Bluehost is one of the most popular hosts for WordPress, and its installer is designed to be simple. But the steps can look different depending on which dashboard you see, and many beginners are surprised to find WordPress already installed.
This guide shows you how to install WordPress on Bluehost, how to check whether it’s already there, what to do after installing and how to fix common errors. If you are still choosing a host, see our comparison of Hostinger vs Bluehost for beginners.
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How we put this guide together: These steps are based on Bluehost’s public help pages, checked in October 2026. Bluehost changes its dashboard from time to time, so your screen may look slightly different.
Before You Start
Have these ready:
- An active Bluehost account with a hosting plan
- A domain name, either bought through Bluehost or from elsewhere
- Your login details for Bluehost
If you don’t have a domain connected yet, you can skip that step during the install and do it later.
Step 0: Check Whether WordPress Is Already Installed
Many Bluehost plans install WordPress automatically when you sign up. If you try to install it again on the same domain, you may get an error. So check first:
- Log in to your Bluehost account.
- Open My Sites (or Websites) in the left-hand menu.
- Look for your domain in the list.
- If you see a button called Log into WordPress, WordPress is already installed. Click it to reach your dashboard.
If your domain is listed and the button works, you can skip to the “After You Install” section.
Method 1: Install WordPress from the Bluehost Dashboard (Recommended)
Use this if you want to add a new WordPress site, for example on a second domain.
Step 1: Log in
Sign in to your Bluehost account.
Step 2: Open the Websites page
Go to Websites (also called My Sites in some versions).
Step 3: Click Add Site
Look for the Add Site button, usually on the right.
Step 4: Choose Install WordPress
Pick Install WordPress and click Continue.
Step 5: Enter your site details
- Site title: the name that appears on your site (you can change it later)
- Tagline: a short description (optional)
Step 6: Connect a domain
Choose the domain where you want WordPress to be installed. You can also skip this step and complete it later from your account.
Step 7: Choose optional tools
Bluehost may offer extras such as SEO tools or an ecommerce toolset. Choose only what you need. You can add plugins later, and our list of essential WordPress plugins for new sites shows which ones matter.
Step 8: Create the site
Click the button to create the site. The installer usually finishes in a couple of minutes.
Step 9: Choose how to start
You may see options such as an AI site creator or importing an existing WordPress site. If you want to build on your own, choose the manual option and continue to the WordPress dashboard.
Step 10: Log in to WordPress
When installation finishes, click Log into WordPress to open your dashboard.
Method 2: Use the Bluehost Plugin Inside WordPress
If WordPress is already installed, Bluehost adds its own menu to your WordPress dashboard. From there you can reach tools, themes and a marketplace without leaving WordPress. This is not a separate installation method, but it is where you’ll spend time after setup.
Method 3: Manual Install Through cPanel
Some Bluehost accounts include cPanel, and an app installer there can set up WordPress or other systems like Joomla or Drupal. Use this only if Method 1 doesn’t work or you want a different system.
- Log in to Bluehost.
- Open Hosting and click the cPanel button.
- Find the app installer (for example Softaculous).
- Choose WordPress and follow the prompts.
For most beginners, Method 1 is simpler and safer.
After You Install WordPress
Complete these steps on day one:
- Log in to WordPress and open the dashboard.
- Check the site title and tagline under Settings > General.
- Set permalinks to “Post name” under Settings > Permalinks.
- Delete sample content such as the “Hello World” post and sample page.
- Install a security plugin and a backup plugin.
- Set up an SEO plugin and make sure your title and description aren’t leftover text.
- Choose a theme that is light and mobile-friendly.
- Add the key pages: Home, About, Contact and Privacy Policy.
- Enable HTTPS and confirm your site loads with a secure padlock.
Common Problems and Fixes
“WordPress is already installed” error.
Your account probably installed it at signup. Go to My Sites and click Log into WordPress instead.
You can’t find the Add Site button.
You may be using an older control panel. Look in the Hosting or cPanel section, or use the app installer.
The site shows a “coming soon” page.
Many new Bluehost sites start in a “coming soon” mode. Turn it off in the Bluehost menu in WordPress when you are ready to launch.
The domain doesn’t load your site.
DNS may still be updating, or the domain may not be connected. Check the domain settings and wait for the changes to spread.
You can’t add another website.
Some plans, such as the Basic plan, allow only one site. Check your plan limits or upgrade.
You see a security warning in the browser.
Your SSL certificate may still be activating. Wait a little and check the SSL section of your account.
Still stuck?
Bluehost lists chat support around the clock and phone support during set hours. Check their help page for current times.
Tips for a Smooth Setup
- Write down your login details and store them safely.
- Use a strong, unique password for both Bluehost and WordPress.
- Don’t install many plugins at once. Start with a few essential ones.
- Back up your site before big changes.
- Take screenshots as you go, in case you need to ask support for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WordPress free on Bluehost?
WordPress itself is free software. You pay for hosting, and possibly a domain and extras. Check Bluehost’s pricing page for current costs.
Do I need to install WordPress manually?
Usually not. Bluehost often installs it for you at signup, and you can add more sites through the dashboard.
How long does the install take?
The installer usually finishes in a few minutes, though domain changes can take longer to appear.
Can I install WordPress on a domain from another registrar?
Yes. You can connect an outside domain by changing its nameservers or DNS records, either during setup or afterward.
Can I install more than one WordPress site?
It depends on your plan. Some plans allow only one website, while higher plans allow more.
What if I want to use something other than WordPress?
Bluehost has other tools, including an AI builder. See our guide on what an AI site builder is to decide.
Do I need coding skills?
No. The installer and WordPress dashboard are built for beginners.
Conclusion
To install WordPress on Bluehost, first check My Sites to see if WordPress is already there. If not, open Websites, click Add Site, choose Install WordPress and follow the prompts. After the install, set your permalinks, add essential plugins and create your key pages. Take your time, keep notes of your settings and ask Bluehost support if something doesn’t match.
