Paylocity vs Patriot Payroll
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.
Patriot Payroll
Patriot Payroll is one of the most affordable full-service payroll solutions for small businesses. It offers basic payroll and full-service payroll tiers, with the full-service option handling all federal, state, and local tax filings. Patriot is popular with very small businesses and solo operators who want simple, reliable payroll without complex features.
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
- ✓One of the most affordable payroll solutions available
- ✓Simple and easy to use with minimal learning curve
- ✓US-based customer support available by phone
- ✓Free trial available before committing
Cons
- ✗Limited features compared to full HR platforms
- ✗No mobile app for running payroll
- ✗Benefits administration not included
- ✗Less suitable for businesses with complex payroll needs
Paylocity vs Patriot Payroll: Side by Side
| Factor | Paylocity | Patriot Payroll |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | HR Software | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | $17/mo + $4/person |
| Best For | Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees | Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Paylocity Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓benefits
- ✓talent management
- ✓workforce management
- ✓analytics
- ✓employee self-service
Patriot Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓tax filing options
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓employee self-service portal
- ✓time and attendance add-on
- ✓HR software add-on
- ✓contractor payments
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees. Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
Best For
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Best For
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution
Also Consider
If neither Paylocity nor Patriot Payroll 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 Patriot Payroll?
Paylocity is best for mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees. Patriot Payroll is best for very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
Which is better, Paylocity or Patriot Payroll?
Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees. Choose Patriot Payroll if very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution.
How much does Paylocity cost?
Paylocity starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Patriot Payroll cost?
Patriot Payroll starts at $17/mo + $4/person. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Paylocity?
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Who should use Patriot Payroll?
Very small businesses and solo operators wanting the most affordable payroll solution