Craigslist is one of the earliest and most enduring online classifieds platforms. Launched in the mid-1990s by Craig Newmark, it started as a simple email list for local events and evolved into one of the most visited websites in the U.S. What’s remarkable is how little it has changed since then.
Unlike modern startups chasing rapid growth, Craigslist has stayed lean and user-focused. Its features are minimal but effective:
- Quick listings posting with email verification
- Basic registration for some categories
- A search engine with filters to handle millions of listings
- A simple events calendar (the origin of the platform!)
- Anonymous email communication for security
- Community-driven ad moderation through flagging
Even with this barebones setup, Craigslist monetizes selectively—charging fees for job postings, rentals, and some categories—yet generates more than enough to sustain itself without chasing billions in revenue.
For developers, it’s a reminder that usability and trust often matter more than flashy features. Sometimes the simplest solution is the one that lasts.
👉 I’ve written a full article exploring Craigslist’s features, monetization, and lessons for building your own classifieds platform — read it here - How to start a website like Craigslist
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