Paylocity vs Gusto: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Paylocity and Gusto 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:
Paylocity
Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.
Best for you if:
- • 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.
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 7.4/10)
- • 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
| At a Glance |  Paylocity |  Gusto |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Expense Management | Payroll |
Rating | 74/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Paylocity | Gusto |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 74 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Expense ManagementPayroll | PayrollEmployee Onboarding |
How Paylocity and Gusto Compare
Paylocity
Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.
Paid · 74/100 score
Gusto
Modern HR, benefits, and payroll
Paid · 86/100 score
Paylocity is a expense management tool. Gusto is in payroll.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Gusto
Want the highest-rated option?
Paylocity: 74/100. Gusto: 86/100.
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?
Paylocity is a expense management tool. Gusto is in payroll. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Gusto scores higher: 86/100 vs 74/100.
Key Takeaways
Gusto
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 74
- Our pick for this comparison
Paylocity
- Better fit for expense management
The Bottom Line
Gusto (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Paylocity or Gusto better?
Gusto scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Paylocity and Gusto used for?
Paylocity: Unify HR, Finance, & IT for simplified operations and empowered teams.. Gusto: Modern HR, benefits, and payroll.
What does Paylocity cost vs Gusto?
Paylocity is a paid tool. Gusto is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.