The Best and Cheapest Way to Migrate a WordPress Site to a New Domain on the Same Host

Transitioning a WordPress site from an old domain to a new one on the same hosting platform can sometimes be a daunting task. However, with the right tools and procedures, this process can be simple and cost-effective. In this guide, we will explore several methods and options to help you migrate your WordPress site smoothly and efficiently.

Ask Your Hosting Company for Assistance

Most web hosts, including reputable ones like Cloudways, offer comprehensive support for migrating websites. They have dedicated tools and in-house staff to help with the transition. If your preferred host doesn't offer direct migration services, they can still provide invaluable assistance. Leveraging their expertise can save you time and frustration.

WordPress Migration Plugin: Duplicator

A highly effective plugin for migrating WordPress sites is the Duplicator plugin. This tool allows you to package your current WordPress site into a single zip file, making it easy to transport and deploy to the new domain. Using Duplicator is a straightforward process:

Install the Duplicator plugin on your old domain. Create a project using the plugin to package your site. Select your desired settings and run the package creation process. Unzip the generated file and transfer it to your new domain using FTP. Deploy the new package on the new domain.

Cloudways Managed Cloud Hosting Platform

If you are a fan of using Cloudways, especially when combined with the DigitalOcean platform, you can take advantage of their automatic migration tool, the Duplicator plugin, and other managed services. This streamlined process allows you to migrate your site with minimal effort. Here’s how it works:

Create a new environment on Cloudways for your new domain. Install the Duplicator plugin via the Cloudways control panel. Package your site using the Duplicator plugin. Migrate your site by following the prompts provided by Cloudways.

For a detailed guide on how to install and use WordPress on DigitalOcean with Cloudways, refer to their comprehensive article:

Detailed Guide – Install WordPress on DigitalOcean using Cloudways

Manual Migration Process

If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can manually migrate your WordPress site. The steps involved in this method include:

Backup your current site using BackupBuddy or via FTP by copying your codebase and database. Copy the backup files to the new domain via FTP. Unzip the backup files on the new domain. Point your database to the new domain using phpMyAdmin. Adjust the settings in your WordPress configuration file () to reflect the new domain and database connection details.

This process can be time-consuming and requires a good understanding of how WordPress works. However, it offers full control and flexibility in customizing the migration process.

Change the Domain Name Directly

The simplest method, if available, is to ask your hosting provider just to change the domain name within the control panel. For this to work, the new domain must be registered with a registrar before you request the change. Once the new domain is registered, you can update the domain name in the hosting control panel and facilitate the transition:

Register your new domain with a registrar. Navigate to your hosting control panel and locate the domain management section. Change the domain name setting to the new domain you just registered. Wait for the DNS changes to propagate, typically within 24-48 hours.

The best hosting providers will guide you through this process, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal downtime.

Conclusion

Migrating a WordPress site to a new domain can be simplified significantly by leveraging the tools and resources provided by your hosting provider. Whether you choose to use a migration plugin like Duplicator, opt for a managed migration service, or handle the process manually, the key is to choose the method that best suits your needs and expertise level. With the right approach, the transition can be seamless and cost-effective.