Backpage was once one of the most popular classified sites for dating, personals, and casual encounters before it was shut down in 2018. Since then, users seeking safe and legal alternatives have turned to other platforms that offer personal, dating, or companion services in a more structured and moderated manner. Today, a string of mainstream dating apps, classifieds, niche directories, and even AI companionship sites provide options that fill the gap without the risks that doomed Backpage.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- 15 of the best Backpage alternatives in 2025
- A quick comparison table to help you choose
- Key features, pros, cons, and safety ratings
- Tips for staying safe and legal while connecting online
List of 15 best Backpage alternatives in 2025
- ClassifiedAds
- Infatuatedai
- AdultFriendFinder
- Ashley Madison
- Meet-n-Hook
- OneNightFriend
- Oodle marketplace
- Rubsratings.com
- Erotic monkey
- Locanto
- Plenty of fish
- Bedpage
- Tryst
- HER
- Grindr
Quick comparison table
| Platform | Type | Safety Rating | Best For | Cost Structure |
| ClassifiedAds.com | General classifieds | 3.5 / 5 | Free postings & local personals | Mostly free |
| Infatuated.ai | AI companionship | 4 / 5 | Private chat without risk | Subscription |
| AdultFriendFinder | Adult dating network | 2.5 / 5 | Casual hookups, groups, live cams | Free + premium |
| Ashley Madison | Discreet dating | 3 / 5 | Affairs, anonymous connections | Paid credits |
| Meet-n-Hook | Casual dating | 3 / 5 | Quick, no-strings encounters | Free + premium |
| OneNightFriend | Casual dating | 2.5 / 5 | Fast hookups & short-term flings | Free + premium |
| Oodle Marketplace | Classifieds | 3.5 / 5 | Local personals and services | Free / paid boosts |
| RubRatings.com | Niche directory | 2.5 / 5 | Body rubs & massage services | Free browse, paid ads |
| Erotic Monkey | Escort review directory | 2 / 5 | Listings + reviews | Free browse, paid posts |
| Locanto | Classifieds | 3.5 / 5 | Jobs, housing, personals | Free / paid boosts |
| Plenty of Fish | Mainstream dating | 4 / 5 | Casual to serious dating | Free + premium |
| Bedpage | Classifieds | 2.5 / 5 | Craigslist-style personals | Free / paid boosts |
| Tryst | Companionship directory | 2.5 / 5 | Escort-style ads, niche services | Paid ads |
| HER | LGBTQ+ dating | 4 / 5 | Women, non-binary, queer connections | Free + premium |
| Grindr | LGBTQ+ dating | 3 / 5 | Gay/bi/trans men, local hookups | Free + premium |
How we chose these alternatives
We selected these 15 sites by:
- Reviewing official platform features and policies (not third-party claims)
- Prioritizing safety, moderation, and legal compliance
- Covering multiple categories: classifieds, dating, niche directories, and AI
- Checking community size, usability, and reputation
In-depth reviews of the top Backpage alternatives in 2025
1) ClassifiedAds.com
ClassifiedAds.com is a comprehensive classifieds network that covers a wide range of categories, including cars, jobs, services, and personals. It’s similar in concept to early Craigslist-style classifieds, but modernized with clearer categories and site moderation. If you want a non-adult-first classifieds site that still supports personals and local connections, ClassifiedAds is a direct, mostly free place to post items or find local listings.
Key features
- Free posting in many categories, including personals.
- Searchable city-level listings and email contact options.
Pros
- Straightforward classifieds, free for basic posts.
Cons
- Personals can still attract spam — be cautious of scams.
Safety rating: 3.5/5 — General classifieds protections; check listings carefully.
Cost: Mostly free; optional paid highlights.
2) Infatuated (Infatuated.ai)
If you want companionship without any legal risk or in-person meetups, AI-based services such as Infatuated.ai let you create an interactive virtual companion. This avoids all the legal gray areas of person-to-person adult classifieds.
Key features
- AI-driven chat companions and customizable personas.
- No in-person meetups, no classifieds.
Pros
- Zero legal risk from in-person encounters.
- Private, immediate companionship possible.
Cons
- Not a substitute for human connection if that’s your goal.
Safety rating: 4/5 (no user-to-user risk because it’s AI).
Cost: Paid subscription models.
3) AdultFriendFinder
AdultFriendFinder focuses on profiles, chat rooms, live cams, and local searching. It’s a classified board for a social adult network. The platform is large and broad in scope, but that scale brings both variety and the need for caution: fake accounts and scams exist, and premium features are designed to transition you from casual browsing to paid interactions.
Key features
- Profile search by location and interest.
- Chat rooms, messaging, and live webcam sessions.
- Help/FAQ and moderation pages.
Pros
- A large user base and numerous features for adults.
- Multiple ways to interact (chat, cams, groups).
Cons
- Mixed moderation quality in some regions.
- Scammers and fake profiles reported by users.
Safety rating: 2.5 / 5 — take standard precautions.
Cost: Free basic; paid memberships and premium messaging options are available.
4) Ashley Madison
Ashley Madison is one of the most well-known dating platforms for individuals seeking discreet relationships that transcend traditional boundaries. Originally controversial for its focus on affairs, it has since rebranded toward more general “open-minded dating.” Its large membership and emphasis on anonymity attract users who want discretion and security when exploring connections outside the mainstream dating apps.
Key features
- Profile creation with anonymity tools
- Priority matching and message filters
- Travel feature to connect while abroad
- Encrypted chat and photo exchange
Pros
- Niche community for discreet dating
- Large global membership base
- Offers tools to hide profiles and manage privacy
Cons
- The history of data breaches in 2015 may concern some users
- Not a fit for people looking for straightforward, traditional dating
Safety rating: 3/5 — strong privacy options, but sensitive nature requires careful use
Cost: Free basic; paid credits system for messaging and premium features
5) Meet-n-Hook
Meet-n-Hook positions itself as a casual dating site for singles seeking quick connections rather than long-term commitments. Its focus is on short-term arrangements, with user-friendly features designed for fast signups and chatting. It’s not a classifieds site, but rather a dating alternative with an emphasis on casual, no-strings encounters.
Key features
- Location-based profile discovery
- Direct chat and private messaging
- Basic photo uploads and browsing
- Designed for mobile as well as desktop
Pros
- Simple, quick-to-use interface
- Geared explicitly toward casual encounters
- Active membership in urban areas
Cons
- Limited depth in profiles
- Smaller user base compared to bigger apps
Safety rating: 3/5 — safe if used with standard precautions, but moderation is less robust than mainstream apps
Cost: Free signup; premium upgrades for messaging and viewing complete profiles
6) OneNightFriend
OneNightFriend is a casual dating platform that prioritizes fast connections, especially for short-term encounters. Its system pairs local profiles quickly, and its name reflects its focus: it’s built for immediate, casual interactions. While it doesn’t aim to replicate Backpage’s classifieds structure, it is often used by people seeking the same “casual and quick” experience.
Key features
- Quick signup with email verification
- Location-based matching
- Chatrooms and private message options
- Photo galleries and “wink” features for initiating contact
Pros
- Tailored for fast and casual dating
- Easy navigation and matchmaking system
- Responsive design for mobile use
Cons
- Smaller reach than apps like Tinder or AFF
- Some fake accounts were reported in the free sections
Safety rating: 2.5 / 5 — basic moderation; verify users carefully
Cost: Free signup; premium needed for messaging and full access
7) Oodle Marketplace
Oodle is a classifieds network that spans cars, rentals, pets, and personal ads. It functions more like Craigslist than Backpage, with a heavy focus on local communities. Although its personals section is smaller than its other categories, it remains an option for those who want general classifieds and occasional personals.
Key features
- City-level classifieds categories
- Listings for cars, housing, services, and personals
- Email and contact forms within listings
- Free posting options
Pros
- Broad classifieds scope, not adult-only
- Easy to post and browse local ads
- Safer reputation than some niche adult platforms
Cons
- Smaller personal activity compared to mainstream dating apps
- Spam is occasionally reported in listings
Safety rating: 3.5 / 5 — standard classifieds cautions apply
Cost: Free postings; optional premium ad boosts
8) RubRatings.com
RubRatings is a niche directory-style site that focuses specifically on massage services and related personal ads. It’s structured as a listings board with location-based browsing. Users can filter by city, making it more like a directory than a dating app.
Key features
- Location-based massage and bodywork listings
- Ad categories with photos and details
- Contact via phone or email links
- Simple browsing with filters
Pros
- Focused niche category for massage services
- Clear directory-style layout
- Easy to search by location
Cons
- Ads can vary widely in quality and legitimacy
- Little built-in moderation compared to larger apps
Safety rating: 2.5 / 5 — directory style requires caution and personal vetting
Cost: Free browsing; paid ad placement for service providers
9) Erotic Monkey
Erotic Monkey is another directory-style classifieds platform that focuses on reviews of adult companionship services. Unlike standard dating apps, it uses a review system where users can rate experiences. This makes it different from Backpage, though it still operates in a sensitive niche.
Key features
- Directory listings with ratings
- User reviews and detailed profiles
- Filters by location, service type, and category
- Verified provider options
Pros
- The review system provides context on listings
- Large user-submitted directory
- City-level browsing
Cons
- Sensitive adult niche; not mainstream
- The reliability of reviews varies
Safety rating: 2/5 — Proceed with caution; reviews may not always be authentic
Cost: Free browsing; paid features for posting or upgrades
10) Locanto
Locanto is an international classifieds site with categories spanning jobs, housing, services, and personals. Unlike Backpage, it has stricter moderation and community rules. Its personals section covers casual dating and companionship, but keeps everything under a broader classifieds umbrella.
Key features
- Free local listings across many categories
- Location-based search with map integration
- Personals section for dating and connections
- Optional ad promotions
Pros
- International reach with localized communities
- Broader scope than personals
- Safer reputation than unmoderated platforms
Cons
- Personals are not as active as dedicated dating apps
- Ads can sometimes expire quickly
Safety rating: 3.5 / 5 — relatively safe with standard classifieds precautions
Cost: Free posting; paid boosts available
11) Plenty of Fish (POF)
Plenty of Fish is one of the largest mainstream dating apps, offering free and paid services. Similar to Backpage, it’s a classifieds platform with a dating focus that supports casual dating, friendships, or relationships. Its size means a wide variety of users, but also mixed experiences.
Key features
- Extensive profile matching system
- Compatibility questionnaires
- Free messaging and browsing
- Premium upgrades for better visibility
Pros
- Huge user base worldwide
- Free messaging in the basic plan
- Suitable for both casual and serious dating
Cons
- Reports of fake accounts and scammers
- Interface feels older compared to newer apps
Safety rating: 4/5 — mainstream app with decent moderation and tools
Cost: Free core features; premium membership available
12) Bedpage
Bedpage is one of the closest conceptual successors to Backpage, offering general classifieds, including personals. Its layout is highly similar to early Craigslist and Backpage, making it familiar to users. However, because it fills the same niche, users must apply extra caution when browsing personals.
Key features
- Classifieds by city and category
- Jobs, rentals, services, and personals
- Basic, no-frills interface
- Free posting options
Pros
- Very similar to the old Backpage format
- Free or low-cost listings
- Covers multiple categories beyond personals
Cons
- Reports of spam and scams
- Minimal safety or moderation tools
Safety rating: 2.5 / 5 — high caution recommended, especially in personals
Cost: Free listings; optional upgrades
13) Tryst
Tryst is a modern, directory-style platform specifically designed for companionship ads. It emphasizes user experience, mobile-friendly design, and community tools. Unlike Backpage, it focuses entirely on a single niche rather than offering general classifieds.
Key features
- Location-based browsing
- Profile pages with detailed listings
- Mobile-optimized design
- Community support resources
Pros
- Cleaner and more modern interface than older directories
- Niche focus makes it easy to navigate
- Mobile-friendly experience
Cons
- Narrower audience compared to mainstream dating apps
- Requires extra personal caution due to a sensitive niche
Safety rating: 2.5 / 5 — niche site, use careful discretion
Cost: Free browsing; paid ad placement options
14) HER
If you’re a queer woman, HER is one of the best community-first apps to try. It’s built as a social and dating app for lesbian, bisexual, trans, and non-binary people, emphasizing community events, group spaces, and safety features. This is a mainstream dating/community app designed for connection, not classifieds.
Key features
- Community events, Pride Pins (filters), and profile features.
Pros
- Strong moderation, community focus, and in-app safety resources.
Cons
- Not for classifieds or selling items.
Safety rating: 4/5 — community and moderation emphasize safety.
Cost: Free core features are also optional premium upgrades.
15) Grindr
Grindr is the largest geosocial networking platform for gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer men. It’s location-based, fast, and designed for immediate local connections. In some places, people used Grindr for quick meetups; however, it is not a classifieds board, and its UX is focused on profiles and location discovery. Grindr has had privacy and safety controversies in the past, so use safety settings and blocks, and avoid sharing personally identifying information too soon.
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Key features
- Location-based discovery, chat, and profile features.
Pros
- Massive user base and immediate local search.
Cons
- Historical privacy concerns; exercise caution.
Safety rating: 3/5 — mainstream but privacy-sensitive; use built-in safety tools.
Cost: Free + Grindr XTRA/Unlimited subscription tiers.
Tips to stay legal and safe while using Backpage alternatives
- Know your local laws – Personal ads and paid companionship are regulated differently across states and countries. If a platform or listing appears illegal in your area, avoid it.
- Choose platforms with verification and moderation – Sites that use ID checks, profile verification, or active takedown policies are safer and reduce exposure to scams.
- Be cautious when reviewing or mapping sites – Directories, such as RubMaps-style services, often carry legal risks. Treat them as research tools only, not as venues for conducting transactions.
- Verify before you meet – Ask for a quick video call, a verified social media handle, or meet first in a public setting to confirm identity.
- Use traceable payments – Avoid cash or untraceable transfers. Stick to official payment rails that leave a record in case of disputes.
- Keep records – Save screenshots of chats, receipts, and any agreements. They may help if you need to prove fraud or misuse later.
Final takeaways
- Backpage is gone, but safer, legal alternatives now include dating apps, classifieds, and even AI companions.
- Match the platform to your goals—casual fun with AdultFriendFinder or OneNightFriend, discreet dating on Ashley Madison, community spaces like HER and Grindr, or privacy-first AI options like Infatuated.
- Safety comes first — always use platforms that verify, moderate, and have clear community guidelines.
- If avoiding all legal risk is a priority, AI companionship offers a secure and private alternative.
Wrapping up
Backpage may be gone, but its role in casual connections and classifieds hasn’t disappeared; it’s shifted into safer, more specialized platforms.
Today’s best alternatives include mainstream dating sites like POF, Grindr, and HER, discreet options like Ashley Madison, adult-first communities like AdultFriendFinder, classifieds such as ClassifiedAds, Locanto, and Bedpage, and even AI-driven companions like Infatuated.ai. Each platform offers unique perspectives, from privacy to speed to niche focus, making it easier to find what you’re looking for without worrying about the website ceasing to exist abruptly.
Use this list as your starting point, weigh the features that matter most to you, and take your next step securely.
