Paylocity vs Lever
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
Lever
Lever is a modern talent acquisition suite combining ATS and CRM in one platform. Known for its clean interface and strong collaboration features, it helps recruiting teams build talent pipelines proactively.
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
Pros
- ✓Clean and intuitive interface
- ✓Strong CRM and nurturing features
- ✓Good collaboration tools for hiring managers
- ✓Solid analytics
- ✓Easy to get started
Cons
- ✗More expensive than basic ATS tools
- ✗Some advanced features require higher tiers
- ✗Limited onboarding features
- ✗Reporting could be deeper
Paylocity vs Lever: Side by Side
| Factor | Paylocity | Lever |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees | Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paylocity Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓benefits
- ✓talent management
- ✓workforce management
- ✓analytics
- ✓employee self-service
Lever Features
- ✓Applicant tracking
- ✓AI candidate scoring
- ✓job board posting
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓team collaboration
- ✓analytics
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees. Choose Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration.
Best For
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Best For
Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration
Also Consider
If neither Paylocity nor Lever 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 Paylocity and Lever?
Paylocity is best for mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees. Lever is best for mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration.
Which is better, Paylocity or Lever?
Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees. Choose Lever if mid-sized companies wanting a combined ats and crm with a clean interface and strong collaboration.
How much does Paylocity cost?
Paylocity starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Lever cost?
Visit Lever website for current pricing.
Who should use Paylocity?
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Who should use Lever?
Mid-sized companies wanting a combined ATS and CRM with a clean interface and strong collaboration