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How to Install and Manage PostgreSQL on macOS

Method 1: Installing PostgreSQL with Homebrew

Straightforward PostgreSQL setup for who prefer the command-line.

1. Install PostgreSQL

Open Terminal and execute the following commands to update Homebrew and install PostgreSQL:

brew update
brew install postgresql

2. Start PostgreSQL Service

brew services start postgresql

PostgreSQL will run in the background as a service.

3. Creating a Database

To create a new database, you first need to connect to the PostgreSQL command-line interface (CLI):

psql -U postgres

Next, execute the command to create your database:

CREATE DATABASE my_new_database;

You can list all databases with command \l, or exit the CLI with \q.

4. Stopping PostgreSQL Service

When you’re done and wish to stop the PostgreSQL service, use the following command:

brew services stop postgresql

Method 2: Installing PostgreSQL Using the GUI Installer

If you’re more comfortable with graphical interfaces, the PostgreSQL app and pgAdmin provide a user-friendly alternative to command-line tools.

1. Download PostgreSQL

Start by downloading the PostgreSQL app.

2. Download pgAdmin

To manage your databases via a GUI, download pgAdmin.

After installing both applications, you can create databases using pgAdmin and start your server with the PostgreSQL app.