How to Build a Directory Website with Directorist on WordPress

Directorist is a powerful WordPress plugin for creating scalable, feature-rich directory websites for businesses, freelancers, events, or niche listings. This guide simplifies installing, configuring, and using Directorist on AvaHost’s optimized WordPress hosting, with practical examples and tips to launch your directory site efficiently.

What Is Directorist?

Directorist is a free (with premium options) WordPress plugin that allows you to create feature-rich business directories. It supports:

  • Custom listing types (businesses, services, etc.)
  • Paid and free submissions
  • Search and filtering
  • Location-based listings
  • Ratings, reviews, and more

Perfect for turning a basic WordPress site into a scalable directory platform.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Install Directorist

  • Log in to your WordPress admin panel.
  • Go to Plugins > Add New
  • Search for Directorist.
  • Click Install Now → then Activate.

2. Configure Basic Settings

After activation, go to Directorist > Settings to configure:

  • General settings: currency, pages, user access.
  • Listings: image sizes, submission form fields.
  • SEO options: meta titles, schema support.

Take your time — this is the foundation of your directory’s structure.

3. Create Listing Categories

Go to Directory Listings > Categories and add your first categories (e.g., Restaurants, Agencies, Tech Services).

Each listing can belong to one or more categories for better organization and filtering.

4. Add a New Listing

You can add listings manually or allow front-end submissions:

  • Navigate to Directory Listings > Add New

  • Fill in title, description, contact info, and category.

  • Add images, location map, and SEO settings.

5. Enable Front-End Submissions (Optional)

Want to let users submit listings?
Go to Directorist > Settings > Listings and enable:

  • Guest submissions
  • Paid listings (if monetizing)
  • Email notifications

AvaHost’s hosting handles traffic spikes during submission-heavy periods with ease.

6. Customize the Layout

Use shortcodes or Gutenberg blocks to display listings:

[directorist_all_listing]

You can also use widgets to show search filters, recent listings, and maps.

7. Monetize Your Directory

Upgrade to Directorist Pro for features like:

  • WooCommerce integration
  • Stripe/PayPal payments
  • Featured listings
  • Subscription packages

 Directorist Hosting Requirements

Directorist works best with:

  • PHP 7.4 or newer
  • MySQL 5.7+
  • SSL certificate (included in AvaHost plans)
  • A reliable hosting provider

Use Cases

  • Local business directories
  • Freelancer or job boards
  • Real estate listing platforms
  • Event directories
  • SaaS tools or software collections

Conclusion

Directorist transforms your WordPress site into a powerful directory platform, perfect for businesses, events, or niche listings. With AvaHost’s reliable, high-performance hosting and the steps above, you can build a scalable directory with ease. The examples provided help you create and monetize listings, ensuring your site thrives without performance bottlenecks.