Best VPN for Craigslist in 2024: Bypass Craigslist IP Block Bans
Craigslist bans users for various reasons. Regardless of the reason for a ban, a VPN can help unblock Craigslist. However, not all VPNs can do so -- in this guide, we help you find the best VPN for Craigslist.
Written by Arjun Ruparelia (Writer)
Reviewed by Sandra Pattison (Editor)
Facts checked by Alison Spedale (Fact-checking editor)
Last Updated: 2024-04-12T09:30:01+00:00
All our content is written fully by humans; we do not publish AI writing. Learn more here.
Key Takeaways: What Is the Best VPN for Craigslist?
- ExpressVPN — Best VPN for Craigslist overall
- NordVPN — Best Craigslist VPN with excellent security features
- Surfshark — Best VPN for using Craigslist on multiple devices
- CyberGhost — Craigslist VPN with automation features & huge server network
- Proton VPN — Best free VPN for Craigslist
Facts & Expert Analysis:
- Craigslist bans: Craigslist bans are implemented to help deter spammers and those who aim to abuse the platform.
- Innocent users: Even simple activities such as posting too frequently can result in genuine sellers being banned.
- Bypass the bans: A VPN can help bypass these bans by changing your IP address.
Craigslist sellers often face unexpected bans. Frequently posting or creating listings in multiple cities can sometimes lead to an account ban. Craigslist might even ban you for intolerable behavior or inappropriate language. If you’ve been banned or want to avoid a ban, consider using a Craiglist VPN. In this guide, we’ll help you find the best VPN for Craigslist.
The top VPNs for Craigslist not only unblock Craigslist, but also secure your connection and help you acquire another location’s IP address. Securing your connection helps you stay safe when accessing Craigslist via public WiFi by protecting you from man-in-the-middle attacks and other types of cyberattacks.
We recommend taking a look at our best VPNs guide if you’re looking for the best VPNs overall. Below, we discuss the top five VPNs for Craigslist and their feature set so you can pick the one that best fits your needs. If you don’t want to spend time reading the full guide, here’s the scoop: We recommend ExpressVPN.
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04/12/2024 Facts checked
We updated the list of VPNs and the information about their feature sets, and included an easier-to-read format.
Cloudwards Editor’s Choice: ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN offers excellent unblocking capability and server distribution across the U.S. and globally. Switching IP addresses is as quick as clicking a button, so you can change to a new IP if Craiglist bans your current one. Though there are other VPNs on the market, ExpressVPN beats all of them with its superior performance and top-notch security — try ExpressVPN today.
How to Choose the Best Craigslist VPN
It’s important to consider a VPN’s security and privacy, feature set, speed and server network. Here’s why:
- Security and privacy: VPNs with good security help protect your data when you’re online. This is especially important if you use Craigslist while connected to public WiFi.
- Feature set: Top VPNs offer extensive feature sets, including obfuscation and split tunneling. Obfuscation conceals VPN usage, which is important when you’re using it to access websites you’ve been banned from or don’t have access to.
- Speed: VPNs generally slow down your connection, but they still need to be fast enough to load web pages and videos without significant lag.
- Server network: A large server network gives you access to IP addresses in more locations, which is helpful for unblocking Craigslist.
The 5 Best Craigslist VPNs
| VPN: | Price | Average Speed* | Devices | No-Logs Policy | Security |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | $6.66 per month (15-months plan) | 29 Mbps | LINUX | AES-256, ChaCha20 | |
 | $3.99 per month (two-year plan + three months) | 31 Mbps | LINUX | AES-256, ChaCha20 | |
 | $2.29 per month (two-year plan + two months) | 30 Mbps | LINUX | AES-256, ChaCha20 | |
 | $2.37 per month (two-year plan) | 26 Mbps | LINUX | AES-256, ChaCha20 | |
 | $4.99 per month (two-year plan) | 28 Mbps | LINUX | AES-256, ChaCha20 |
1. ExpressVPN — Best Overall VPN for Craigslist
Very Fast
Very Fast
Very Fast
ExpressVPN is the best VPN to use for Craiglist because it offers top-notch security and lightning-fast connection speeds. The VPN uses AES-256 encryption along with VPN protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2 and Lightway (ExpressVPN’s proprietary protocol) to secure your connection when accessing Craigslist, though protocol availability varies by device.
If Craiglist notices you’re using a VPN, it will permanently block the VPN IP address. However, all of ExpressVPN’s servers use obfuscation technology, which goes a long way in preventing a ban. Obfuscated servers are more effective at hiding the fact that you’re using a VPN. ExpressVPN also offers other essentials like a kill switch and split tunneling.
ExpressVPN Hands-On Testing
Using ExpressVPN is fairly straightforward. The interface has a minimalist home screen with a one-click connect button and the option to select a server. All other options are housed in the settings section, which opens as a separate window. Switching between servers is almost instantaneous. The app also recommends the fastest location to optimize performance.
Notes From the Lab: ExpressVPN Speed Test Results
If you’re looking for a fast VPN, ExpressVPN is one of the best options. It unblocks all the popular streaming platforms and offers fast connection speeds. You can further optimize speed by switching to the Lightway protocol or using MediaStreamer — ExpressVPN’s smart DNS service — when streaming content.
Notes From the Lab: ExpressVPN Security Analysis
Our tests didn’t show any DNS leaks. ExpressVPN also offers additional security features like a tracker and a malware blocker, called “threat manager,” that helps block access to malicious websites.
| Protocol | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | LINUX |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
| Lightway | AES-256, ChaCha20 | LINUX |
ExpressVPN Pricing & Value
ExpressVPN is a premium VPN, so it’s also more expensive than other VPNs on this list. If you don’t mind spending a little extra, the best deal (the annual plan) is available for $6.66 per month. Shorter-term plans include the six-month plan for $9.99 per month and the monthly plan for $12.95.
You can try the VPN yourself risk free with the 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not completely satisfied, you can claim a full refund, no questions asked. If you’re still not convinced, read our extensive ExpressVPN review to learn more about the service.
- Unlimited GB
- 8
- Yes
2. NordVPN — Best Craigslist VPN With Excellent Security Features
Very Fast
Very Fast
Very Fast
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly service that offers superior performance and unblocks Craigslist, NordVPN is your best bet. Thanks to its extensive network of servers, which includes servers in 15 U.S. cities, you can always switch your IP address if you get banned — just connect to one of the U.S. servers to unblock Craigslist and create a listing.
NordVPN Hands-On Testing
NordVPN’s home screen has a map in the background and a VPN server list docked to its left. You can select a server from the list, or if you want a server near a specific location, you can locate one on the map. All server types — P2P, double VPN, Onion Over VPN, dedicated IP and obfuscated servers — are available right on the home screen, making it easy to switch servers.
locations and the option to select a server type.
Notes From the Lab: NordVPN Speed Test Results
NordVPN is the fastest VPN around, according to our VPN speed tests. If speed is your priority, you won’t find anything better than NordVPN. Moreover, NordVPN doesn’t sacrifice security in the name of speed — it’s one of the most secure VPNs out there.
Notes From the Lab: NordVPN Security Analysis
We’ve never seen NordVPN fail any of our leak tests, and this time was no exception. In terms of protocols, NordVPN offers the standard OpenVPN and IKEv2, but also its proprietary NordLynx protocol.
| Protocol | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | LINUX |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
| NordLynx | ChaCha20 | LINUX |
NordVPN Pricing & Value
NordVPN is priced attractively considering its feature set and performance. The best deal (the two-year plan) costs $3.99 per month. Shorter-term plans include annual and monthly plans for $5.74 and $12.99 per month, respectively. The VPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk free, or learn more about the service in our NordVPN review.
- *The prices are charged in the first billing cycle only. Renewal prices vary.
- Unlimited GB
- 6
- Yes
- *The prices are charged in the first billing cycle only. Renewal prices vary.
- Unlimited GB
- 6
- Yes
- *The prices are charged in the first billing cycle only. Renewal prices vary.
- Unlimited GB
- 6
- Yes
3. Surfshark — Best VPN for Using Craigslist on Multiple Devices
Surfshark is an excellent VPN if Craigslist has banned your home IP address and you need to access the site from multiple devices connected to your home or office router. For example, if you often cross-post job ads on your Craigslist account but your office IP address is banned, you can use Surfshark to access Craigslist on as many devices as you need.
The VPN provider effectively unblocks all the popular streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. It also secures your connection with VPN encryption protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2 and WireGuard combined with AES-256 or ChaCha20. The app is loaded with features like CleanWeb (ad and malware blocker) and “camouflage mode” (obfuscation).
Surfshark Hands-On Testing
The VPN provider’s app interface is designed for efficiency, but it does take a few extra seconds for the app to launch. It lists server types at the top of the home screen and has a recommended server section, a list of recently used servers and a full server list. The quick-connect button appears on the right, and settings and other sections are docked to the left.
access most server-related options from the home screen.
Notes From the Lab: Surfshark Speed Test Results
Our speed tests showed that Surfshark is fast, trailing closely behind NordVPN and ExpressVPN. The latency does remain high even when you connect to nearby servers, but that shouldn’t be a problem if you’re not a gamer.
Notes From the Lab: Surfshark Security Analysis
The DNS leak tests came back clean. This isn’t a surprise given Surfshark’s emphasis on security. It offers various features you won’t find on other VPN apps. For example, the “alternative ID” feature assigns a unique identity — you get a new name, physical address and email address. You can use this identity on Craigslist so spam doesn’t flood your primary inbox.
| Protocol | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
| WireGuard | ChaCha20 | |
Surfshark Pricing & Value
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN. The best deal (the two-year plan) costs $2.29 per month. Shorter-term plans are also available — the annual plan costs $3.22 per month, while the monthly plan costs $15.45. Like other VPNs on this list, Surfshark offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. To learn more before you sign up, read our comprehensive Surfshark review.
- Unlimited GB bandwidth, Unlimited devices, Secure VPN, Ad blocker, Cookie pop-up blocker. Plans renew: $185.40 for one year, $370.80 for two years
- Unlimited GB
- Unlimited
- Yes
- Everything in Starter, plus Antivirus protection, Identity protection, Email Breach and Credit Card Alerts, Online Alias Plans renew: $191.40 for one year, $380.80 for two years.
- Unlimited GB
- Unlimited
- Everything in One, plus Data removal Plans renew: $215.40 for one year, $430.80 for two years
- Unlimited GB
- Unlimited
4. CyberGhost — Craigslist VPN With Huge Server Network
Very Fast
Very Fast
Fast
CyberGhost has more than 11,600 servers to choose from in more than 100 countries. This means you’ll never run out of IP addresses when using Craigslist. The app lets you switch between OpenVPN, IKEv2 and WireGuard combined with AES-256 or ChaCha20, depending on the device you’re using.
During our tests, we unblocked Netflix, BBC iPlayer and Hulu using CyberGhost, but we couldn’t get into Amazon Prime Video. On the bright side, CyberGhost allows you to automate various aspects of the VPN. For example, you can automatically connect to a specific server each time you launch the browser and visit Craigslist so you never have to manually connect to a server.
CyberGhost Hands-On Testing
CyberGhost offers one of the best desktop interfaces of any VPN on the market. It’s cleverly designed and has great aesthetic appeal. We like how the app lets you sort servers based on distance from your location and server load — this makes it easier to select an optimal server.
Notes From the Lab: CyberGhost Speed Test Results
CyberGhost isn’t the fastest VPN around, but it’s fast enough to browse Craigslist and stream content in standard quality without lags. You can manage slower speeds to an extent by selecting a server closer to your physical location and with a lower server load. CyberGhost helps sort servers based on distance and load, making it easier to find an optimal server.
Notes From the Lab: CyberGhost Security Analysis
Our tests showed no DNS, IP or WebRTC leaks when using CyberGhost. The VPN offers three encryption protocols to secure your connection, including OpenVPN, IKEv2 and WireGuard, depending on the device you’re using. The app also has an ad and malware blocker and NoSpy servers, which offer complete anonymity.
| Protocol | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | LINUX |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
| WireGuard | ChaCha20 | LINUX |
CyberGhost Pricing & Value
CyberGhost is a low-cost VPN. The best deal (the two-year plan) costs $2.37 per month. Shorter-term plans are also available. The six-month plan costs $6.99 per month, while the monthly plan costs $12.99.
The VPN provider offers a 45-day money-back guarantee with all plans except the monthly plan, which comes with a 14-day money-back guarantee. This means there’s no risk in trying CyberGhost. However, if you want more information before signing up, head over to our CyberGhost review.
- *The $56.94 price under the 2-year plan is billed yearly after the first two years.
- Unlimited GB
- 7
- Yes
5. Proton VPN — Best Free VPN for Craigslist
Proton VPN offers a generous free plan, with unlimited data and access to servers in five countries — the U.S., the Netherlands, Japan, Romania and Poland. However, pre-existing accounts only have access to servers in the U.S., the Netherlands and Japan.
If you only want a VPN to access Craigslist, Proton VPN is an excellent choice. It can unblock Craigslist, secure your connection and help you access geoblocked content and websites like Netflix at zero cost.
Most Proton VPN features, including the kill switch, split tunneling (only available on Windows and Android) and profiles, are available on the free plan. If you want more from Proton VPN — such as access to more server locations, the ability to select the server location you connect to and features like an ad blocker — you’ll need to switch to a paid plan.
Proton VPN Hands-On Testing
Proton VPN packs in quite a few features on the home screen. There’s a map on the right showing server locations and a left-hand sidebar where you’ll find a one-click connect button, a server list and tabs for features like the kill switch, Secure Core servers, NetShield (ad and malware blocker) and port forwarding.
Notes From the Lab: Proton VPN Security Analysis
We tested Proton VPN for DNS leaks and it came back clean. Overall, Proton VPN is a secure VPN that offers four encryption protocols — OpenVPN, IKEv2, Stealth and WireGuard, depending on the device you’re using. The VPN app also has Secure Core servers, which is just a fancy term for double VPN.
| Protocol | Encryption | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| OpenVPN | AES-256 | LINUX |
| IKEv2 | AES-256 | |
| Stealth | AES-256 | * |
| WireGuard | ChaCha20 | |
Proton VPN Pricing & Value
The free plan is Proton VPN’s best offer. The paid plans are more expensive compared to superior services on this list like NordVPN. The best deal (the two-year plan) costs $4.99 per month. If you want to opt for a shorter-term plan, you have two options: the annual plan, which costs $5.99 per month, or the monthly plan, which costs $9.99.
All plans offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can always claim a full refund if you’re not satisfied. If you want to learn more about Proton VPN’s feature set and capabilities, head over to our Proton VPN review.
- Unlimited GB
- 1
- Yes
- Unlimited GB
- 5
- Yes
Community Discussion: Best VPN Service for Craigslist
NordVPN is the most commonly recommended VPN for Craigslist. By contrast, most customers face problems when using Private Internet Access (PIA). One Redditor commented, “About 75% of the time on PIA IP addresses Craigslist blocks my IP. Disconnect from the VPN and I’m golden.”
IPVanish is another option. One user swears by IPVanish, saying, “I’ve done MUCH research about VPNs for several years, and finally settled on IPVanish, which I’m using right now in Thailand. It also works on Craigslist and every other site I’ve used it on.”
We also noticed that Atlas VPN and PrivateVPN were mentioned in a few discussions, but those don’t seem to be effective at unblocking Craigslist. We’ve also come across forum discussions mentioning the Craigslist proxy server. Most of the proxy servers don’t work, and none of them secure your connection.
How to Use a VPN for Craigslist
Using a VPN for Craigslist is a simple, three-step process. It’s no different than using a VPN for any other purpose. However, if it’s your first time using a VPN, here’s a step-by-step guide you can follow:
- Install ExpressVPN
Go to ExpressVPN’s website (or that of another VPN provider from the list) and sign up for a plan. Download and install ExpressVPN on your device after signing up.
- Connect to a Server
Once you’ve installed the app, launch ExpressVPN. Log in using your credentials. Find and connect to a server from the list of servers on ExpressVPN.
- Access Craigslist
Access Craigslist like you normally would. If you can’t get access, try disconnecting and reconnecting to the VPN, or connect to a different server.
Why You Need a VPN for Craigslist
Craigslist bans users for various reasons. Although blocking is a great way to make things a bit more difficult for spammers, the blocks also affect genuine sellers trying to create listings on Craigslist. In many cases, Craigslist bans users for creating listings for multiple locations or too frequently.
The service registers your IP address. If Craigslist has banned you and you try to access the site using the same IP address, you’ll see a message denying you access. VPNs help you get past these bans by assigning a new IP address to your device. Whenever Craigslist bans you, you can switch the VPN server, change your IP address and unblock Craigslist.
Final Thoughts
Though IP address bans do help lower the number of scammers on the platform, the service often ends up blocking innocent users. A VPN can help you get past Craigslist’s IP address block. Therefore, if Craigslist bans your IP address, you can always switch servers to get past the block.
We recommend using ExpressVPN if you’re dealing with an IP ban on Craigslist, but other options on this list are also worth considering. Have you used a VPN to unblock Craigslist and post ads? Which one did you use, and were you able to unblock Craigslist? Let us know in the comments below, and as always, thank you for reading.
FAQ: Unblock Craigslist With a VPN
Craigslist blocks VPNs to prevent spammers and fraudsters from creating fraudulent listings. Moreover, Craigslist focuses on local transactions and discourages creating listings in another country. However, VPNs with large server networks in your preferred region or VPNs that frequently add new IP addresses can still help you unblock Craigslist.
You can get around a Craigslist ban by using a VPN with a large server network in your preferred region or a VPN that frequently adds new IP addresses. Craigslist uses IP addresses to block users. When you use a VPN to change your IP address, Craigslist can’t detect the VPN use and grants you access.
Proton VPN is the best free VPN for Craigslist. The free plan offers unlimited data and servers in three countries — the U.S., the Netherlands and Japan. New accounts have access to two more locations — Romania and Poland. Proton VPN effectively unblocks Craigslist for free. Switch to the paid plan if you want access to servers in more countries and features like an ad blocker.