Using WordPress as a content management system (CMS) for static websites blends the robust content editing capabilities of WordPress with the performance benefits of static hosting. At our own site, we use HardyPress because it’s relatively inexpensive, we don’t have to think about security and our site is super fast. Here’s a clear guide to understanding this approach.
Benefits of Using WordPress for Static Websites
Site Speed
Static websites are pre-rendered, meaning content loads quickly without needing dynamic database queries. This leads to significantly enhanced performance, which improves both user experience and search engine rankings.
Security
Security is another major advantage. Without a database or PHP execution at runtime, static sites greatly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities typically associated with WordPress.
Cost-Effectiveness
They’re also more cost-effective, as hosting can be much cheaper due to the reduced server requirements.
Scalability
Scalability is easier with static sites since they can handle high traffic loads effortlessly. There’s no backend to strain under a surge in visitors, making them ideal for campaigns or viral traffic.
Ease of Global Distribution
Additionally, static files can be easily served from a content delivery network (CDN), enabling fast access from anywhere in the world with almost no extra setup.
Static websites are pre-rendered, meaning content loads quickly without needing dynamic database queries. This leads to significantly enhanced performance, which improves both user experience and search engine rankings. Security is another major advantage. Without a database or PHP execution at runtime, static sites greatly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities typically associated with WordPress. They’re also more cost-effective, as hosting can be much cheaper due to the reduced server requirements.
Scalability is easier with static sites since they can handle high traffic loads effortlessly. There’s no backend to strain under a surge in visitors, making them ideal for campaigns or viral traffic. Additionally, static files can be easily served from a content delivery network (CDN), enabling fast access from anywhere in the world with almost no extra setup.
Downsides of Using WordPress for Static Websites
Third-Party Dependencies
Many features that rely on server-side functionality—such as forms, search, and comments—require third-party tools or additional configuration. This reliance can increase complexity and create more points of dependency.
Loss of Dynamic Features
You’ll also lose out on dynamic features like user logins, custom dashboards, and real-time content updates. These are either very difficult or entirely impossible to replicate in a purely static environment.
Technical Complexity
Setting up a static site also introduces some initial complexity. Deployment workflows, build automation, and troubleshooting static generation issues may require developer support.
Content Publishing Delay
Another downside is the content publishing delay. Updates made in WordPress aren’t immediately reflected on the live site. You’ll need to trigger a static rebuild and redeploy the site, which can create friction for teams used to the immediacy of dynamic WordPress publishing.
Despite the benefits, there are some important tradeoffs. Many features that rely on server-side functionality—such as forms, search, and comments—require third-party tools or additional configuration. This reliance can increase complexity and create more points of dependency.
You’ll also lose out on dynamic features like user logins, custom dashboards, and real-time content updates. These are either very difficult or entirely impossible to replicate in a purely static environment. Setting up a static site also introduces some initial complexity. Deployment workflows, build automation, and troubleshooting static generation issues may require developer support.
Another downside is the content publishing delay. Updates made in WordPress aren’t immediately reflected on the live site. You’ll need to trigger a static rebuild and redeploy the site, which can create friction for teams used to the immediacy of dynamic WordPress publishing.
How to Implement WordPress as a Static CMS
Option 1: Plugins (WP2Static, Simply Static)
Convert your WordPress site to static HTML files. Allow easy local development and straightforward deployment to hosts like Netlify, Cloudflare Pages, or Amazon S3. Ideal for developers comfortable managing deployment workflows. Detailed guide on deploying static WordPress sites using plugins.
Option 2: Specialized Static Hosts (HardyPress)
Providers like HardyPress offer dedicated platforms to manage static WordPress sites, including built-in support for forms and search functionalities that are often challenging to implement on static websites. Automated workflows for generating and hosting static sites. Simplified management experience suitable for non-technical users. Note: Strattic, a popular platform offering managed static hosting for WordPress sites, was shut down as of January 1, 2025.
Content Workflow Tips
Maintain your WordPress site on a secure, staging subdomain. Authors and editors can continue publishing as usual. When ready, trigger a static build (manually or on a schedule) to update the live site. Set up automation via GitHub Actions or webhooks for seamless publishing.
Real-World Examples: Why People Switch to Static
BodyLabGB.com
One compelling example is BodyLabGB.com, a simple informational site that moved to a static setup using the Simply Static plugin. Their primary motivation was to address persistent security concerns and sluggish performance. The switch significantly improved load times and eliminated vulnerabilities linked to WordPress’s dynamic backend.
Emvigo Technologies Client
Another case is a client featured by Emvigo Technologies. They were struggling with performance issues and sought to reduce their exposure to potential security threats. Migrating the site to static HTML gave them a faster, more reliable platform with a much lower attack surface.
WPBeginner
WPBeginner, while still running a dynamic WordPress setup, used aggressive caching strategies to mimic the performance of static sites. Their optimization efforts brought load times in line with what you’d expect from a static site generator, demonstrating how the principles of static site performance can benefit even dynamic sites.
One compelling example is BodyLabGB.com, a simple informational site that moved to a static setup using the Simply Static plugin. Their primary motivation was to address persistent security concerns and sluggish performance. The switch significantly improved load times and eliminated vulnerabilities linked to WordPress’s dynamic backend.
Another case is a client featured by Emvigo Technologies. They were struggling with performance issues and sought to reduce their exposure to potential security threats. Migrating the site to static HTML gave them a faster, more reliable platform with a much lower attack surface.
WPBeginner, while still running a dynamic WordPress setup, used aggressive caching strategies to mimic the performance of static sites. Their optimization efforts brought load times in line with what you’d expect from a static site generator, demonstrating how the principles of static site performance can benefit even dynamic sites.
Comparison Table: Static vs. Traditional WordPress Hosting
| Feature | Static Hosting | Traditional Hosting |
|---|---|---|
| Performance (Speed) | Excellent | Moderate to Good |
| Security | High (no dynamic backend) | Moderate (requires maintenance) |
| Cost | Typically lower | Variable, potentially higher |
| Setup Complexity | Higher initially | Easier |
| Dynamic Features | Limited | Extensive |
| Third-Party Dependencies | Higher | Lower |
| Scalability | Excellent (via CDN) | Variable, depends on hosting |
| Maintenance Needs | Low | Higher (updates, patches) |
Ideal Types of Websites for Static WordPress
- Brochure sites
- Portfolios
- Landing pages and campaign microsites
- Small to medium blogs without dynamic commenting
- Documentation and informational websites
- Nonprofit and cause-driven sites focused on storytelling rather than interactivity
- Conference or event sites that are updated seasonally
Using WordPress as a static CMS provides an optimal balance between ease of content management and high-performance, secure hosting, making it ideal for specific types of web projects.
Sources and Further Reading
- Deploy a Static WordPress Site (Cloudflare Pages Documentation)
- Simply Static Plugin Documentation
- HardyPress
- Case Study: From WordPress to Static Website Using Simply Static (Amy Green)
- WordPress to Static HTML Case Study (Emvigo Technologies)
- How We Made WordPress Faster Than Static Site Generators (WPBeginner)
