WordPress has long been the go-to platform for creating websites, powering over 40% of the web. Originally, it was created to be a blogging platform; which it excels at. Its ease of use and massive ecosystem of plugins and themes have made it a favourite for both beginners and professionals.
Exploring Joomla in 2025
However, in 2025, some WordPress users might be considering alternatives like Joomla, a robust and flexible content management system (CMS) that has been around since 2005.
While WordPress remains dominant, times are changing, evolving website needs, and user frustrations are prompting website owners to reassess their options. Joomla, with its focus on customization, advanced features, and community-driven support, offers a compelling alternative for anyone seeking more control and flexibility in their website management.
In this article, we’ll explore the potential reasons behind this trend, the advantages Joomla offers, and what challenges users might face if they decide to make the switch. If you’re curious whether Joomla could be the right platform for your next project, you will want to read on.
Why WordPress Users Are Considering Alternatives
WordPress is an incredibly popular CMS, but it’s not without its frustrations; at least since version 5. Over the years, certain pain points have driven some users to explore other platforms, including Joomla. Here are the key reasons why WordPress users might be considering a change in 2025 and beyond:
Frustration with the Gutenberg Block Editor
Since the release of WordPress 5, the Gutenberg block editor has been a divisive feature. Many users accustomed to the simplicity of the Classic Editor feel forced into adopting Gutenberg, which introduces a more complex, block-based editing experience.
While some users have adapted, others continue to struggle with the editor’s learning curve and interface, finding it less intuitive for creating and managing content. Though plugins like the Classic Editor offer a temporary solution, WordPress’s future development is firmly tied to Gutenberg, leaving users with limited alternatives. This frustration has led "some" to consider Joomla, which provides robust editing tools without forcing users into a particular framework.
Concerns About Plugin and Service Acquisitions
The world of WordPress has seen a surge in acquisitions, with larger companies buying out popular plugins, theme companies, and various services. While these acquisitions often promise innovation, users frequently experience:
- A decline in product quality or customer support.
- Sudden changes in features or functionality.
- Rising subscription or licensing fees.
For example, widely used plugins or services can undergo significant changes that alienate loyal users. This growing trend has left many WordPress site owners seeking more stable alternatives like Joomla, which relies less on third-party tools and emphasizes community-driven development.
Personal Experience: I know for myself when I ran my own theme shop, I used three plugins that used to be reasonably priced, but then after the acquisition by one company, these three plugins jumped to almost $1000/year for license renewals.
Rising Costs of WordPress Maintenance
What begins as a cost-effective solution with free software can quickly become expensive when maintaining a WordPress site.
- Premium plugins and themes are often necessary to achieve specific functionality or design goals.
- Managed WordPress hosting, while convenient, tends to come with a higher price tag compared to general hosting.
Over time, these recurring costs add up, making WordPress less appealing for individuals and small businesses. Joomla, on the other hand, includes many advanced features in its core, reducing the need for costly third-party extensions and hosting solutions.
Personal Experience: When I had my theme shop, my website required somewhere in the neighbourhood of 48 plugins to be installed. If I were to make the same website using Joomla, I would need, maybe 7 plugins (with Joomla, these are called Extensions).
Advantages of Joomla for WordPress Users
Joomla offers a range of features that would appeal to WordPress users frustrated by limitations or challenges with their current CMS. Here’s why Joomla stands out as an attractive alternative:
Built-in Flexibility Without Plugins
One of Joomla’s biggest strengths is its flexibility straight out of the box. While WordPress often requires multiple plugins to achieve functionality like SEO optimization, caching, or multi-language support, Joomla includes these features as part of its core system.
This integrated approach not only reduces dependency on third-party tools but also minimizes the risk of compatibility issues or unexpected plugin updates that can break your site. Let's not forget about providing a higher level of security! For WordPress users accustomed to constant plugin maintenance, Joomla’s built-in capabilities can be a refreshing change.
Advanced User Access Management (ACL)
For websites that require complex user roles and permissions (this website for example), Joomla provides a highly customizable Access Control List (ACL).
- You can define permissions for specific users or groups, allowing precise control over what content or features they can access.
- This is particularly useful for membership sites, educational platforms, or businesses that manage teams with varying levels of access.
While WordPress does offer role management through plugins, Joomla’s native ACL is more powerful and doesn’t require additional extensions.
Open Source Transparency and Community Support
Joomla’s commitment to being open source means users have full control over their websites without being tied to proprietary software or licensing restrictions. Its community-driven development model ensures transparency and encourages collaboration.
Additionally, Joomla’s active community of developers and enthusiasts provides extensive documentation, forums, and support networks. WordPress users who feel disillusioned by corporate-driven changes may find Joomla’s focus on user empowerment and community appealing.
Joomla as a Blogging Platform: Overkill or the Perfect Fit?
WordPress began as a blogging platform, and its simplicity has made it a natural choice for those starting a blog. However, Joomla, while traditionally seen as a more advanced content management system (CMS), is also highly capable of handling blogging needs—and with some distinct advantages.
For simple blogs, WordPress might be ideal, but Joomla offers:
- Enhanced Security: With robust built-in protections and fewer third-party dependencies, Joomla is inherently more secure than a plugin-heavy WordPress setup.
- True Content Management: Joomla’s advanced organizational tools, like categories and tagging, go beyond blogging basics, making it a great choice for content-rich sites.
- TinyMCE Editor Familiarity: Joomla utilizes the TinyMCE editor, reminiscent of WordPress’s Classic Editor, which many users still prefer over the Gutenberg block editor. The difference between the classic editor and that of Joomla's is that the latter is more enhanced!
Joomla may be seen as “overkill” for simple blogs, but for users who value scalability, it’s an investment in the future. Should your website grow beyond a blog to include memberships, directories, or e-commerce, Joomla is already equipped to handle the transition without needing a complete rebuild.
In contrast, WordPress’s evolving direction toward a page-builder-style platform like Squarespace or Wix has left some traditional users feeling alienated. Dedicated classic WordPress users seeking stability and familiarity may find Joomla’s editor and structure more aligned with their preferences.
For those who want a blogging platform with the potential to expand, Joomla is a powerful option that doesn’t rely on countless plugins, extra costs, or added security risks.
The 2025 Trends Favoring Joomla
Content management systems are constantly evolving, and 2025 is shaping up and could be a pivotal year for Joomla. Several key trends are making it a more attractive option for users seeking a robust and flexible platform.
A Focus on Customization for Niche Websites
As website owners move away from one-size-fits-all solutions, the demand for highly customizable platforms is growing. Joomla excels in this area, offering:
- Advanced customization options for both design and functionality.
- Support for creating tailored templates and extensions without relying on pre-built plugins.
This makes Joomla a strong choice for niche industries, non-profits, and organizations looking to stand out with unique online experiences.
Scalability for Growing Businesses
Scalability is becoming a critical factor for many website owners. Joomla’s ability to handle complex websites with large amounts of content and traffic makes it a reliable choice for growing businesses.
- Joomla’s modular architecture allows users to expand functionality without overhauling their entire setup.
- Features like multi-site management and advanced user permissions make it ideal for businesses with expanding needs.
Increased Security and Compliance with Global Standards
Security remains a top concern for website owners, and Joomla is keeping pace with evolving global standards.
- Joomla’s development team prioritizes security, regularly releasing updates and patches to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Built-in features like two-factor authentication and extensive access controls help users secure their sites more effectively.
For businesses operating in regulated industries, Joomla’s strong security features and compliance-friendly design are significant advantages. Whereas, WordPress was the most hacked CMS in 2022, according to Sucuri’s annual hacked website report. Over 95.6% of infections detected by Sucuri were on websites running WordPress. Joomla was 1.90%. Source: Sucuri
Key Challenges When Switching to Joomla
While Joomla offers numerous advantages, transitioning from WordPress to Joomla is not without its challenges. Understanding these potential hurdles can help WordPress users make informed decisions and prepare for a smoother migration.
Learning Curve for Joomla Interface
One of the most common challenges for new Joomla users is adjusting to its interface and workflow; which can be scary when you first set eyes on the admin area. You will want to remember that Joomla is a full-on content management system, whereas WordPress is a blogging platform.
- Joomla’s interface is designed with flexibility, but it can feel more complex compared to WordPress’s streamlined dashboard.
- Features like modules, components, and menus require a shift in mindset for users accustomed to WordPress’s simpler structure.
However, with dedicated tutorials and guides, new users can quickly learn Joomla’s powerful capabilities.
Migration Challenges and Tools
Migrating a website from WordPress to Joomla involves several steps and considerations, including:
- Exporting and importing content such as posts, pages, images, and user data.
- Rebuilding site layouts and templates in Joomla.
- Ensuring SEO and URL structures remain intact to avoid losing search engine rankings.
While third-party tools and services exist to assist with migration, the process may still require technical expertise or professional support.
IMPORTANT: There is always going to be some risk when converting a website from one CMS to another.
Adjusting to Joomla’s Extensions and Templates
Unlike WordPress’s plugin-driven ecosystem, Joomla extends functionality using a combination of components, modules, and plugins. When you hear the term "Extensions," this refers to the combination I just mentioned.
- This modular approach provides more granular control but may feel unfamiliar to new users.
- Joomla templates work differently than WordPress themes, often requiring users to adapt to a different customization workflow.
With time and experience, many users appreciate Joomla's flexibility, but the initial adjustment period can be challenging. If I remember correctly, when I first got involved in Joomla back in 2008, it took me about a month.
Is Joomla Right for You in 2025?
Switching to a new CMS is a big decision, and it’s essential to evaluate whether Joomla aligns with your goals and needs. While Joomla offers many advantages, it’s not the perfect fit for everyone. Here’s how to determine if Joomla is the right choice for you.
Questions to Ask Before Switching
Before making the move, consider these key questions:
- What are your website goals?
- Are you building a highly customized website that needs flexibility, or do you prefer a simpler setup?
- Do you need advanced user management?
- If your site requires detailed access control, Joomla’s built-in features might be ideal.
- Are you ready to invest time in learning Joomla?
- While Joomla’s learning curve is steeper than WordPress, its flexibility and control can pay off in the long run.
These questions can help you assess whether Joomla aligns with your current and future website needs.
Who Benefits Most from Joomla?
Joomla is particularly well-suited for certain types of users and projects:
- Small Businesses: Joomla provides the scalability and customization options needed to grow without significant additional costs.
- Non-Profits and Organizations: With its advanced user permissions and multi-language support, Joomla is an excellent choice for managing diverse audiences.
- Hobbyists and Developers: For those who enjoy tinkering with their site’s design and functionality, Joomla offers the freedom to build truly unique websites.
- Custom Projects: Whether it’s a membership site, online directory, or niche application, Joomla’s robust architecture supports tailored solutions.
When Joomla Might Not Be the Best Fit
While Joomla has its strengths, it might not suit everyone.
- If you prioritize simplicity and speed of setup over customization, WordPress’s beginner-friendly interface might be more appropriate.
- Joomla’s flexibility can be overwhelming for users who prefer a plug-and-play approach.
- Smaller, personal websites with minimal functionality may not require Joomla’s advanced features.
By carefully considering your needs, you can make an informed decision about whether Joomla is the right CMS for your project in 2025.
Is Joomla the Right Choice for WordPress Users in 2025?
In 2025, WordPress will remain a dominant force in the CMS world, but it’s clear that some users are beginning to explore alternatives like Joomla. Frustrations with the Gutenberg block editor, plugin acquisitions, rising costs, and WordPress’s shift toward a page-builder concept have driven many to reconsider their platform of choice.
Joomla offers a robust and versatile solution, with built-in features that reduce reliance on third-party tools, advanced customization options, and strong security measures. Its familiar TinyMCE editor and powerful content management capabilities make it an excellent option not just for blogs but for scalable, complex websites.
While switching to Joomla comes with challenges, such as a learning curve and migration efforts, these can be overcome with proper planning and resources. For those seeking a platform with stability, flexibility, and community-driven support, Joomla is a worthy contender.
If you’re contemplating whether Joomla might be the right fit for your needs, consider starting small. Or, do what I did back when I discovered it; I played with it to get a feel for how it works.
NOTE: I do offer Joomla coaching one-on-one as well, and comprehensive tutorials, should you decide to jump right in.
Don't forget to check out my cornerstone article about WordPress vs Joomla for more information.