ParishSOFT vs Planning Center: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between ParishSOFT and Planning Center 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 February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
ParishSOFT
Comprehensive church management software for Catholic parishes and dioceses.
Best for you if:
- • Comprehensive church management software for Catholic parishes and dioceses.
- • Streamlines administrative tasks, financial management, and community engagement.
Planning Center
Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Modular church management system with a free core database.
- • Integrates various church functions like people management, giving, and events.
| At a Glance |  ParishSOFT |  Planning Center |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | CRM | CRM |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | ParishSOFT | Planning Center |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CRMAccounting | CRMVolunteer Management |
How ParishSOFT and Planning Center Compare
ParishSOFT
Comprehensive church management software for Catholic parishes and dioceses.
Paid
Planning Center
Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement.
Free tier available
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Planning Center has a free tier. ParishSOFT is paid only.
Go with: Planning Center
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: ParishSOFT
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: ParishSOFT
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
ParishSOFT is paid. Planning Center is freemium. Planning Center lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are crm tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
ParishSOFT
- Our pick for this comparison
Planning Center
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
ParishSOFT is our pick. Planning Center has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ParishSOFT or Planning Center better?
ParishSOFT scores high/100 in our evaluation. ParishSOFT is paid and Planning Center is freemium.
What are ParishSOFT and Planning Center used for?
ParishSOFT: Comprehensive church management software for Catholic parishes and dioceses.. Planning Center: Integrated church management software designed to streamline operations and enhance congregant engagement..
What does ParishSOFT cost vs Planning Center?
ParishSOFT is a paid tool. Planning Center is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.