Wave Payroll vs Greenhouse
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
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.
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.
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
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
Wave Payroll vs Greenhouse: Side by Side
| Factor | Wave Payroll | Greenhouse |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Payroll Software | Applicant Tracking |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | $20/mo + $6/person | Custom pricing |
| Best For | Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll | Mid to large companies with high-volume hiring |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Wave Payroll Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓direct deposit
- ✓tax payments and filings
- ✓W-2 and 1099 preparation
- ✓Wave accounting integration
- ✓employee self-service
Greenhouse Features
- ✓Job postings
- ✓candidate tracking
- ✓interview scheduling
- ✓reporting
- ✓integrations
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Greenhouse if mid to large companies with high-volume hiring.
Best For
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Best For
Mid to large companies with high-volume hiring
Also Consider
If neither Wave Payroll nor Greenhouse 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 Wave Payroll and Greenhouse?
Wave Payroll is best for micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Greenhouse is best for mid to large companies with high-volume hiring.
Which is better, Wave Payroll or Greenhouse?
Choose Wave Payroll if micro-businesses already using wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll. Choose Greenhouse if mid to large companies with high-volume hiring.
How much does Wave Payroll cost?
Wave Payroll starts at $20/mo + $6/person. Pricing model: Paid.
How much does Greenhouse cost?
Greenhouse starts at Custom pricing. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Wave Payroll?
Micro-businesses already using Wave accounting that want simple integrated payroll
Who should use Greenhouse?
Mid to large companies with high-volume hiring