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The Best VPNs for Craigslist: Safeguard Your Browsing

Choosing the right VPN for Craigslist can be tricky. Most VPNs promise a lot but don't deliver. Many are slow, unreliable, or untrustworthy. 

To make things easier, we've tested the most popular VPNs to see how they work with Craigslist. The seven we recommend in this quick guide ensure you can use Craigslist without interruptions, protect your privacy, and make your online experience better.

We'll give you more details about each VPN below, but if you're in a hurry, here are the seven best VPNs for Craigslist:

  1. ExpressVPN - The #1 VPN for Craigslist. Plenty of fast, reliable servers that deliver stable connections across the globe.
  2. TIP

    In our testing we checked that all ExpressVPN plans work for Netflix. The one year plan is the best value: three months free and a 30 day risk-free trial.

  3. Surfshark - A powerful, budget-friendly VPN for Craigslist. Use it on unlimited devices and enjoy open, secure, private internet.
  4. NordVPN - A massive global server network, with industry-leading security, low-cost plans, enhanced privacy, and much more.
  5. CyberGhost VPN - Beginner-friendly VPN with excellent connection speeds and simple apps for all your devices.
  6. IPVanish - Easy-to-use apps across unlimited devices, fast speeds, and airtight security.

TRY EXPRESSVPN FOR 30 DAYS FREE

ExpressVPN offers a comprehensive risk-free 30-day trial when you register on this page. Experience the top-rated VPN for privacy without any limits for an entire month—perfect for testing out the best VPN for Craigslist.

 

TEST WINNER ExpressVPN Surfshark NordVPN CyberGhost VPN IPVanish
Website ExpressVPN Surfshark NordVPN CyberGhost VPN IPVanish
Ranking for Craiglist 1 2 3 4 5
Performance 10
9
9
7
7
Reliability 9
8
8
7
7
Free trial
Total servers 3000
3200
6200
11625
2000
Payment PayPal
Visa/MasterCard
Amex
Cryptocurrency
PayPal
Visa/MasterCard
Amex
Cryptocurrency
PayPal
Visa/MasterCard
Amex
Cryptocurrency
PayPal
Visa/MasterCard
Amex
Cryptocurrency
PayPal
Visa/MasterCard
Amex
Cryptocurrency
Unblocks: Netflix
iPlayer
Disney+
Amazon Prime
Hulu
Netflix
iPlayer
Disney+
Amazon Prime
Hulu
Netflix
iPlayer
Disney+
Amazon Prime
Hulu
Netflix
iPlayer
Disney+
Amazon Prime
Hulu
Netflix
iPlayer
Disney+
Amazon Prime
Hulu
Supported platforms Windows
macOS
iOS
Android
Windows
macOS
iOS
Android
Windows
macOS
iOS
Android
Windows
macOS
iOS
Android
Windows
macOS
iOS
Android

Deep dive: The best VPNs for Craigslist

Now that we’ve got the technical stuff out of the way, we’ll focus on the best VPNs for Craigslist. We’ll explain what each one offers users, and why we consider them great choices for using Craigslist securely.

1. ExpressVPN
Editor's Choice | November 2024

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Craigslist. It offers exceptional speed and security, with servers located around the world.

  • Pricing

    • 12 months + 3 months FREE + Backblaze backup: $6.67/mth
      49% OFF
    • 6 months: $9.99/mth
    • 1 month: $12.95/mth
  • Pros

    • Exceptional capability to access Craigslist from anywhere
    • Incredibly fast connections
    • Easy-to-use apps
    • Worldwide coverage
  • Cons

    • Premium price tag (look for discounts and coupons)
  • Available on

    • Windows
    • macOS
    • iOS
    • Android
    • Linux
  • Unblocks

    • Netflix
    • iPlayer
    • Amazon Prime
    • Hulu
  • Website

ExpressVPN Demo

ExpressVPN Demo ExpressVPN Demo


We were seriously impressed by ExpressVPN’s connection speeds, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for your online activities.


We downloaded its apps to Android devices and Macbooks and connected to servers all over the world, opening up Craigslist and browsing through the marketplace. Every time, ExpressVPN delivered! In fact, the internet connection actually felt smoother with the VPN turned on, probably because ExpressVPN hid our activities from our network providers. 


ExpressVPN’s privacy policies are amongst the most strict and comprehensive in the VPN industry, ensuring your private data is never compromised. It also accepts crypto as payment (including Bitcoin and Ethereum), and has an onion version of its website – in case you don’t want Craigslist to know you’re even using a VPN. 


It’s not the cheapest VPN available – the price tag might be a bit high for some people. But when you consider how fast and reliable ExpressVPN is, it's worth the investment for the combination of security, speed, and performance.


With ExpressVPN, you can connect up to 8 devices simultaneously, making it versatile for all your Craigslist needs. Additionally, you'll benefit from a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee upon signing up.

Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that outshines many competitors. Doesn't compromise on security or performance, making it an ideal VPN for Craigslist.

  • Pricing

    • 24 Month Black Friday Special: VPN & Ad Blocker: $1.99/mth
      87% OFF
    • 24 Month Black Friday Special: One, Alert & Antivirus: $2.49/mth
      83% OFF
    • 24 months + 3 months FREE: $2.19/mth
      86% OFF
    • 12 months + 3 months FREE: $2.79/mth
      82% OFF
    • 1 month: $15.45/mth
  • Pros

    • Unlimited devices
    • Large global server presence
    • Works in the UAE and China
    • Keeps no logs whatsoever
  • Cons

    • Occasional slow server
    • Downloads can be slow
    • Monthly plans are expensive
  • Available on

    • Windows
    • macOS
    • iOS
    • Android
    • Linux
  • Unblocks

    • Netflix
    • iPlayer
    • Amazon Prime
    • Hulu
  • Website

Surfshark Demo

Surfshark Demo Surfshark Demo


Surfshark is our top budget VPN for Craigslist for many reasons. 


Firstly, it's fast, secure, and works with most websites and online services. Every member of our testing team, located in different countries, could list and shop on Craigslist.


Secondly, Surfshark comes full of advanced privacy tools missing from many more expensive competitors. You get built-in malware and spam detection, an ad blocker, dark web monitoring, an IP address rotator, and more. Its stealth mode has some of the best obfuscation software available.


These tools go way beyond getting you access to Craigslist. They keep you safe from tracking, viruses, spyware, and every other online threat and annoyance. 


Finally, Surfshark stands out with its unlimited device connections.


Plus, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all its plans, allowing you to test it first.

NordVPN is a fast and reliable VPN for Craigslist. Offers industry-leading security features to protect your data while you're browsing the marketplace.

  • Pricing

    • 24 months + 3 months FREE: $3.69/mth
      70% OFF
    • 12 months: $4.99/mth
      59% OFF
    • 1 month: $11.99/mth
  • Pros

    • Zero logs policy
    • Strong security protocols
    • Six simultaneous connections allowed
    • 5,000+ servers in 60+ countries
  • Cons

    • A few unreliable servers
    • Switching between servers can be slow
    • You can only pick servers based on location, not a specific need
  • Available on

    • Windows
    • macOS
    • iOS
    • Android
    • Linux
  • Unblocks

    • Netflix
    • iPlayer
    • Amazon Prime
    • Hulu
  • Website

Nord Demo

Nord Demo Nord Demo


NordVPN is one of the most reliable VPNs for using Craigslist securely. It boasts an extensive network of servers, ensuring smooth and buffer-free access to Craigslist.


NordVPN is compatible with various devices you might use for Craigslist, such as iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and Linux. Additionally, its SmartDNS feature allows access on devices that don't naturally support VPNs, like smart TVs and gaming consoles. Alternatively, you can set up NordVPN on your router to connect all your devices at once.


Regarding security, NordVPN offers top-notch protection for your data, location, and identity while using Craigslist. It employs robust 256-bit AES encryption, safeguards against DNS/IPv6 leaks, automatic kill-switches, and more. Notably, NordVPN’s exclusive NordLynx VPN protocol ensures all these security measures don't slow down your connection.


NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

CyberGhost stands out as both the fastest and most user-friendly VPN on the list, making it an ideal choice for Craigslist.

  • Pricing

    • 24 months + 3 months FREE: $2.11/mth
      83% OFF
    • 6 months: $6.99/mth
      42% OFF
    • 1 month: $11.99/mth
  • Pros

    • Fast, secured servers
    • Connect up to seven devices simultaneously
    • Kill-switch on all apps and keeps no logs
    • Apps are great for beginners
  • Cons

    • No apps for routers
    • Parent company has a poor reputation
    • No obfuscation
  • Available on

    • Windows
    • macOS
    • iOS
    • Android
    • Linux
  • Unblocks

    • Netflix
    • iPlayer
    • Amazon Prime
    • Hulu
  • Website

CyberGhost Demo

CyberGhost Demo CyberGhost Demo


CyberGhost stands as the current market leader in VPN speed, boasting an impressive average speed of 548 Mbps in our tests. This high speed ensures a smooth experience while using Craigslist, with no worries about slow loading.


Spanning over 11,625 servers across 100 countries (on every continent but Antarctica), CyberGhost guarantees access to Craigslist. It’s compatible with major operating systems, including Linux, and offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.


CyberGhost prioritizes security and privacy with a strict no-logs policy and incorporates features like automatic kill-switches and 265-bit AES encryption. However, note that it doesn't offer obfuscation, which may trigger detection by Craigslist and lead to blocked connections.


To top it off, a generous 45-day money-back guarantee allows you to try it out.

IPVanish is a reliable VPN for Craigslist with easy-to-use apps across unlimited devices, fast speeds, airtight security, and complete privacy.

  • Pricing

    • 24 months: $3.33/mth
      75% OFF
    • 12 months: $3.99/mth
      70% OFF
    • 1 month: $12.99/mth
  • Pros

    • Unlimited simultaneous device connections
    • Strong encryption
    • No-logs policy
    • 24/7 customer support
  • Cons

    • Doesn’t accept cryptocurrencies
    • Has difficulty unblocking some larger streaming services
    • Based in the US
  • Available on

    • Windows
    • macOS
    • iOS
    • Android
    • Linux
  • Unblocks

    • Netflix
    • Amazon Prime
    • Hulu
  • Website

IPVanish Demo

IPVanish Demo IPVanish Demo


With unlimited device connections and a host of other cool features, IPVanish is an excellent option for optimizing your Craigslist experience. 


We tested IPVanish’s servers for accessing Craigslist, and it allowed us to use Craigslist without any significant impact on internet connection and speed, ensuring a smooth experience while browsing classified ads and listings on the platform.


IPVanish offers robust protection with 256-bit AES encryption, a DHE-RSA 2,048-bit key exchange, and SHA512 authentication – all of which add multiple layers of security to your data, location, and browsing activity. It also follows a strict no-logs policy and undergoes regular independent audits. 


However, IPVanish is based in the US, which is part of the Five Eyes surveillance alliance. While we trust their policies, there are VPNs on this list based in more privacy-friendly locations.


IPVanish offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

PrivateVPN focuses on privacy and speed, particularly for P2P and torrenting. These qualities make it a great option for using Craigslist efficiently and securely.

  • Pricing

    • 36 months: $2/mth
      84% OFF
    • 3 months: $6/mth
      50% OFF
    • 1 month: $9.99/mth
      17% OFF
  • Pros

    • Good value plans
    • Beginner-friendly
    • Up to 10 simultaneous device connections
    • Easy-to-use apps
  • Cons

    • Limited support
    • Just 200 servers around the world
    • Live support isn’t available 24/7
  • Available on

    • Windows
    • macOS
    • iOS
    • Android
    • Linux
  • Unblocks

    • Netflix
    • iPlayer
    • Amazon Prime
    • Hulu
  • Website

PrivateVPN Demo

PrivateVPN Demo PrivateVPN Demo


Despite PrivateVPN’s smaller network of a little over 200 server locations worldwide, our comprehensive tests revealed impressive results. PrivateVPN excelled in providing access to every major Craigslist feature, including listings and transactions. The connections were consistently fast, ensuring seamless accessibility and browsing.


PrivateVPN’s servers are equipped with the same robust security features you get from bigger VPNs on this list: military-grade encryption, DNS and IP leak protection, kill-switches, and much more. So just because it’s smaller, doesn’t mean it's less safe to use. 


PrivateVPN also offers excellent value, allowing installation on up to 10 simultaneous devices, including smart TVs, select routers, and game consoles. This flexibility ensures comprehensive coverage for your Craigslist-related tasks.


Additionally, PrivateVPN includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to explore its offerings first.

Methodology: How we tested the best VPNs for Craigslist

We put every VPN we recommend through a series of rigorous tests to confirm they live up to their sales pitches. We check every feature and tool, read all the privacy policies and fine print, and grill their customer support with questions and concerns. 

When using a VPN for Craigslist, we had to look at several factors, including: 

Read our complete VPN review process to see the full list of criteria. It can guide you when choosing a VPN for Craigslist and anything else. 

How to set up a VPN for Craigslist

Setting up a VPN for Craigslist isn’t complicated. 

It’s similar to downloading any piece of modern software and only takes a few minutes. Here are the quick steps involved:

Setting up a VPN for Craigslist

  1. Sign up to a VPN with plenty of fast servers. We recommend ExpressVPN.
  2. Download and install the app onto your device.
  3. Open the app and follow the setup instructions. 
  4. Connect to a server. Most VPNs have a "Smart server” option to pick the fastest server close to you. But if you want to pick one in a specific country (i.e., the USA), that’s also really easy.
  5. Sign up to Craigslist. That’s it! 

To make the most of your VPN, download it to all of your devices and install an extension on your web browsers. You should set it to run every time you start your devices and save your favorite servers for quick access. 

If you still can’t access certain content after turning on the VPN, clear your browser’s cookies and cache and refresh the page. If that still doesn’t work, contact your VPN directly.

Can I use a free VPN for Craigslist?

In theory, yes, you can use a free VPN for Craigslist – but we don’t recommend it.

VPNs are sophisticated and constantly evolving software that must stay ahead of the latest online threats and advanced hacking methods. This necessitates significant investment from VPNs, which is why premium services like ExpressVPN and Surfshark require a small monthly fee.

Free VPNs, on the other hand, typically compensate for their shortfall in two ways:

1. They provide a low-quality product. 

Free VPNs are usually slow, unreliable, and unable to access websites with geo-restrictions. They’ll also probably cap your data so only a tiny amount is covered by the VPN before you’re left unprotected.

2. They practice shady, dishonest business practices. 

Unfortunately, there are a lot of bad actors in the VPN space – especially among free VPNs. If they’re not charging you a subscription fee, VPNs often profit from you by recording and selling your private data, injecting ads into your browsing, or even hosting malware on their networks.

VPNs for Craigslist FAQs

Conclusion

VPNs offer a secure and convenient way to access Craigslist, providing a layer of privacy and security for your online activities. However, it's essential to be aware that Craigslist may take measures to block VPN servers, and using a VPN may go against their terms of service.

Let's recap the benefits of our best VPNs for Craigslist: you not only gain access to Craigslist but also benefit from enhanced online security, privacy features, and tools to block ads and tracking.

You can try these VPNs risk-free through their trial periods or money-back guarantees. Once you discover the right VPN that suits your Craigslist needs, you'll enjoy seamless access to the platform no matter where you are.

From $6.67/month

The #1 VPN for Craigslist. Plenty of fast, reliable servers that deliver stable connections across the globe.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
10 out of 10
Simultaneous connections
8
Server locations
160
Free trial
No

From $1.99/month

A powerful, budget-friendly VPN for Craigslist. Use it on unlimited devices and enjoy open, secure, private internet.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.9 out of 10
Simultaneous connections
Unlimited
Server locations
140
Free trial
Yes

From $3.69/month

A massive global server network, with industry-leading security, low-cost plans, enhanced privacy, and much more.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.8 out of 10
Simultaneous connections
10
Free trial
No
Server locations
135

From $2.11/month

Beginner-friendly VPN with excellent connection speeds and simple apps for all your devices.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.7 out of 10
Simultaneous connections
7
Free trial
Yes
Server locations
126

From $3.33/month

Easy-to-use apps across unlimited devices, fast speeds, and airtight security.

ProPrivacy TrustScore:
9.6 out of 10
Simultaneous connections
Unlimited
Server locations
75
Free trial
No

Written by: Conor Walsh

Conor is a tech writer with professional paranoia. He's passionate about privacy, and when not writing about it, can be found trying to get far away from his phone and any other technology, enjoying some live music, outdoorsy stuff, or a good (physical) book.

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