Best Self-Hosted Headless CMS in 2026

API-first CMS platforms that deliver content as data, letting developers build frontends with any technology.

The top-rated pick is Payload with 44,079 GitHub stars.

4 self-hosted headless cms — ranked by GitHub stars. Browse all

Payload

Payload is an open-source, TypeScript-first headless CMS and application framework built on Next.js, Express, and React.

Alternative to:

Contentful

TinaCMS

A fully open-source headless CMS with Git support, Markdown editing, and live visual preview for React-based sites.

Alternative to:

Contentful

WollyCMS

Self-hosted, open-source headless CMS built specifically for Astro.js with a block-based page builder.

Alternative to:

Contentful

CometCMS

Headless, simple CMS with a PHP backend and a convenient Vue admin frontend.

Alternative to:

Contentful

Why self-host?

Self-hosting puts you in control. You own your data, avoid vendor lock-in, and eliminate recurring subscription costs. For teams handling sensitive data or operating under strict compliance requirements, running your own infrastructure is often the only viable option.