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Best Gusto Alternatives (2026)

Gusto is payroll, benefits, and hr for small businesses, starting at $40/mo. Here are the best alternatives — whether you need something cheaper, simpler, or with different features.

Why people switch from Gusto

  • US only
  • More expensive than DIY options
  • Limited international support
#1 Alternative

Rippling

All-in-one HR, IT, and finance platform

Starting at
$8

Rippling is a workforce management platform that unifies HR, IT, and finance operations. Unlike Deel or Gusto which focus on payroll, Rippling also manages employee devices, app provisioning, and benefits in one system.

✓ True all-in-one HR + IT platform✓ Fast employee onboarding/offboarding✓ Strong automation
#2 Alternative

Deel

Global payroll and compliance for remote teams

Starting at
$49

Deel is a global HR platform that handles payroll, compliance, and contractor management across 150+ countries. It lets companies hire anyone, anywhere without setting up local entities.

✓ Covers 150+ countries✓ Streamlined onboarding✓ Strong compliance features
#3 Alternative

QuickBooks

Accounting software for small and medium businesses

Starting at
$17.5

QuickBooks by Intuit is the most widely used accounting software for small businesses. It handles invoicing, expenses, payroll, tax filing, bank reconciliation, and financial reporting — available in desktop and cloud versions.

✓ Most widely used accounting software✓ Strong accountant ecosystem✓ Comprehensive features

Gusto vs alternatives: quick comparison

Tool Starting price Free plan Pricing model G2 score
Gusto (current) $40 paid 4.5/5
Rippling $8 paid 4.8/5
Deel $49 paid 4.8/5
QuickBooks $17.5 paid 4/5

Not sure which tool to pick?

See a detailed breakdown of Gusto pricing before you decide.

See Gusto pricing →