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How to Install Ghost Locally on Windows and macOS in 2025

Ghost is a powerful, open-source blogging platform built on Node.js, ideal for developers and content creators who want a sleek, modern publishing experience. Installing Ghost locally on your Windows or macOS machine is a great way to test themes, experiment with features, or develop a blog before going live. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to set up Ghost locally in 2025, tailored for both operating systems.

Prerequisites

Before installing Ghost, ensure your system meets these requirements:

  • Operating System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit) or macOS 13+ (Ventura or later)
  • Node.js: A supported LTS version (e.g., Node.js v18 or v20)
  • Storage: At least 1–2 GB free
  • Terminal: Command Prompt or PowerShell for Windows; Terminal for macOS
  • Web Browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.

Step 1: Install Node.js

On Windows

Visit Node.js and download the latest LTS version (v18 or v20).
Run the installer and verify installation:

node -v
npm -v

On macOS

Install via Homebrew:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL <a data-start="1478" data-end="1544" rel="noopener" target="_new" class="" href="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh">https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh</a>)"
brew install node

Alternatively, download from Node.js.
Verify:

node -v
npm -v

Tip: Use nvm or nvm-windows to manage multiple Node.js versions.

Step 2: Install Ghost-CLI

Open your terminal or command prompt and run:

npm install -g ghost-cli@latest

Verify:

ghost --version

Troubleshooting: Use sudo on macOS if permission errors occur, or run as Administrator on Windows.

Step 3: Set Up a Directory for Ghost

On Windows

mkdir C:\code\ghost
cd C:\code\ghost

On macOS

mkdir ~/ghost
cd ~/ghost

Ensure the directory is empty.

Step 4: Install Ghost Locally

Inside your chosen folder, run:

ghost install local

This will:

  • Check compatibility
  • Download and install Ghost
  • Set up a local instance using SQLite3

Accept firewall or network prompts if they appear.

To troubleshoot:

ghost doctor

Step 5: Access Your Ghost Site

Open your browser and go to:

Follow the on-screen steps to set up your Ghost site.

Step 6: Manage Your Ghost Instance

Run these commands from the Ghost folder:

ghost start        # Start Ghost
ghost stop         # Stop Ghost
ghost update       # Update Ghost
ghost doctor       # Diagnose issues
ghost uninstall    # Remove Ghost

Tip: Always back up the /content folder before updates.

Step 7: Customize Your Ghost Site

Ghost installs a /content folder with:

  • /content/themes – add or modify themes
  • /content/data – stores your content

Restart Ghost to apply theme changes:

ghost stop
ghost start

Use a text editor like Visual Studio Code to develop or edit themes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Node.js Version Errors

nvm install 18
nvm use 18

Permission Issues
Use sudo on macOS or run as Administrator on Windows.

Port Conflicts
Ghost will suggest a new port or help resolve conflicts.

Network Errors
If you get a 401 Unauthorized, check .npmrc or proxy settings.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully installed Ghost locally! Use your new setup to explore features, develop custom themes, and test your site in a safe environment. For more help, visit the Ghost Documentation or join the Ghost Forum.

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