- GitHub stars
- 55,524
- License
- MIT
- Latest release
- v6.69.0
7 October 2026 - Last commit
- 13 October 2026
- Runs on
- Node.js
Commits per month, last 12 months
5,842 commits
Replaces
Paid products Ghost can stand in for.
How to self-host Ghost
Ghost runs on Node.js. The project's own install guide is the place to start; most people put it on a small server with Docker and a reverse proxy for HTTPS.
- Get a server: a home server, a VPS, or a managed app host.
- Install it the way the project's docs describe, usually with Docker Compose.
- Put it behind HTTPS and set up backups before you add real data.
- Update it regularly. Watch the project's releases.
Similar apps
- WriteFreely
Writing software for starting a minimalist, federated blog — or an entire community.
- Ech0
Lightweight federated publishing platform focused on personal idea sharing (documentation in Chinese).
- HTMLy
Databaseless PHP blogging platform. A flat-file CMS that allows you to create a fast, secure, and powerful website or blog in seconds.
- Known
Collaborative social publishing platform.
- Haven
Private blogging system with markdown editing and built in RSS reader.
- Chyrp Lite
Extra-awesome, extra-lightweight blog engine.
Questions
Is Ghost free?
Yes. Ghost is open source under the MIT license, so you can use it without paying for a license. You pay only for the server it runs on.
Can I self-host Ghost?
Yes. Ghost runs on Node.js. Follow the install guide in the project's documentation, or use a host that installs it for you.
What does Ghost replace?
People use Ghost instead of beehiiv, Medium, Substack or Blogger.
Is Ghost still maintained?
The last change to Ghost's code was on 13 October 2026, with 5842 commits in the last 12 months.
Topics
App data from awesome-selfhosted (CC BY-SA 3.0), stars and activity from GitHub.