Gusto vs Paylocity: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Gusto and Paylocity comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated March 21, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need payroll features specifically
- • Gusto is an all-in-one payroll and HR platform for small businesses
- • It handles payroll, benefits, onboarding, and compliance with easy-to-use tools
Paylocity
Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need expense management features specifically
- • Unifies HR, Finance, and IT functions on a single platform.
- • Automates tasks, provides real-time data, and improves decision-making.
| At a Glance |  Gusto |  Paylocity |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Payroll | Expense Management |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Gusto | Paylocity |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | PayrollEmployee Onboarding | Expense ManagementPayroll |
How Gusto and Paylocity Compare
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Paid
Paylocity
Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.
Paid
Gusto is a payroll tool. Paylocity is in expense management.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Gusto
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Gusto
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Gusto
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Gusto is a payroll tool. Paylocity is in expense management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Gusto
- 0
- Our pick for this comparison
Paylocity
- Better fit for expense management
The Bottom Line
Gusto is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gusto or Paylocity better?
Gusto is rated high in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Gusto and Paylocity used for?
Gusto: Modern HR, benefits, and payroll. Paylocity: Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams..
What does Gusto cost vs Paylocity?
Gusto is a paid tool. Paylocity is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.