Paychex vs Paylocity

Last updated: 2025-11-27

This comparison focuses on who each tool fits best, pricing structure (where available), and the practical differences that matter for SMB payroll decisions.

At a glance

	Paychex	Paylocity
Segment	MID	MID
Best for	Businesses that want payroll with the option to add HR services and more hands-on support.	Mid-sized organizations that want a wider HCM suite alongside payroll.
Pricing	Custom pricing; varies by plan and services (check vendor site).	Custom pricing; varies by modules and organization size (check vendor site).
Key features	Payroll processing Tax services HR add-ons Benefits support Reporting	Payroll processing HCM suite Employee self-service Reporting Time tools (varies)

Which should you choose?

Choose Paychex if…

You fit: Businesses that want payroll with the option to add HR services and more hands-on support.
You value its approach to payroll + HR tradeoffs.

Choose Paylocity if…

You fit: Mid-sized organizations that want a wider HCM suite alongside payroll.
You value its approach to payroll + HR tradeoffs.

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