When starting a business website or blog, some people out there have concerns about WordPress.
They wonder how a free platform could possibly serve them well, questioning areas like security and scalability. W
ell, those questions often have very little merit, since the vast majority of websites in the world are running on the popular WordPress content management system.
In fact, over 74.6 million sites currently use WordPress, and that number grows every day.
Since there are so many options out there for content management systems (CMS), like WordPress, Drupal, Joomla! and Blogger, where do you start with your choice?
Well, judging by the name of this site, and the amount of people who are currently using the WordPress interface, it’s fairly clear as to where we stand. WordPress is not only used by small-time bloggers who write their ramblings on their lunch hours.
Keep reading to learn about popular brands using WordPress. After that, we’ll look into why WordPress is so popular. But first, what is WordPress, actually?
What is WordPress?
WordPress is a content management system (CMS) that makes it easy to build and manage a website without needing to write code from scratch. It started as a blogging platform back in 2003, but it’s grown into a flexible, open-source tool that now powers 60.9% of websites with a known CMS and 43.4% of all websites. That includes everything from personal blogs and portfolios to large news sites, and ecommerce stores.
This platform gives you a user-friendly dashboard where you can create pages, publish posts, upload media, install plugins, and customize your site’s look and feel. You can use it with free or premium themes, add extra functionality with plugins, and tweak everything from layout to SEO settings from the same admin area. The best part is, it doesn’t matter if you’re just getting started or managing multiple client sites. In every case, WordPress gives you the freedom to build the kind of site you actually want, without locking you into one specific tool or service.
How to Start Building with WordPress
Getting started with WordPress is easier than ever, especially with managed WordPress hosting that handles the technical setup for you. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to build your WordPress website from scratch:
- Choose a hosting provider. Go with a WordPress-optimized host like Pressable or Rocket.net for faster speeds, automatic updates, and expert support.
- Pick a domain name. Many hosts let you register your domain during signup.
- Install WordPress. Most hosts install it automatically with no manual setup required.
- Select a theme. You can start with a free one or browse premium options to match your brand.
- Add plugins. Install plugins for SEO, contact forms, security, and any features you need.
- Customize and launch. Use the Customizer, Site Editor, or Block Editor to tweak your design, write your pages, and hit publish.
From there, you’ll have full control over your content, design, and functionality—all without touching a line of code. for faster speeds, automatic updates, and expert support.
👉 Full guide on How to Build a website with WordPress
Top Brands Using WordPress Right Now in 2025
Sometimes it helps to see big brands in action to really convey the effectiveness of WordPress as a platform. Let’s look at some top brands currently using WordPress right now.
1. Mozilla Blog
In an effort to keep the internet open and accessible to all, Mozilla blog uses an equally open source platform to power its site: WordPress. Enjoy beautiful images, a subscription box, and of course social share buttons as Mozilla Blog aims to get their message out.
2. The Walt Disney Company
As one of the biggest and most popular brands using WordPress today, the Walt Disney Company has to be mentioned in our roundup. Taking advantage of WordPress’ blog style layouts and easy to add featured images, this company ensures you have all the breaking news that’s Disney-related right at your fingertips.
3. The Rolling Stones
Even the top bands use WordPress to reach out to fans. The Rolling Stones need no introduction, but WordPress has shown to provide a solid website for managing the waves of fans who visit the site for concert tickets and band updates.
4. The PlayStation Blog
Not every Sony website uses WordPress for a content management system, but PlayStation sure does. Offering a truly accessible and visually appealing website and blog for people to engage with, PlayStation creates the perfect magazine style layout for gamers of all kinds.
5. TED Blog
This leading educational group understands the power of WordPress and what it can help bring their large following. From written content to full blown video clips and TED talks, this website even has the ability to let people live stream from all over the world.
6. TechCrunch
If you know anything about technology you know TechCrunch. As one of the largest technology publishers in the world, TechCrunch relies on WordPress to ensure site loads remain fast for the huge amounts of traffic it receives on a daily basis.
7. The Observer
The Publication needed a platform that would let it share content in a magazine layout and allow readers to share their thoughts in a forum. And WordPress was the answer. With scrolling carousels, social sharing capability, and a built-in search function, people arriving on this site get engaged right away and have the urge to share all the great stuff they find.
8. Meta Newsroom
As the owners of one of the leading social networks in the world, it makes sense that Meta would use the most popular CMS in the world to build its blog website. With a simple style full of whitespace, an easy to use navigation system, and featured images that encourage people to click, Meta takes advantage of the power of WordPress to get news to their readers about Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads, and more.
9. BuzzMachine
BuzzMachine, a high-ranking blog created by Jeff Jarvis, is an oasis for those interested in learning more about living in the digital age. It’s also a prime example of how a small blog can scale up quickly on WordPress.
10. Laughing Squid
Laughing Squid provides a daily dose of unique art, culture and technology from around the world. Similar to BuzzMachine, this blog began its quest on the WordPress interface and has remained faithful with all of its success.
11. Variety
Variety is another popular news site that requires a powerful foundation like WordPress to handle the influx of traffic and site engagement. Whether you want to subscribe to their magazine, connect on social media, or join their newsletter, Variety has you covered.
12. Boingo
Boingo is a unique website in that it presents site visitors with a static homepage that is filled with video content. To navigate the site, simple follow the mega menu that comes with neat and seemingly insignificant hover effects that only catch your eye of you’re paying close attention.
13. Harvard Gazette
The Harvard Gazette is a one-of-a-kind website featuring a right hand side navigation menu that’s hidden too. It also comes with a simple email opt-in box, topic categories for easier reading, and a dedicated events section for those wanting to attend educationally-based happenings in the area.
14. Wolverine Woldwide
Wolverine Worldwide is an online retailer that strives to provide environmentally friendly products to people across the globe. And using WordPress as their content management system helps them get the word out about their vision and mission.
15. Usain Bolt
For a man that runs as fast as lighting, there’s no denying he demands his website to load just as fast. And since Usain Bolt has more going on than just his athletic feats, he’ll need a string and reliable platform like WordPress to help him run his online business and blog.
16. Rotary Means Business
Convenient dropdown FAQ sections, large header images, and built-in social sharing buttons help this fellowship connect those with likeminded interests. A member login, online store, and event schedule help keep people updated on everything that’s happening.
31. Etsy Journal
If you want to go beyond the Etsy shops and see what’s happening in Etsy news, this is the site to visit. Etsy Journal relies on the features of WordPress, like featured images, built-in search functionality, and mega menu options to spread the word about handmade crafts from around the world.
17. Home Depot
Find jobs, locations, and products using this intuitive website built on WordPress. Lazy loading images make this site load blazing fast, the translated content is great for reaching an international audience, and of course, the well-known orange color scheme is found throughout the site.
18. Whitehouse.gov
Another country relying on the WordPress CMS is the United States. With the official white house website needing to reach a huge audience, stay online all the time, and be able to relay a ton of written information at once, it’s no wonder that once again WordPress is being put to good use.
19. Yelp Blog
Talking about communities, businesses, products, and news is all happening on the official Yelp blog. A large header image, translation dropdown with dozens of languages, and a live Twitter feed are lend a helping hand to the Yelp company in establishing itself as a leading company connecting people to amazing businesses in their community.
20. The Next Web
The Next Web knows what it takes to cater to the tech world and all its lovers. It also knows the importance of building a website on a reliable platform. Ad space for monetization, dedicated deals sections, and a thriving blog section with lots of engagement all help The Next Web succeed.
21. University of Washington
University of Washington shows us that even those in the field of education can utilize what WordPress has to offer. Stunning icons, dedicated text blocks, social share buttons, and even a smooth parallax scrolling background make this stand out website engaging and convincing enough to sign up for school.
22. Felicia Day
As someone that knows what it’s like to be in front of and behind the camera, Felicia Day also knows what it takes to establish a strong online presence. Upcoming appearances, an online store, her best projects, and a fun and bold color scheme are all made possible thanks to WordPress.
23. Venture Beat
With endless scroll, Venture Beat offers readers everything tech news and event related. They have a prominent newsletter signup section, plenty of blog posts with featured images and clear titles so you know what you’re about to read, and a focus on whitespace like we haven’t seen in awhile.
24. Vox
Vox relies on WordPress to power its signature blend of journalism and sharp visual storytelling. With clear layouts, bold headlines, and interactive explainers, the site delivers complex news in a way that’s easy to understand and engaging to scroll through.
25. NASA
NASA’s WordPress site brings the wonders of space exploration to everyday visitors. From mission updates to livestreams and photo galleries, the platform helps NASA share the latest research and stunning visuals with the public in a clean, accessible format.
26. Harvard University
Harvard uses WordPress to manage portions of its sprawling web presence, including academic program pages, research hubs, and campus updates. The design does a good job of balancing modern web standards and the university’s rich, institutional identity.
27. Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal’s official website is built on WordPress and highlights everything from tournament results to personal updates. Fans can browse his match history, view photos, and shop official merchandise, all presented in a sleek, athlete-focused design.
28. James Bond 007
The official James Bond site uses WordPress to showcase the franchise’s history, news, and multimedia. With dramatic visuals, character spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content, it gives fans a place to explore the world of Bond in depth.
29. Ubisoft Quebec
Ubisoft Quebec leans on WordPress to share its latest projects, studio culture, and job opportunities. The site features bold imagery, smooth navigation, and a creative layout that mirrors the energy and innovation behind its game development.
30. Credit Karma
Credit Karma uses WordPress for content hubs and educational resources that help people better understand their finances. The site presents articles, product comparisons, and money tips in a format that’s both friendly and easy to digest.
31. Qualtrics
Qualtrics integrates WordPress into its digital strategy to manage content-heavy pages like blogs, events, and customer success stories. The layout supports the company’s brand while still offering a pleasant reading experience.
32. The Village Voice
This iconic publication taps into WordPress to publish cultural commentary, arts coverage, and local news. The design preserves The Village Voice’s gritty, independent tone while keeping things modern and mobile-friendly.
33. Jane Goodall Institute
The Jane Goodall Institute uses WordPress to spotlight its global conservation efforts and educational programs. The site’s heartfelt storytelling, donation tools, and vivid photography make the mission feel personal and urgent.
34. TIME
TIME leverages WordPress to help manage its extensive library of articles, photo essays, and opinion pieces. The layout keeps content easy to browse while maintaining the iconic magazine’s authoritative voice and journalistic style.
35. Margaret Cho
Margaret Cho’s site blends stand-up comedy, activism, and personal updates using WordPress. Visitors can check out tour dates, stream videos, and read her blog, all in a layout that matches her unapologetically bold personality.
36. The New York Times Company
The New York Times Company uses WordPress to manage its official corporate site. The site is well-organized, making for an ideal location to highlight investor updates, press releases, and company information.
37. Noteworthy – Spotify
Spotify’s Noteworthy blog is powered by WordPress and highlights artist interviews, music trends, and behind-the-scenes insights. With a strong editorial voice and immersive visuals, it reflects the brand’s creative pulse.
38. Brodo
Brodo’s WordPress site is warm, informative, and built for browsing. Visitors can explore recipes, read about the health benefits of bone broth, and order products directly from a site that feels as wholesome as the brand itself.
39. Adweek
Adweek uses WordPress to publish fast-moving industry coverage, trend analysis, and campaign breakdowns. With dynamic headlines and multimedia content, the site keeps marketing professionals informed and inspired.
40. Edutopia
Edutopia’s WordPress site is a go-to resource for educators looking to bring innovation into the classroom. It features evidence-based practices, real-life success stories, and videos in a layout that’s easy to navigate and geared toward learning.
41. Gannett
Gannett, the publisher behind dozens of local U.S. news outlets, uses WordPress to power its corporate communications. The site houses investor info, press releases, and leadership bios in a format that’s easy to update and scale.
42. Hypebeast
Hypebeast uses WordPress to showcase the latest in fashion, sneakers, and street culture. Its content-heavy layout is fast, image-rich, and designed for constant updates that reflect the pace of the trends it covers.
43. Creative Commons
Creative Commons uses WordPress to explain licensing tools, support its global community, and share open culture initiatives. The site is built to inform and empower people to reuse and remix content responsibly.
44. Reader’s Digest
Reader’s Digest brings its trusted brand of family-friendly stories, advice, and humor to the web with WordPress. The site is easy to browse, with categorized content and quick reads that reflect its print roots.
45. Katy Perry
Katy Perry’s official site uses WordPress to connect with fans around the world. It includes music videos, tour announcements, and merch in a colorful, energetic layout that mirrors her style.
Why Do So Many Big-Name Brands Use WordPress?
After seeing such an extensive list, you may be left wondering why WordPress is so popular. Since many of you might be weighing a few CMS options, let’s explore why these huge corporations, blogs, and artists so often turn to WordPress.
The WordPress Platform is Easy for Even Beginners to Use
It doesn’t matter if you’ve never built a website in your life, because WordPress is known to make it easy for just about anyone to use. Company executives often state that they can even turn to non-technical employees to make updates on a WordPress site.
The WordPress dashboard has navigation on the left, and each step is explained with nice details and instructions. Not to mention, you can pretty much Google any questions you have, if needed.
WordPress Looks Stunning
There’s not much to say about this besides telling you to click on the links I posted above. The primary glory of WordPress comes into play since you can customize just about anything you want. Include a slider, change around your header, create animations, implement stunning graphics and more.
The frontend of your website is what all of your customers or readers are going to see, and WordPress looks sleek and stylish once you complete your customization.
Recommended Reading: 6 Drag And Drop Page Builder Plugins: Build Any Website With Zero Effort
It’s Easy to Expand with WordPress
As you can see from the companies we talked about above, small and large companies can run equally as well on WordPress. My personal site doesn’t receive nearly as many viewers as Laughing Squid, but WordPress works perfectly for both. The only area you might have to change as you grow is your website hosting–to support more visitors.
You Don’t Have to Pay a Dime for WordPress
Isn’t it nice when you don’t have to pay for something? Since WordPress is an open-source project, you can download the files and start your website within a few minutes.
You Own Your Data with WordPress
Can you imaging how many companies would use WordPress if they didn’t have ownership of their data? Huge companies like TechCrunch generate loads of data. Some of this data is sensitive, while other data is rather valuable. WordPress is only a means to publish your content. You own everything that goes through your site.
The WordPress Community is Always Helpful
Since WordPress is an opensource project it is technically run by anyone who wants to contribute. This means that the support forums are not moderated by a group of employees sitting in a single room. The input comes from all over the world, bringing in new perspectives and allowing you to ask questions that get answered quickly.
The Setup is Quick and Painless
Click here to learn how to publish a WordPress site in just 15 minutes. Even the non-techie people can do it.
You Get to Make Your Site Better with Plugins and Themes
Themes let you turn the frontend of your site into something beautiful without any coding knowledge. . Without plugins, you need to learn how to code in order to implement a contact form or social media buttons. With WordPress, plugin developers complete all the work for you.
WordPress Works Well for Viewing on Mobile Devices
In this age of mobile use, any platform without responsiveness is already starting out by neglecting a strong percentage of readers or customers. Since WordPress is mobile-friendly by default, you’re starting out from a solid place.
That’s it for learning about some of the most popular brands using WordPress!
If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to see our guide on What is WordPress? What Can It Do & Is it Right for You?