you're searching for a used car, secondhand furniture, or housing near you, Oodle simplifies the process with advanced search filters and optional Facebook integration for more trustworthy transactions.
Top Features:
Oodle blends local listings with national ones, offering an all-in-one classifieds feed. Users can filter by location, category, price, or date, and even link their social profiles for added trust. It supports listings in real estate, vehicles, jobs, services, and personal ads.
Pros:
- Pulls listings from multiple sources (Craigslist, eBay, etc.)
- Built-in location filters for hyperlocal results
- Option to connect Facebook for social trust
- Covers dozens of ad categories
- Free to use with optional upgrades for ad visibility
Cons:
- The interface feels outdated compared to newer platforms
- Still contains occasional spam or scam listings
- Doesn’t support real-time chat or advanced buyer/seller tools
Oodle takes Craigslist's core idea and supercharges it with smarter search and broader coverage, making it a top pick for bargain hunters and casual sellers who want more variety without sacrificing locality.
6. Classified Ads
If you’re after a stripped-down, no-nonsense alternative to Craigslist personals, Classified Ads nails the format. It’s one of the most faithful reproductions of Craigslist’s old layout, offering detailed personal ads, job postings, and community hub sections with virtually no learning curve.
Expect an easy-to-use posting tool, basic categorization by ad type and location, and a straightforward communication setup via email or contact form. It’s all text-based—no swipes, matches, or AI.
Pros:
- Simple and free
- No account needed to browse or post
- Feels very similar to original Craigslist
- Good for casual or “missed connections” listings
Cons:
- Little moderation can lead to spam
- No built-in user verification
This platform brings back the minimalist charm of early online classifieds, making it the ideal Craigslist clone for personal ads and community-driven posts.
7. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is one of the most accessible Craigslist alternatives, built right into the Facebook app. With millions of users browsing daily, it’s a great option for buying and selling everything from furniture and clothing to used cars and electronics—all while leveraging real profiles and Messenger for easier communication.
Facebook Marketplace offers free listings with photo uploads, location-based browsing, and seamless messaging via Facebook Messenger. It also supports shipping for some items and includes helpful tools for vehicle listings like estimated values and financing info.
Pros:
- Integrated with Facebook for real identity and easier communication
- Completely free to use for local transactions
- Huge built-in audience with high visibility
- Mobile-first design makes selling super easy
- Useful filters for price, category, and location
Cons:
- Still vulnerable to scams and fake buyers/sellers
- Limited tools for professional sellers or analytics
- Shipping sales incur a 5–10% fee
- Feed can get cluttered with irrelevant posts
Visit Facebook Marketplace today!
Facebook Marketplace blends the casual, freeform nature of Craigslist with the social features of Facebook, making it ideal for everyday sellers who want convenience, trust, and fast local deals without needing a separate app.
8. PoshMark
Poshmark is a resale marketplace tailored specifically for fashion lovers. Unlike Craigslist’s general classifieds format, Poshmark focuses exclusively on new and secondhand clothing, accessories, and lifestyle items. With a strong social component, easy shipping, and built-in buyer protection, it’s a standout choice for casual sellers and serious style seekers alike.
Poshmark lets users set up virtual closets to sell their items, participate in themed shopping parties, and follow other sellers to stay on trend. Listings are mobile-friendly and include built-in tools for bundling, offering discounts, and promoting items to a wider audience.
Pros:
- Highly curated space for fashion, shoes, and accessories
- Active community focused on style and discovery
- Simple mobile interface for listing and selling items
- Secure payments and shipping are handled in-app
- Tools for discounts, bundling, and seller promotion
Cons:
- 20% fee on sales over $15; $2.95 fee for smaller sales
- Competitive environment—some listings take time to move
- Limited to fashion and lifestyle categories only
- Social elements may feel overwhelming to new users
Poshmark reimagines Craigslist’s peer-to-peer concept for the fashion world. It offers a clean, secure, and community-driven experience that’s perfect for anyone looking to declutter their closet, flip designer finds, or browse stylish pieces without the chaos of a general classifieds website.
9. OfferUp
OfferUp is a user-friendly mobile marketplace designed for easy local buying and selling. With a clean app interface, verified profiles, and in-app messaging, it modernizes the Craigslist experience—perfect for anyone looking to list items fast and connect safely with nearby buyers.
OfferUp features a mobile-first design that makes it easy to list items with just a photo and description. Users can chat directly through the app without sharing personal information. Profiles include ratings and verification badges to build trust, and the platform promotes safe transactions by encouraging meetups at designated public Safe Trade Spots. Listings are free, with optional paid “bump” upgrades to increase visibility.
Pros:
- Quick and intuitive listing process
- Builds trust through ratings and ID verification
- Secure messaging within the app
- Encourages safe meetups with designated public spots
- Free listings (shipping available for a fee)
Cons:
- Local reach mostly in the U.S., not global
- Some sellers must pay to bump listings
- Still susceptible to occasional scams
- Fewer tools for professional sellers or bulk inventory
OfferUp captures Craigslist’s simplicity but raises the bar with mobile convenience, verified users, and built-in safety features—ideal for casual sellers who want local reach without the complexity of bigger platforms.
10. Gumtree
Gumtree is a top classifieds platform popular in the UK, Australia, South Africa, and other regions. Much like Craigslist, it allows free listings across categories such as items for sale, jobs, services, rentals, and vehicles. Over time, it has evolved into a more user-friendly, community-focused marketplace with added features to support both casual users and small businesses.
Gumtree supports free ad listings for most categories, including property, jobs, and secondhand goods. It also offers optional paid features like promoted listings and business packages. Users can view ratings and engage with verified profiles, while the platform emphasizes safety through its trust and community initiatives. The interface is modern and available on both desktop and mobile.
Pros:
- Free to list items in most major categories
- Clean, modern interface for better usability
- User ratings and safety tools improve trust
- Broad local reach in multiple countries
- Optional upgrades for added visibility
Cons:
- Still experiences spam and scam listings
- Customer support can be inconsistent
- Some niche categories may have low activity
Gumtree takes the Craigslist concept and polishes it with modern design, verified users, and promotional tools, making it ideal for locals who want a simple, trusted, and flexible classifieds platform without paying to post.
11. Carvana
Carvana offers a fully online and stress-free car-buying experience, positioning itself as a modern alternative to Craigslist’s local vehicle listings. It’s ideal for buyers who want transparency, convenience, and protection—all from the comfort of their home.
Top Features:
Carvana allows you to browse, finance, and purchase used cars entirely online. Each listing includes 360° photos, detailed inspection reports, and a free vehicle history report. Buyers can choose between home delivery or picking up from a branded car vending machine. Every purchase comes with a 7-day return policy, and financing options are available directly through the site.
Pros:
- Transparent, no-haggle pricing with no hidden fees
- Convenient home delivery or pickup options
- Safety net with a 7‑day test drive/return window
- Comprehensive inspection and history info for each vehicle
- Streamlined financing is included in the buying process
Cons:
- Prices may be higher than private-party deals on Craigslist
- Limited to regions where Carvana operates
- Lacks the bargaining and local meet-up aspect of Craigslist
- Return shipping may not be covered if outside the service area
Carvana revolutionizes the traditional classifieds car search by eliminating in-person negotiations and risk. Its all-digital approach, combined with delivery and a “test drive at home” policy, makes it an appealing choice for buyers seeking simplicity,
Safety Tips for Using Craigslist Personals Alternatives
Choose a Trusted Craigslist Replacement
Before joining any site, make sure your chosen Craigslist personals replacement is well-reviewed, active, and has clear safety policies. Established platforms with verified profiles and strong moderation help reduce the risk of scams and unsafe encounters.
Verifying Profiles Before Meeting
A good Craigslist replacement should offer verification tools such as photo checks or ID confirmation. Always cross-check details through video chats or social media to confirm the person’s identity before agreeing to meet in person.
Protecting Personal Information
When using a Craigslist personals alternative, avoid sharing sensitive details like your home address, workplace, or full legal name too early. Stick to the platform’s messaging system and consider using a separate email for online dating activities.
Meeting in Safe Locations
If you decide to meet someone from an alternative to Craigslist personals, choose a public location with plenty of people around. Inform a trusted friend about your plans and set up a check-in time for added safety.
Recognizing Red Flags on Any Site
Watch out for suspicious behavior such as requests for money, inconsistent stories, or reluctance to share verifiable information. A reputable Craigslist personals replacement will encourage safe interactions and allow you to report suspicious accounts.
How to Choose the Best Craigslist Personals Alternative
With so many platforms claiming to be the best replacement for Craigslist personals, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Whether you're looking for sexual encounters, discreet affairs, or simply a place to post personal ads, the key is finding a site that matches your intent while offering safety, usability, and reach.
Here’s what to consider when selecting the best Craigslist personals alternative:
1. Define Your Intent First
Not all Craigslist replacements serve the same purpose. Some platforms focus on casual hookups and flings (like One Night Friend), while others cater to long-term dating (Plenty of Fish) or niche communities (Pernals for LGBTQ+ and kink-friendly ads). Think about whether you're after a casual connection, a serious relationship, or anonymous fun—and choose a site designed for that specific experience.
2. Prioritize Local Reach
One of Craigslist’s key strengths was its focus on local personal ads. When evaluating sites similar to Craigslist, make sure the platform allows you to connect with users in your city or region. Tools like location-based filters or ZIP code targeting can make or break your experience, especially if quick meetups are your goal.
3. Look for Safety and Anonymity
Since Craigslist was shut down due to safety and legal concerns, your chosen Craigslist personals replacement must prioritize security. Seek platforms that offer anonymous messaging, profile verification, and moderation tools to reduce scams. Sites like Ashley Madison and Adult Friend Finder offer strong privacy features that keep things discreet.
4. Evaluate Features vs. Free Access
While Craigslist personals were completely free, many modern alternatives have premium features. Decide if you're okay with upgrading to access more filters, messaging options, or video chats. Some options—like Locanto and Classified Ads—are still entirely free, but may lack some of the polish or interactivity of paid services.
5. Read User Reviews
Before committing, spend time browsing each site’s interface. Is it easy to use? Are profiles detailed and active? A modern UI and high engagement levels are often signs of a quality Craigslist alternative. Don’t forget to read user reviews to get a sense of real-world experiences with the platform.
How Do Craigslist Personals Alternatives Work?
Craigslist personals alternatives replicate the core function of the original Craigslist section: connecting people for personal, casual, or romantic interactions. These modern platforms, however, improve on the original by offering better search tools, enhanced privacy, and more interactive features tailored to specific relationship types.
Most sites similar to Craigslist fall into two categories:
- Classified-style platforms like Locanto and Classified Ads, allow you to post and respond to text-based ads much like traditional newspaper classifieds.
- Dating-style platforms like Adult Friend Finder, Tinder, or Pernals, use algorithms, location data, and curated profiles to help users match and message directly.
Here's how it typically works:
- Create a Free Account – Most Craigslist replacements offer a basic signup with email verification.
- Set Your Preferences – Choose your location, age range, gender, and intent (dating, casual meetup, etc.).
- Browse or Post Ads – Some sites allow you to browse personal ads, while others rely on mutual matching or swiping mechanics.
- Message & Connect – Once matched or interested, users can chat, share images, or arrange in-person meetups—all from a secure, often anonymous interface.
While the user experience may vary slightly depending on whether you're using a Craigslist personals replacement focused on dating or classifieds, the core idea remains: connecting like-minded adults quickly, safely, and locally.
Payment Options in Craigslist Personals Replacements
While Craigslist was known for its free online personals section, many modern alternatives offer tiered features—making payment options a key consideration when choosing where to post or connect. Whether you're unlocking premium messaging, boosting your ad visibility, or accessing exclusive content, the best Craigslist alternative sites provide flexible, secure payment systems to keep things simple and discreet.
Here are the most common payment methods you'll find:
Credit & Debit Cards:
Nearly all major platforms accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and AMEX. These options are fast, widely supported, and typically allow for recurring billing on subscriptions.
PayPal & E-Wallets:
Some Craigslist-style dating or personal ad platforms support PayPal, Skrill, or Neteller—great for users who prefer not to share card details directly. E-wallets also allow for faster withdrawals and enhanced privacy.
Prepaid Cards & Gift Cards:
On adult or discretion-focused sites like Ashley Madison or Adult Friend Finder, prepaid debit cards or gift cards are often accepted. This is ideal if you want to maintain anonymity during your transaction.
Cryptocurrency (select platforms):
While not common across all Craigslist personals replacements, a few modern dating sites—especially those with adult content—now accept Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for enhanced privacy and untraceable billing.
Mobile Billing & App Store Payments:
Apps like Tinder and Plenty of Fish allow you to upgrade through the Google Play or Apple App Store, which is convenient if you're using your mobile device and want seamless billing.
Alternative to Craigslist Personals – FAQs
Are Craigslist alternatives safe?
Yes—if you choose a trusted site. Reputable Craigslist replacement platforms like Ashley Madison, POF, and Adult Friend Finder use secure payment systems, encrypted chats, and moderation tools. Always use caution with personal information and meet in public when connecting offline.
Are these sites free like Craigslist was?
Some sites—such as Locanto and Classified Ads—remain 100% free. Others offer basic functionality for free but require a paid upgrade to unlock advanced features like video chat or unlimited messaging. If budget is a concern, start with free options and scale up as needed.
Can I stay anonymous on the new Craigslist personals?
Yes. Many of the new Craigslist personals alternatives allow anonymous browsing, nickname-based profiles, and even discreet billing. Ashley Madison and Meet-N-Hook are especially good at preserving user privacy.
Which alternative is best Craigslist Personal Replacement for casual encounters?
If you’re looking for hookups or one-night stands, One Night Friend is one of the top picks. These sites are built specifically for adult connections without relationship pressure.
What are the best Craigslist alternatives for job listings?
Some of the most reliable Craigslist alternatives for job listings include Indeed, ZipRecruiter, Monster, and Facebook Jobs. These platforms offer more advanced filtering tools, user-friendly interfaces, and better fraud protection—making your job hunt safer and more effective than using traditional classifieds.
Why did Craigslist remove personal ads?
Craigslist removed its personal ads section in response to the Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA-SESTA), a law designed to combat sex trafficking online. This led many platforms to tighten restrictions on adult and personal ads to avoid legal risks, prompting users to seek alternative sites for dating, personals, and connections.
Are there Craigslist alternatives that support local community events?
Yes! Platforms like Nextdoor, Facebook Events, and Patch have become popular places to post and discover community events. These alternatives function as a community hub, helping neighbors stay informed about local happenings, fundraisers, yard sales, and meetups.
How has Online Sex Trafficking changed online classifieds?
The Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA-SESTA) drastically impacted online classifieds by holding platforms liable for user-generated content that may promote or facilitate trafficking. As a result, Craigslist and many other sites removed entire sections to combat sex trafficking, pushing users to find new forums and websites for legal, consensual adult services and listings.
Which sites are safer for job seekers than Craigslist?
For a secure job hunt, try reputable job boards like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Snagajob. These platforms verify employers and offer resources like salary insights, company reviews, and application tracking—features that Craigslist lacks.
Other Platforms That Serve as Craigslist Personals Replacements
Since Craigslist shut down, users looking for casual dating, hookups, and adult services have turned to more specialized platforms that offer better safety, targeting, and variety. Whether you’re searching for something spontaneous, sugar-fueled, or discreet and local, the options below represent modern replacements that cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.
Gay Hookup Sites
Top gay hookup sites provide dedicated spaces for men seeking casual encounters, chat, or real-world meetups. While Craigslist offered limited LGBTQ+ support, today’s platforms are more inclusive and built with features like location filters, profile verification, and privacy settings. These sites are ideal for gay and bi-curious users looking for fast, reliable ways to connect without judgment or outdated restrictions.
Sugar Momma Sites
Best sugar momma sites cater to younger men interested in dating or forming arrangements with successful, older women. While Craigslist Personals once had a mix of these dynamics buried in its listings, today’s sugar momma platforms offer structure, privacy, and purpose-built tools to match compatible partners. They’re a strong choice for those seeking maturity, financial support, or relationship dynamics rooted in mutual benefit.
Hookup Apps
The best hookup apps guide highlights mobile-first platforms designed for instant chemistry and casual fun. From swipe-style apps to niche communities, these tools now lead the charge in replacing Craigslist’s former personals section. They’re fast, discreet, and ideal for users who value convenience and directness in finding partners nearby—whether for a one-night stand or a regular fling.
Standard Escort Sites
The escort sites offer curated directories of professional companions across various categories, including GFE, fetish, and travel-friendly services. For users who once browsed Craigslist for adult services, these platforms offer a safer, more polished experience with verified profiles, reviews, and booking options. They’re perfect for those who want reliability and transparency when seeking premium adult companionship.
Denver Escorts Platforms
Denver Escorts platforms specialize in local discovery, allowing users to find independent providers or agencies in their immediate area. With filters for services, rates, and availability, these platforms offer a level of accessibility and accuracy that Craigslist Personals never could. Whether you're traveling or browsing from home, these services make it easy to find nearby companionship discreetly and safely.
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. Your use of any of the sites listed in this article is subject to each site's terms and conditions. Laws vary from state to state and over time. It is your sole responsibility to ensure the use of any sites or any of the adult services provided through the sites is compliant with your jurisdiction's laws. The information provided herein shall not be used in any way to exchange money for sex.
