How to Start a Blog in 2025

Thinking about starting a blog in 2025?
You absolutely can — millions of people already did it, starting with zero experience.

Maybe you’re worried it’s too difficult, or that no one will read what you write.
I felt the same way when I started my own blog years ago… and today, it’s my main source of passive income.

So no — you’re definitely not alone.

In this beginner-friendly guide, I’ll walk you through how to create the most popular type of blog: a self-hosted WordPress blog — step-by-step and without tech skills.

Let’s begin!


Why Blogging Still Works

Blogging is one of the easiest and most affordable online businesses you can start.
But beginners always ask:

  • What do I write about?
  • How do I actually make money?
  • Do I need to know coding?

Good news: you don’t need to be a professional writer or a tech expert.
You just need a topic you enjoy and a willingness to share your ideas.

A blog is simply a website where you publish articles on a specific topic.
People come to learn, get inspired, or be entertained — and if your content helps them, they’ll keep coming back.


Can You Make Money Blogging?

Yes.
If your blog solves real problems for readers, you can earn money through:

  • Affiliate marketing
  • Sponsored content
  • Selling ebooks or digital products
  • Display ads (like Mediavine)
  • Selling physical products

But remember: content first, money later.


How Much Does It Cost?

Starting a profitable blog costs between $15–$75 in the first month, depending on the tools you choose.

If you want a serious blog, WordPress + good hosting is the best route.


Step 1: Choose Your Blog Topic (Niche)

Pick a topic you enjoy and that others search for — cooking, travel, tech, fashion, finance, lifestyle, fitness, etc.

Ask yourself:

  1. Do I like talking about this?
  2. Are people interested in this topic?

Don’t overthink it. Choose a niche and start writing.


Step 2: Choose a Blogging Platform

There are many platforms, but WordPress.org is the #1 choice.
It’s free, flexible, and powers over 40% of all websites.

This guide focuses on WordPress because you get full control and unlimited growth potential.


Step 3: Choose a Web Host

WordPress is the “kitchen,” but you still need a “dining room” — that’s your hosting.

Bluehost is beginner-friendly and offers:

  • Free domain for the first year
  • Free SSL
  • One-click WordPress installation
  • 24/7 support
  • Fast servers

Pick the basic plan and proceed to register your domain name.


Step 4: Set Up WordPress

Once Bluehost installs WordPress automatically, you’ll receive your login details by email.

You’ll use:

  • Bluehost login → for hosting settings
  • WordPress login → to create posts and manage your site

Inside WordPress, make sure to:

  • Set your site title and tagline
  • Ensure HTTPS is enabled
  • Change the permalink structure to Post name
  • Install essential plugins (Yoast SEO, Wordfence, Contact Form 7)

Step 5: Customize Your Blog

Pick a theme that matches your style.
Popular choices:

  • Kadence
  • Astra

You can customize your header, footer, colors, fonts, menus, and layout — all without coding.


Step 6: Create Your First Posts and Pages

Start writing!
Don’t aim for perfection — just be helpful.

Create essential pages:

  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Disclaimer

You can generate legal pages using tools like CookieYes.


Step 7: Launch Your Blog

Disable the Bluehost “Coming Soon” page, save changes, and your blog will be live.

Congratulations — you now have your own self-hosted WordPress blog!


What to Do Next

  • Write helpful content consistently
  • Start using Pinterest to get free traffic
  • Set up Google Analytics and Search Console
  • Learn basic SEO
  • Keep improving your writing

Once your traffic grows, you can monetize your blog with platforms like Mediavine (Grow).

Happy blogging!