If you’ve been using Squarespace but now want the flexibility, scalability, and freedom that WordPress offers, you’re not alone. Many website owners make the switch because WordPress provides better customization, SEO control, and plugin options — all without being locked into a single platform.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire Squarespace to WordPress migration process step by step. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to transfer your site smoothly while keeping your SEO intact.
Why Migrate from Squarespace to WordPress?
Before we dive in, let’s quickly look at why this move can be a game-changer for your online presence:
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Full Ownership & Control – WordPress is open-source, meaning you own your site completely.
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Unlimited Customization – Thousands of free and premium themes and plugins.
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Better SEO Options – Tools like Yoast SEO and Rank Math give you complete control over optimization.
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Scalability – Perfect for growing businesses, blogs, or online stores.
Step-by-Step Squarespace to WordPress Migration Guide
Here’s the complete website migration guide for a smooth transition:
Step 1: Choose a Reliable Hosting Provider
To use WordPress.org, you’ll need a hosting plan. Look for:
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Fast performance and uptime.
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Strong security features.
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Easy WordPress installation.
Some popular hosting providers are SiteGround, Bluehost, and Hostinger.
Step 2: Install WordPress
Once you have hosting, install WordPress via your hosting control panel (most offer 1-click installs).
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Set your Site Title and Tagline during setup.
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Choose your admin username and password securely.
Step 3: Export Content from Squarespace
Squarespace allows you to export content in XML format (with some limitations).
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Go to Settings → Advanced → Import/Export → Export.
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Choose WordPress format and download the file.
Note: Some elements (like products or certain gallery layouts) won’t export automatically and will need to be moved manually.
Step 4: Import Content into WordPress
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In WordPress, go to Tools → Import → WordPress.
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Upload the XML file you downloaded from Squarespace.
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Assign authors and check the box to import attachments where possible.
Step 5: Rebuild Missing Content
Since Squarespace’s export has limitations, you’ll likely need to manually recreate:
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Image galleries.
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Product pages (if you run an online store).
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Forms and custom design elements.
This is also a great opportunity to improve your website’s layout using Elementor or other page builders.
Step 6: Choose and Customize a WordPress Theme
Pick a theme that matches your brand. Popular beginner-friendly options include:
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Astra
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OceanWP
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GeneratePress
Customize your theme to match your old design — or take this chance to refresh your site’s look.
Step 7: Set Up Essential Plugins
To maximize your WordPress site’s potential, install:
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Yoast SEO (search engine optimization)
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WPForms (forms)
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UpdraftPlus (backups)
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Elementor (drag-and-drop design)
Step 8: Redirect Your Squarespace URLs
To maintain SEO rankings, set up 301 redirects from your old Squarespace URLs to your new WordPress URLs.
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In Squarespace: Settings → Advanced → URL Mappings.
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Redirect each important page to its new WordPress equivalent.
Step 9: Test and Launch
Before going live:
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Test all links and images.
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Check your site on mobile and desktop.
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Verify your SEO settings.
Once ready, point your domain to your new WordPress hosting and officially launch.
Final Thoughts — Make the Migration Effortless
Migrating from Squarespace to WordPress can seem technical, but following this Squarespace to WordPress migration guide will help you avoid common pitfalls. The key is preparation, accurate content transfer, and proper SEO handling.
If you’d prefer to skip the technical work, I can do it for you — ensuring your design stays intact, your SEO remains strong, and your website runs flawlessly.
👉 Get professional help here: Squarespace to WordPress Migration Service
