Ghost is a relatively lean publishing platform built on Node.js, but a production installation still includes the application, MySQL, Nginx or another reverse proxy, backups, and transactional email.
A small Ghost publication can run on modest VPS resources, while larger membership and newsletter workloads need more database and operational headroom.
Key takeaways
- 2 GB RAM is a comfortable starting point for many small Ghost sites.
- 4 GB is useful for larger membership sites, local database load, and extra services.
- Email delivery should usually use a dedicated provider rather than local SMTP.
- Back up both the Ghost content and the database.
- Choose a region near the primary audience.
How much RAM for Ghost?
A small publication can run comfortably on 2 GB with Ghost, MySQL, and a reverse proxy when traffic is moderate. Four gigabytes provides more room for database caching, image processing, and additional services.
Do not size only from Node.js memory. The complete stack determines capacity.
Database and storage
Ghost uses MySQL in production, so database health affects the publishing experience and dynamic requests. Fast storage and enough memory for caching improve consistency.
Media libraries also grow over time, so disk capacity and backup size should be planned.
Email and memberships
Newsletter and transactional email are operationally different from hosting the web application. Use a reputable mail service unless you specifically want to manage email infrastructure.
Membership sites also create more database writes and dynamic account activity than a simple public blog.
Backup and deployment
Keep content, database backups, configuration, and theme code recoverable outside the live VM. A Ghost server should be rebuildable rather than treated as a unique machine.
Docker or traditional system services can both work; choose the deployment method your team can maintain confidently.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1 GB enough for Ghost?
It can be for a small site, but 2 GB is a more comfortable production starting point.
Does Ghost need MySQL?
Production Ghost installations use MySQL, so database sizing and backups are part of the VPS plan.
Can Ghost run in Docker?
Yes. Docker is a common way to deploy Ghost with MySQL and a reverse proxy.
Should Ghost send email directly from the VPS?
Using a dedicated email provider is usually simpler and more reliable than operating your own mail delivery.