Rippling Payroll vs Paylocity
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Rippling Payroll
Rippling Payroll is the payroll module within the Rippling platform, which combines HR, IT, and finance management in one system. It offers global payroll capabilities, automatic tax filing, and deep integrations with the rest of the Rippling suite. Rippling Payroll is ideal for companies that want payroll tightly connected to their broader HR and IT operations.
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
- ✓Deeply integrated with HR, IT, and finance in one platform
- ✓Global payroll available in 50+ countries
- ✓Automatic compliance updates for changing tax laws
- ✓Extremely powerful automation capabilities across all modules
Cons
- ✗Pricing requires a custom quote and can be expensive for small teams
- ✗Requires buying into the full Rippling platform for best value
- ✗Can be complex to set up without dedicated HR resources
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
Rippling Payroll vs Paylocity: Side by Side
| Factor | Rippling Payroll | Paylocity |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Custom pricing | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management | Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Rippling Payroll Features
- ✓Global payroll
- ✓automatic tax filing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓contractor payments
- ✓PEO services
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓time tracking
- ✓expense management
Paylocity Features
- ✓Payroll
- ✓benefits
- ✓talent management
- ✓workforce management
- ✓analytics
- ✓employee self-service
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Best For
Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management
Best For
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees
Also Consider
If neither Rippling Payroll nor Paylocity is the right fit, Multiplier is worth evaluating.
Multiplier
Startups and SMBs hiring internationally on a budget
From $40/contractor/mo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Rippling Payroll and Paylocity?
Rippling Payroll is best for mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Paylocity is best for mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
Which is better, Rippling Payroll or Paylocity?
Choose Rippling Payroll if mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with hr and it management. Choose Paylocity if mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees.
How much does Rippling Payroll cost?
Rippling Payroll starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Paylocity cost?
Paylocity starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Rippling Payroll?
Mid-size companies needing payroll tightly integrated with HR and IT management
Who should use Paylocity?
Mid-market businesses with 20-1000 employees