How Much Does an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Cost? A Comprehensive Breakdown

Navigating the world of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding the costs involved. With prices ranging from $0 to over $125,000 annually, it’s essential to know what you’re getting for your money. Let’s dive deep into the cost structures and factors influencing ATS pricing.

ATS Pricing by Business Size

1. Small Business (<100 employees):
   • Cost Range: $250 – $3,000/year
   • Pricing Model: Paying per user or per vacancy is most suitable for small businesses with limited hiring needs.
2. Medium-Sized Business (100-500 employees):
   • Cost Range: $3,000 – $15,000/year
   • Pricing Model: Paying per user is ideal if only specific stakeholders access the tool. A flat rate can also be effective to avoid exceeding user or vacancy limits.
3. Large Business (500-5,000 employees):
   • Cost Range: $15,000 – $50,000+/year
   • Pricing Model: Pricing is sensitive to features and integrations needed to accommodate existing hiring processes.
4. Enterprise (5,000+ employees):
   • Cost Range: $125,000+/year
   • Pricing Model: Multi-year contracts with a flat rate are common.

ATS Vendor Price Comparison

Software	Pricing Model
Pinpoint	Starts at $5,000/year (exact pricing not disclosed upfront)
Greenhouse	Starts at $6,000/year for around a dozen employees (exact pricing not disclosed upfront)
Teamtailor	Flexible pricing based on employee count, starting at $100/month
Recruitee	Offers three plans: Launch at $222/month and Scale at $399/month
RecruiterBox	Varies by employee count. A 10-person company pays $199/month (billed annually) for the Starter plan
Freshteam	Free for up to 50 employees, then starts at $50/month per 50 users (billed annually)
GoHire	Priced between £40 and £165/month after a two-week free trial
Zoho Recruit	Ranges from $30 to $90/user/month, with a free plan available
Recooty	Offers a free plan for single users, $29/month for basic features, and $49/month for up to 25 users

Note: Prices are based on online information and are subject to change.

Why Do ATS Pricing Models Vary?

ATS vendors tailor their rates based on factors like business size, job openings, integrations, and modules. Common pricing models include:

• Flat Rate: A single amount regardless of user count, ideal for large enterprises.
• Pay Per User: Charges based on the number of admin users, suitable for smaller companies.
• Pay Per Vacancy: Charges based on active job postings, ideal for businesses with low hiring volumes.
• Pay Per Module: Charges when the ATS is part of a larger platform, like a CRM or onboarding tool.

Potential Additional Costs

Beyond the basic pricing, there are potential additional costs:

• Support: Costs related to implementation, training, and customer/tech support.
• Additional Features: Bespoke solutions or features like background checks can add to the cost.

Securing the Best ATS Price

All ATS vendor quotes are negotiable, especially for long-term contracts. To secure the best deal:

1. Know Your Needs: Understand which features, modules, and integrations are essential.
2. Ask the Right Questions: During vendor demos, inquire about pricing models, additional costs, and payment options.
3. Evaluate Multiple Vendors: Compare costs and potentially leverage competition for better deals.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances of ATS pricing can ensure you get the best value for your investment. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can make an informed decision tailored to your business needs and budget.