Introduction
Whether you lead a small congregation or a large multisite church, finding the right church management software is important for streamlining operations, communication and engagement. There are many great options on the market to choose from, each with their own unique strengths. In this blog, we evaluate and compare 15 top church software solutions based on key criteria to help you select the best one for your ministry’s needs.
Methods of Evaluation
To evaluate and rank the top church management software, we considered several key factors: core functionality and features, pricing & cost models, ease of use, customer reviews & ratings, size of user base, integration capabilities, support & training options. We also factored in non-conventional metrics like number of backlinks, average traffic and search volume for the keyword phrase to gauge online reputation and thought leadership. This provided a holistic view of each software’s capabilities and value to help churches of all sizes make an informed decision.
1. Tithe.ly
Tithe.ly is a church management software that allows churches to accept donations online, through text, and via their mobile app. Founded in 2009 and based in Atlanta, GA, Tithe.ly aims to make it easy for churches of all sizes to receive digital donations. With over 15,000 churches using their platform, Tithe.ly has become one of the leading church donation solutions on the market.
Pros: Some key advantages of using Tithe.ly include:
– Excellent app and platform for accepting online/mobile donations
– Integrates seamlessly with accounting software for easy transfer of funds
– Affordable pricing for churches of all sizes
– Offers additional features like fundraising and registration
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free plan only allows processing of the first $2,500 in monthly donations, so larger churches may need to upgrade to a paid plan.
Pricing: Tithe.ly offers several pricing plans:
– Free plan allows processing of the first $2,500 in monthly donations
– Professional plan starts at $49/month for up to $10,000 in monthly donations
– Advanced and Enterprise plans for higher donation volumes starting at $99/month
Some key stats about Tithe.ly include:
– Over 15,000 churches currently use Tithe.ly
– Processes over $2 billion in annual donations
– Donations can be accepted via their website plugin, mobile app, or text
– Integrates seamlessly with popular church management and accounting software like Church Community Builder, Shelby NextGen, and Aplos
2. Pushpay
Pushpay is a leading church management software for churches of all sizes. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, Pushpay provides a best-in-class online giving platform and cloud-based church management software.
Pros: Some key advantages of Pushpay include:
– Popular mobile giving platform that allows donors to easily give via their smartphones
– Engaging donation forms and payment options including credit cards, bank transfers, PayPal and more
– Seamlessly integrates with Planning Center for easy event and attendee management
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the monthly pricing is based on the number of active donors rather than church size or attendance, so smaller churches may find it more expensive than competitors.
Pricing: Pushpay offers three pricing tiers based on the number of active donors:
– Starter: Up to 250 donors for $99/month
– Essentials: 251-1000 donors for $149/month
– Premium: 1001+ donors for $249/month
Some key stats about Pushpay include:
– Used by over 17,000 churches worldwide
– Processed over $5 billion in donations
– Available in 6 different languages
– 24/7 phone and email support
3. Realm
Realm is a church management software that helps churches build better apps faster. Founded in 2012 and based in San Francisco, Realm provides an all-in-one member database, communication and group management platform for churches of any size.
Pros: Some key advantages of Realm include:
– Secure member database and communication tools keep sensitive member information private
– Customizable groups, schedules, roles and permissions allow flexible management of volunteers and programs
– Robust mobile app gives leaders access to church tools and information from anywhere
– Intuitive interface adapts to any device for easy access on the go
Cons: Potential disadvantages of Realm could include:
– Paid subscriptions required for full access to features and support
– Steeper learning curve than basic spreadsheet-based solutions
– Reliant on stable internet connection for mobile access
Pricing: Realm offers paid monthly and annual pricing plans starting at $49 per month for up to 100 members.
Some key stats about Realm include:
– Used by over 5,000 churches worldwide
– Available on iOS and Android with a web dashboard
– Integrates with tools like Facebook, Slack and SMS for communication
– Customizable groups, schedules, roles and permissions
RealmBuild better apps, faster.realm.io
4. Breeze
Breeze is a church management software (ChMS) created by Breezechurch to help churches manage their ministries and operations. In business since 2005, Breeze aims to provide an all-in-one platform that is easy for both staff and volunteers to use. Their software has basic and advanced packages starting from $49/month.
Pros: Key advantages of Breeze include:
– Affordable pricing for smaller churches starting at $49/month
– User-friendly interface designed for both staff and volunteers
– All-in-one system to manage events, check-ins, small groups and more
– Customizable fields to track information important to your church
– Integrations with third-party services like Planning Center for scheduling
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the basic plan has limited features best suited for smaller churches. Larger churches may need the more robust features of the Professional or Enterprise plans.
Pricing: Breeze offers three pricing tiers:
– Basic: Starts at $49/month for up to 250 family units
– Professional: Starts at $99/month for up to 500 family units
– Enterprise: Custom quote for customizable enterprise-level features
Some key stats about Breeze include:
– Used by over 8,000 churches worldwide
– Processes over $1 billion annually in donations
– Option for both online and offline donation processing
– Integrates with leading accounting software like QuickBooks
– Mobile app available for members and staff
5. Membership Toolkit
Membership Toolkit is a all-in-one membership management software designed specifically for churches, non-profits, and volunteer organizations. Founded in 2006 and based in California, Membership Toolkit helps over 3,000 faith-based and membership-driven organizations manage their members, volunteers, donations, and communications.
Pros: The main advantages of Membership Toolkit include:
– Comprehensive and scalable membership software to track all member details and engagement
– Robust directory, communication and analytics tools to stay connected to members
– Excellent website building tools included to create a professional online presence
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the pricing can be quite expensive for larger churches and organizations with thousands of members.
Pricing: Membership Toolkit offers three pricing tiers:
– Basic: Starting at $49/month for up to 500 members
– Plus: Starting at $99/month for up to 1,000 members
– Pro: Custom pricing for organizations with over 1,000 members
Some key stats about Membership Toolkit include:
– Over 3,000 customers worldwide
– integrated website builder included
– Mobile apps available for both iOS and Android
– 24/7 phone and email support
6. ChurchTrac
ChurchTrac is church management software created specifically for churches. It has been helping churches manage their members, groups, finances, events and more since 2001. With over 14,000 churches using ChurchTrac, it is one of the most popular and trusted church management systems available.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of ChurchTrac include:
– Flexible platform that scales with a church’s needs
– Integrated finance and accounting modules to manage all church financial data in one place
– Powerful customization and reporting tools to analyze attendance, giving and other church data
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the more advanced features and customizations require paying for a higher pricing plan. For some very small churches, the basic features may be enough but larger churches would likely need an upgraded plan to take full advantage of ChurchTrac’s functionality.
Pricing: ChurchTrac offers several pricing plans to suit churches of different sizes. The basic plan starts at $49 per month and includes features like attendance tracking, calendars and directories. The standard plan is $99 per month and adds financial management capabilities. Custom plans are also available for larger churches with more advanced needs.
Some key stats about ChurchTrac include:
– Over 14,000 churches currently use ChurchTrac worldwide
– Integrated modules for finance, accounting, attendance, small groups and more
– Flexible pricing plans starting at $49/month for the basic plan
– 24/7 support and regular software updates included with all plans
7. ACS Technologies
ACS Technologies is a leading provider of church management software. Founded in 1991, ACS has been developing church management solutions for over 30 years. Their flagship product, ACS Church Management System (ChMS), is a comprehensive platform designed to manage all aspects of large church operations.
Pros: Some key advantages of ACS Church Management System include:
– Leader in church management for over 30 years
– Comprehensive platform that can manage all facets of large, complex church operations
– Robust finance modules for managing donations, expenses and reporting
– Advanced communication and CRM tools to engage congregations
Cons: A potential disadvantage is the upfront cost, as ACS Church Management System is aimed at larger churches and has an enterprise level price point. However, they do offer customized pricing and financing options.
Pricing: Pricing for ACS Church Management System starts at $3,000 per year for their basic plan, up to $12,000 per year or more for their high-end solutions tailored for extra large churches. Custom pricing is available and they also offer seasonal sales and discounts periodically throughout the year.
Some key stats about ACS Church Management System include:
– Used by over 15,000 churches worldwide
– Supports churches with attendances of 500+ weekly
– Integrated modules for finance, reporting, events, check-in, communications and more
– Over 25 years of church management experience behind their solutions
8. Planning Center
Planning Center is one of the most popular and full-featured church management software options available. Founded in 2011 and based in San Francisco, Planning Center currently has over 10,000 churches using their platform for administration, communication, and engagement.
Pros: Some key advantages of Planning Center include:
– Most commonly used church software, providing a robust feature set
– Extensive tools for coordinating schedules, services, events and other ministries
– Easy to use interface that allows both leaders and volunteers to easily access resources
– Powerful reporting tools to analyze engagement, attendance and other metrics
Cons: A potential disadvantage is the premium pricing, as it is one of the more expensive options for larger churches. The free version also has limited functionality.
Pricing: Pricing for Planning Center ranges from $49-$299 per month depending on church size and features needed. A free option is available but has reduced functionality. Volume discounts are also offered for larger churches.
Some key stats about Planning Center include:
– Used by over 10,000 churches globally
– Integrated tools for service planning, scheduling, check-ins, small groups, events, and more
– Mobile apps available for both iOS and Android
– 24/7 phone, email and live chat support
9. ParishSoft
ParishSOFT is Catholic church management software that has been serving parishes and dioceses for over 30 years. With more than 9,000 customer installations, ParishSOFT is the most widely used church administration system in the Catholic Church.
Pros: Some key advantages of ParishSOFT include:
– Feature-rich and customizable for churches of any size
– Robust database allows detailed tracking and recordkeeping of members, sacraments, contributions and more
– Integrated financial management tools for donations, payments, payroll and accounting
Cons: One potential disadvantage is the upfront cost may be higher than some other options. However, ParishSOFT aims to offer affordable long-term pricing.
Pricing: ParishSOFT pricing starts at $1,995 for the basic level per year. Additional modules and premium support plans are available for larger churches with more advanced needs. Complete pricing information is available on the ParishSOFT website.
Some key stats about ParishSOFT include:
– More than 9,000 parishes and 185+ dioceses currently use ParishSOFT
– Supports over 40 languages for multicultural churches
– Has a dedicated customer support team available by phone and email
– Regularly updates the software with new features and enhancements
10. Churchteams
Churchteams is a church management software created to help streamline operations and communication for churches. Founded in 2014, Churchteams aims to provide affordable and easy-to-use tools to manage people, groups, online giving and more.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of Churchteams include:
– Affordable entry-level solution suitable for most smaller churches
– Simple tools for managing basic church operations like membership, groups, scheduling and tasks
– Easy to use interface that allows churches to get up and running quickly
Cons: A potential disadvantage is the more limited feature set of the basic plan compared to more robust church management software. Some advanced features like check-in systems, room booking and event registrations are not included in the basic plan.
Pricing: Churchteams offers three pricing tiers:
– Basic: Starts at $99/month for up to 250 members
– Plus: $199/month for up to 500 members
– Pro: Custom pricing for larger churches with premium features and support
Some key stats about Churchteams include:
– Used by over 2,500 churches worldwide
– Starts at $99/month for the basic plan
– Integrates with online giving platforms like Pushpay
– Mobile apps available for task management and directory on the go
11. Percipio
Percipio by Skillsoft is a leading SaaS-based church management software tool that helps churches streamline operations and better engage with their congregations. Used by over 5,000 churches worldwide, Percipio offers a powerful yet easy-to-use platform for tasks like member management, financial reporting, event registration, small groups, and more.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of Percipio church management software include:
– Powerful yet user-friendly interface that is easy for both staff and volunteers to learn
– Robust communication features for email newsletters, mass texting, Facebook events
– Integration with worship presentation software like ProPresenter
– Extensive small group and discipleship tools for organizing bible studies and events
Cons: One potential downside is the higher pricing compared to some other church management solutions. However, Percipio aims to offer more advanced functionality to justify the cost.
Pricing: Percipio pricing starts at $99 per month for the basic Starter plan suited for smaller churches. Most churches opt for the Standard ($149/mo) or Premium ($249/mo) plans which provide additional features and support for larger congregations and teams.
Some key stats about Percipio include:
– Used in over 50 countries worldwide
– Serves churches of all sizes from small startups to mega-churches with 10,000+ members
– integrates with common tools like Slack, MailChimp, MemberPress, and more
– 98% customer retention rate
12. Church Community Builder
Church Community Builder (CCB) is church management software that helps churches manage their members, communicate effectively, and run their ministries. Founded in 1998, CCB is one of the largest and most full-featured church management platforms, serving over 15,000 churches globally. Their software allows churches to manage their entire ministry on one secure and easy-to-use platform.
Pros: Some key advantages of Church Community Builder include:
– Feature-rich platform for churches of all sizes
– Robust event/small group management and registration tools
– Strong communication tools like email marketing, text messaging, and online directories
– Integrations with various apps and services needed by churches
– Affordable pricing for churches of all budget sizes
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the interface can require some learning and getting used to for new users, as there are many features and options to navigate.
Pricing: Church Community Builder offers several affordable pricing tiers to suit churches of all sizes. Starting packages begin as low as $49 per month for basic capabilities. Mid-range and premium packages are also available and provide additional features and support for larger congregations.
Some key stats about Church Community Builder include:
– Over 15,000 churches globally use CCB
– Available in over 30 languages
– Integrates with over 200 apps including text messaging, email, and accounting software
– 24/7 phone and chat support
13. ChurchWindows
ChurchWindows is church management software that has been helping churches manage their operations and congregation for over 30 years. Originally founded in 1991, ChurchWindows provides an all-in-one platform to handle the various administrative, communicative, and financial needs of a church.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of ChurchWindows include:
– Trusted platform that has been helping churches for over 3 decades
– Comprehensive feature set to handle all church operations and management needs
– Robust financial and accounting tools for managing donations, expenses, and reporting
– Intuitive communication tools for events, groups, directories and more
– Flexible options for customizing workflows to suit each church’s processes
Cons: A potential disadvantage is the upfront investment required, as ChurchWindows plans start at $2,500 annually which may not suit smaller churches or those on tighter budgets.
Pricing: ChurchWindows offers annual subscription plans starting at $2,500 per year for the basic Starter plan, which allows for integration of finances, communication and ministry management for a single site church. Additional fee tiers are available for churches with multiple sites or additional users/features.
Some key stats about ChurchWindows include:
– Used by over 15,000 churches worldwide
– 30+ years of experience serving the church community
– Robust set of financial tools for accounting and bookkeeping
– User-friendly interface that can be accessed via website or mobile app
14. Churchbox
Churchbox is an all-in-one church management software that helps churches of all sizes manage their administration, communication, events, groups, scheduling and more in one easy-to-use platform. Founded in 2014, Churchbox has grown to serve over 5,000 churches internationally.
Pros: Some key advantages of Churchbox include:
– All-in-one platform that handles various church administration and communication needs
– Intuitive interface that is easy for volunteers and staff to learn and use
– Robust event and group management tools for organizing church programs
– Strong communication features like email marketing and text messaging
– Integrates well with popular tools like Pushpay for online giving
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the increased functionality may result in a steeper learning curve for smaller churches compared to more basic options.
Pricing: Churchbox offers several paid plans starting at $49/month for the Basic plan up to $199/month for the largest Enterprise plan. They also offer a generous free trial and starter plan for smaller churches just getting started.
Some key stats about Churchbox include:
– Used by over 5,000 churches globally
– Offers a free trial and starter plan for smaller churches
– Integrates with platforms like Pushpay, Planning Center, and Church Community Builder
– Named one of the best church management software options by Capterra in 2023
15. Ministry Platform
Ministry Platform is a leading church management software developed by Ministry Digital and used by over 7,000 churches globally. The software provides a full suite of tools to manage all aspects of church administration and ministry.
Pros: Some key advantages of Ministry Platform include:
– Full suite of church management features in one central system like member tracking, scheduling, online giving etc.
– Integrated online giving module allowing donations to be processed securely
– Robust calendar and scheduling options to manage church events and activities
– Flexible configuration options to customize the solution for any church size and structure
Cons: A potential disadvantage is the monthly subscription pricing model which requires ongoing costs compared to a one-time purchase of an on-premise solution.
Pricing: Ministry Platform pricing starts at $99 per month for the basic Starter plan, increasing to $299 per month for the standard plan and $499 per month for larger churches and customized enterprise plans. All plans require an annual contract and payment is required monthly via credit card.
Some key stats about Ministry Platform include:
– Used by over 7,000 churches worldwide
– Over 20 years of experience developing church software
– Integrations available with over 150 partners
– Hosted securely in the cloud with regular software updates
– 24/7 support and training available
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all solution, so evaluating options carefully based on your ministry’s unique workflows and goals is important. We hope this comprehensive comparison of the top 15 church management software gives you greater clarity in your selection process. Don’t hesitate to test multiple demo versions and talk to current users to determine the best fit. With the right tools, your staff can focus more on ministry versus administration.