Greenhouse vs Wave Payroll
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Greenhouse
Greenhouse is a leading applicant tracking system built for structured, data-driven hiring. It helps companies design consistent interview processes, reduce bias, and make better hiring decisions. Greenhouse is the ATS of choice for mid to large companies with high-volume or technical hiring needs.
Wave Payroll
Wave Payroll is a simple payroll solution built into the Wave accounting ecosystem. It is designed for very small businesses that already use Wave for accounting and want an integrated payroll solution. Wave Payroll handles direct deposit, tax payments, and W-2s, making it a natural choice for businesses already in the Wave ecosystem.
Pros
- ✓Best-in-class structured hiring tools with scorecards and interview kits
- ✓Extensive integration ecosystem with 300+ HR and productivity tools
- ✓Powerful reporting and hiring analytics
- ✓Strong DEI tools to reduce bias in hiring
Cons
- ✗Expensive for small companies with limited hiring volume
- ✗Complex to set up and requires dedicated admin resources
- ✗No built-in HRIS — requires integration with a separate HR system
Pros
- ✓Seamlessly integrates with Wave accounting — no manual data transfer needed
- ✓Very affordable pricing for micro-businesses
- ✓Simple interface with minimal setup required
- ✓Free Wave accounting included with subscription
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to dedicated payroll platforms
- ✗Tax filing is only automatic in select states — manual filing required in others
- ✗No mobile payroll app
- ✗Not suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
Greenhouse vs Wave Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Greenhouse | Wave Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Applicant Tracking | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | $20/mo + $6/person |
| Best For | Mid to large companies with high-volume hiring | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Greenhouse Features
- ✓Job postings
- ✓candidate tracking
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓reporting
- ✓integrations
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Greenhouse if mid to large companies with high-volume hiring. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Best For
Mid to large companies with high-volume hiring
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Also Consider
If neither Greenhouse nor Wave Payroll is the right fit, Manatal is worth evaluating.
Manatal
Recruitment agencies and budget-conscious companies wanting AI-powered ATS at an affordable price
From $15/user/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Greenhouse and Wave Payroll?
Greenhouse is best for mid to large companies with high-volume hiring. Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
Which is better, Greenhouse or Wave Payroll?
Choose Greenhouse if mid to large companies with high-volume hiring. Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll.
How much does Greenhouse cost?
Greenhouse starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Greenhouse?
Mid to large companies with high-volume hiring
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll