Install a Python package into a different directory using pip?

python

pip

package-management

virtualenv

byNikita Barsukov·Jan 8, 2025

Set the destination for pip to install a package using the --target flag:

pip install specific-package --target=/path/to/directory

Replace /path/to/directory with your chosen directory and specific-package with the actual package name. Ensure /path/to/directory is included in PYTHONPATH to make Python recognize it:

PYTHONPATH=/path/to/directory python your_script.py

Congratulations, you've successfully avoided package pileup on the default path! 🎉 Now let's dive deeper.

Navigating the Python Package Maze

When it comes to managing Python packages, here's a handy guide to conquer the beast:

Making Python recognize your custom directory

Once you install the package in your desired directory, there are a couple of ways to introduce your proud Python to its new asset:

Add the directory to the environment variable PYTHONPATH.
Or, include the path in a .pth file within the site-packages of your Python installation.

Giving pip a power-up

The --target option may be unavailable in old pip versions:

Update pip on Linux or OS X: pip install -U pip
On Windows: python -m pip install -U pip

We all love updates, don't we? 😉

Taking full control with `--install-option`

If you want a more granular control:

Use the --install-option to set customize package install location:

pip install specific-package --install-option="--prefix=/path/to/directory" --install-option="--install-scripts=/path/to/custom/scripts"

Because who doesn't like to move things around a bit? 😇

Handling scripts and executables

For scripts and executables:

Include the directory in your PATH to call them directly from the terminal.
Now you're a wizard commanding scripts! 🧙‍♂️

Overcome installation hurdles with --ignore-installed

To overcome potential conflicts or force a fresh package install:

Use --ignore-installed to ignore previously installed versions and reinstall them in the new target directory.

Advanced Management Tips and Workarounds

Preserving installation with PYTHONUSERBASE

To persist your configuration throughout sessions:

Set PYTHONUSERBASE to a custom user site-packages directory and use --user:

PYTHONUSERBASE=/path/to/package_directory pip install --user package_name

Now every new install won't forget their customized home! 🏡

Set pip on autopilot with pip configs

Avoid typing the same lengthy commands:

Edit ~/.pip/pip.conf (Unix) or %APPDATA%\pip\pip.ini (Windows) to set default pip options.

Cleaner environments with virtualenv

For a tidy set-up:

Employ virtual environments (venv or virtualenv) to confine project dependencies.
Side-step potential global installation issues.

Become a Python installation guru

Expand your understanding:

Pore over Python's official installation guides, package handling PEPs such as PEP 582, for an in-depth understanding of package management.

explain-codes / Python / Install a Python package into a different directory using pip?

Linked

How do I update a Python package?



What is the purpose of "pip install --user ..."?



How do I check the versions of Python modules?



How to upgrade all Python packages with pip



How do I install pip on macOS or OS X?



Bash: pip: command not found



Python 3: ImportError "No Module named Setuptools"



Navigating the Python Package Maze Advanced Management Tips and Workarounds