BambooHR vs Paylocity
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
BambooHR
BambooHR is an HR software platform focused on employee data management, onboarding, and performance tracking. It is widely used by small to mid-size companies for its intuitive interface and strong reporting tools. BambooHR excels at centralizing employee records and streamlining HR workflows.
Paylocity
Paylocity is a modern HR and payroll platform designed for mid-market businesses. It combines payroll processing with employee engagement tools, learning management, and workforce analytics. Paylocity stands out for its strong mobile experience and focus on building connected, engaged workplaces.
Pros
- ✓Clean, intuitive interface that HR teams love
- ✓Excellent onboarding tools with e-signatures and task management
- ✓Strong analytics and customizable reporting
- ✓Good mobile app for employees and managers
Cons
- ✗Payroll is a US-only add-on that costs extra
- ✗Limited functionality for international teams
- ✗Performance management module is basic compared to dedicated tools
Pros
- ✓Strong employee engagement and communication tools
- ✓Excellent mobile app for both managers and employees
- ✓Modern UI with good user adoption rates
- ✓Robust payroll with strong compliance features
Cons
- ✗Pricing requires a sales call and is not published online
- ✗Implementation can be complex for larger organizations
- ✗Some advanced features require additional modules at extra cost
BambooHR vs Paylocity: Side by Side
| Factor | BambooHR | Paylocity |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $6/employee/mo | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Small to mid-size US businesses focused on HR | Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
BambooHR Features
- ✓Employee records
- ✓PTO tracking
- ✓onboarding
- ✓performance reviews
- ✓reporting
Paylocity Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓benefits
- ✓talent management
- ✓workforce management
- ✓analytics
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose BambooHR if small to mid-size us businesses focused on hr. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Best For
Small to mid-size US businesses focused on HR
Best For
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
How BambooHR and Paylocity Are Similar
- •Both are HR Software platforms designed for business teams
- •Both offer web-based access with no software installation required
- •Both provide customer support and onboarding resources
- •Both integrate with popular third-party business tools
- •Both offer a trial or demo to evaluate before purchasing
Also Consider
If neither BambooHR nor Paylocity is the right fit, Justworks is worth evaluating.
Justworks
Small businesses wanting Fortune 500 benefits
From $59/employee/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BambooHR and Paylocity?
BambooHR is best for small to mid-size us businesses focused on hr. Paylocity is best for mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Which is better, BambooHR or Paylocity?
Choose BambooHR if small to mid-size us businesses focused on hr. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
How much does BambooHR cost?
BambooHR starts at $6/employee/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Paylocity cost?
Paylocity starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use BambooHR?
Small to mid-size US businesses focused on HR
Who should use Paylocity?
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees