Comparative Analysis of Leading Church Management Software
By Jordan Patel | Published: 2025-02-28 | Category: Church Management Software
About Church Management Software
Church management software (ChMS) provides tools for religious organizations to manage membership databases, track donations, coordinate events and volunteers, facilitate communication, and streamline administrative operations. These platforms centralize key church functions into a digital system.
Scoring Criteria
- → Features
- → Ease of Use
- → Support
- → Value
- → Integrations
The Best Church Management Software
#10
Blackbaud Church Management
By Blackbaud
An enterprise-level solution from a major non-profit software provider, offering deep functionality across CRM, financials, and marketing.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Large Churches and Dioceses, Organizations needing enterprise-level features, Churches already using Blackbaud products
Key Features
- ✓Unified Profile: Comprehensive constituent relationship management (CRM) features. (Core)
- ✓Fund Accounting: Integrated church-specific fund accounting (often Blackbaud Financial Edge NXT). (Integrated Add-on)
- ✓Online Giving & Payments: Integrated payment processing and donation management. (Core)
- ✓Marketing & Communications: Advanced email marketing and communication tools. (Core)
- ✓Analytics & Reporting: Sophisticated reporting and data analysis capabilities. (Advanced)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom Quote
$500.00 / Monthly
- Enterprise-level features tailored to the organization.
- Requires consultation and custom quote.
Limitations: Significantly more expensive than most other ChMS., Complex implementation process., Pricing is not transparent.
Pros
- + Extremely powerful and feature-rich, true enterprise solution.
- + Deep integration with Blackbaud's financial and fundraising tools.
- + Scalable for very large organizations and dioceses.
- + Advanced analytics and reporting.
Cons
- - Very expensive; high total cost of ownership.
- - Complex to implement and learn.
- - User interface can be overwhelming.
- - Overkill for most small to medium churches.
Verdict
"An enterprise-grade platform suited for large, complex church organizations or dioceses with significant budgets and needs, particularly those already in the Blackbaud ecosystem."
#9
Elvanto
By Tithe.ly
A powerful and comprehensive web-based ChMS, now part of the Tithe.ly ecosystem, known for customization and workflow automation.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Medium to Large Churches, Churches needing customization, Organizations focused on volunteer and service planning
Key Features
- ✓People Management: Customizable member database, groups, forms, and access permissions. (Core)
- ✓Service Planning: Detailed service outlining, volunteer scheduling, song library. (Advanced)
- ✓Volunteer Management: Rostering, unavailability tracking, communication tools. (Advanced)
- ✓Reporting: Build custom reports and dashboards. (Advanced)
- ✓Check-In: Secure system for children and events. (Core)
- ✓Financials: Contribution tracking and integration with giving platforms. (Core)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.1 / 10.0)
Pricing
Bundled with Tithe.ly
$119.00 / Monthly
- Elvanto's ChMS features are now primarily accessed via the Tithe.ly All Access plan.
- Includes giving, communication, apps, etc.
Limitations: Standalone Elvanto pricing may no longer be widely available., Price scales based on church size (attendance).
Pros
- + Highly customizable fields, forms, and reports.
- + Strong service planning and volunteer management features.
- + Good workflow automation capabilities.
- + Now integrated within the broader Tithe.ly platform.
Cons
- - Can have a steeper learning curve due to customization.
- - User interface can be dense.
- - Primarily available through the Tithe.ly bundle, potentially increasing cost for those not needing all Tithe.ly features.
Verdict
"A powerful and customizable ChMS, especially strong in service/volunteer planning, now best accessed via the Tithe.ly bundle."
#8
Servant Keeper
By Servant PC Resources Inc.
A long-standing ChMS available in both cloud and locally installed desktop versions, known for robust data management and support.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, Desktop (Windows), iOS, Android
Best For: Small to Large Churches, Churches preferring desktop software option, Churches valuing strong data import/export
Key Features
- ✓Membership Tracking: Detailed member profiles, family relationships, group management. (Core)
- ✓Contribution Management: Track giving, pledges, generate statements, online giving options. (Core)
- ✓Attendance & Check-In: Track attendance for services and groups, secure check-in system. (Core)
- ✓Reporting: Wide array of standard and customizable reports. (Core)
- ✓Cloud & Desktop Options: Flexibility to choose between cloud-hosted or local installation. (Platform Choice)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
Cloud Subscription
$59.99 / Monthly
- Cloud-hosted version, includes mobile apps.
- Price based on number of 'households' or records (starting price).
Limitations: Cost increases based on database size., Add-on modules (like advanced reporting) may cost extra.
Local Install Purchase
$399.00 / One-time
- One-time purchase for desktop software license.
- Data stored locally.
Limitations: Requires local installation and maintenance., Cloud features/mobile access typically require ongoing fees or cloud subscription.
Pros
- + Offers both cloud and desktop versions.
- + Strong customer support reputation.
- + Robust data management and reporting features.
- + Established product with long history.
Cons
- - Desktop interface can feel dated.
- - Cloud pricing scales with database size.
- - Fewer modern web integrations compared to cloud-native platforms.
Verdict
"A solid choice for churches that value data control (desktop option) or appreciate strong support, offering robust core features."
#7
ChurchTrac
By ChurchTrac Software
An affordable, web-based ChMS offering core features plus extras like worship planning and website integration, targeting small to medium churches.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small to Medium Churches, Budget-conscious churches, Churches needing integrated website/ChMS features
Key Features
- ✓People Management: Membership database, group management, attendance tracking. (Core)
- ✓Giving: Contribution tracking, online giving integration, statements. (Core)
- ✓Scheduling: Volunteer and event scheduling tools. (Core)
- ✓Communication: Email and text messaging capabilities. (Core)
- ✓Worship Planning: Tools for planning services and managing song libraries. (Included)
- ✓Website Builder: Option to create and host a church website integrated with ChMS data. (Add-on/Tiered)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free
Contact Vendor
- Basic features for up to 75 names.
Limitations: Limited number of records., Reduced feature set.
Standard
$17.00 / Monthly
- Core ChMS features, unlimited names, basic online giving.
- Price scales based on features needed, not names (starting price).
Limitations: Worship planning, advanced child check-in are in higher tiers.
Plus
$37.00 / Monthly
- Adds Worship Planning, advanced Check-in, Facility Management.
- Price scales based on features needed (starting price).
Limitations: Website builder may have additional costs.
Pros
- + Very affordable pricing structure.
- + Good range of core features for the price.
- + Includes worship planning features in higher tiers.
- + Relatively easy to use.
Cons
- - User interface is functional but not as polished as some.
- - Fewer integrations compared to larger platforms.
- - Advanced features are less deep than specialized competitors.
Verdict
"An excellent value proposition, particularly for smaller churches needing a solid set of core ChMS and worship planning tools without a large budget."
#6
FellowshipOne
By Ministry Brands
An established, comprehensive ChMS platform offering extensive features for church administration, member management, and financials.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Medium to Large Churches, Multi-site churches, Churches needing detailed reporting and integrations
Key Features
- ✓Member Database: Centralized database for individuals, families, groups, and communication. (Core)
- ✓Contribution Management: Tracks giving, manages pledges, provides statements, integrates online giving. (Core)
- ✓Check-In: Secure system for children's ministry and event check-ins. (Core)
- ✓Event Management: Tools for planning, registration, and resource scheduling. (Core)
- ✓Reporting: Extensive standard and customizable reporting options. (Advanced)
- ✓Integrations: Part of the Ministry Brands ecosystem, offering various integrations. (Core)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
FellowshipOne Go (Simpler Version)
$179.00 / Monthly
- Core ChMS features for smaller/mid-sized churches.
- Web-based.
Limitations: Less feature-rich than the Premier version., Pricing may scale with size.
FellowshipOne Premier (Full Version)
$400.00 / Monthly
- Full suite of features, often requires custom quote.
- More robust reporting and customization.
Limitations: Higher cost, geared towards larger organizations., Can be complex.
Pros
- + Very comprehensive feature set, especially in Premier.
- + Powerful reporting capabilities.
- + Established platform with a large user base.
- + Integrates with other Ministry Brands products.
Cons
- - Can be expensive.
- - Interface feels less modern than some competitors.
- - Steeper learning curve.
- - Customer support experiences can vary.
Verdict
"A powerful, albeit complex and potentially costly, solution for medium to large churches needing extensive features and reporting."
#5
Church Community Builder
By Pushpay
A comprehensive and feature-rich ChMS designed for engagement, administration, and growth, often favored by larger churches.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Medium to Large Churches, Multi-site Churches, Churches focused on process queues and engagement pathways
Key Features
- ✓People Management: In-depth member profiles, relationship tracking, groups, and customizable fields. (Core)
- ✓Process Queues: Automated workflows for assimilation, follow-up, and care processes. (Advanced)
- ✓Volunteer Scheduling: Sophisticated volunteer management and scheduling tools. (Core)
- ✓Financial Management: Contribution tracking, online giving (via Pushpay integration), pledge campaigns. (Core/Integrated)
- ✓Check-In & Attendance: Secure check-in, attendance tracking for events and groups. (Core)
- ✓Communication Tools: Email, text messaging, mail merge capabilities. (Core)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom Quote
$300.00 / Monthly
- Pricing is typically custom quoted based on church size, features needed, and contract length.
- Often bundled with Pushpay giving.
Limitations: Generally considered one of the more expensive options., Pricing not transparently listed.
Pros
- + Extremely powerful and feature-rich.
- + Excellent for managing complex processes and workflows.
- + Strong volunteer management capabilities.
- + Tight integration with Pushpay giving platform.
Cons
- - Can be expensive, especially for smaller churches.
- - Steeper learning curve due to complexity.
- - User interface can feel dated compared to newer platforms.
- - Requires custom quote for pricing.
Verdict
"A top-tier, comprehensive solution best suited for larger churches with complex organizational needs and the budget to match."
#4
Realm
By ACS Technologies
A unified ChMS platform from a long-standing vendor, offering features for administration, community engagement, and accounting.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Medium to Large Churches, Churches needing integrated accounting, Established denominations
Key Features
- ✓Membership Management: Robust profiles, group management, pastoral care tracking, and directories. (Core)
- ✓Giving & Finance: Online giving, contribution management, and optional integrated church accounting. (Core/Add-on)
- ✓Community Engagement: Member portal ('Connect'), communication tools, event management. (Core)
- ✓Check-In: Secure check-in for children and volunteers. (Core)
- ✓Reporting & Analytics: Detailed reporting on membership, attendance, and financials. (Core)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
Realm Inform (Base)
$30.00 / Monthly
- Basic membership tracking, check-in, communication.
- Price based on average weekly attendance (starting price shown).
Limitations: Lacks online giving, advanced group features, workflows.
Realm Connect
$50.00 / Monthly
- Adds online giving, member portal, group management.
- Price based on average weekly attendance (starting price shown).
Limitations: Does not include integrated accounting.
Realm Accounting
$89.00 / Monthly
- Adds integrated fund accounting features.
- Price based on average weekly attendance (starting price shown).
Limitations: Higher cost, more complex.
Pros
- + Comprehensive feature set, especially with accounting module.
- + Strong reporting capabilities.
- + Backed by an experienced vendor (ACS Technologies).
- + Good community engagement tools.
Cons
- - Can be more expensive, pricing scales significantly with attendance.
- - User interface can be less intuitive than simpler options.
- - Some features require higher tiers.
Verdict
"A robust, feature-rich platform ideal for mid-sized to large churches needing strong administrative and potentially integrated accounting features."
#3
Tithe.ly Church Management
By Tithe.ly
An all-in-one platform combining giving tools with comprehensive ChMS features, including features from the acquired Elvanto.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small to Large Churches, Churches focused on digital giving, All-in-one platform seekers
Key Features
- ✓People Management: Manage member database, track attendance, and organize groups. (Core)
- ✓Digital Giving: Robust online, text, kiosk, and app-based giving options. (Core)
- ✓Communication Hub: Email, text messaging, and in-app communication tools. (Core)
- ✓Service Planning: Plan services, schedule volunteers, and manage worship flows. (Core)
- ✓Event Management: Create events, manage registrations, and handle check-ins. (Core)
- ✓Church Apps: Option for custom-branded mobile apps. (Add-on/Tiered)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.4 / 10.0)
Pricing
Free Giving
Contact Vendor
- Basic online giving tools
Limitations: Transaction fees apply., Does not include full ChMS features.
All Access
$119.00 / Monthly
- Includes Giving, ChMS (Elvanto features), Communication tools, Website builder, Apps.
- Price scales based on church size (attendance).
Limitations: Base price is for smaller churches; cost increases with size., Transaction fees still apply to giving.
Pros
- + Comprehensive feature set in the 'All Access' plan.
- + Strong focus and execution on digital giving.
- + Incorporates powerful Elvanto features.
- + Potentially good value if using most features.
Cons
- - Pricing scales with church size.
- - User interface can feel complex due to the breadth of features.
- - Some features originated from acquired products (Elvanto).
Verdict
"A powerful, all-in-one option, especially strong for churches prioritizing digital giving and wanting a wide range of tools under one roof."
#2
Breeze ChMS
By Breeze
Web-based ChMS focused on simplicity and ease of use, particularly suited for small to medium-sized churches.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small to Medium Churches, Churches prioritizing ease of use, Simple Membership & Giving Tracking
Key Features
- ✓Member Management: Store and organize member information with custom fields and tagging. (Core)
- ✓Contribution Tracking: Track donations, generate statements, and manage online giving. (Core)
- ✓Event Management: Schedule events, manage attendance, and utilize check-in features. (Core)
- ✓Communication Tools: Send emails and text messages to groups or individuals. (Core)
- ✓Volunteer Management: Schedule and communicate with volunteers. (Core)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.7 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard
$72.00 / Monthly
- All features included
- Unlimited users
- Unlimited members/records
- Free support and data migration assistance
Limitations: Text messaging and online giving have additional per-use costs.
Pros
- + Extremely easy to learn and use.
- + Simple, affordable flat-rate pricing.
- + Excellent customer support.
- + Includes core ChMS functionalities effectively.
Cons
- - Fewer advanced features compared to larger platforms.
- - Limited customization options.
- - Integrations are somewhat limited.
Verdict
"Ideal for small to mid-sized churches seeking an affordable, user-friendly solution with excellent support."
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#1
Planning Center
By Ministry Centered Technologies
A modular, web-based ChMS allowing churches to pick and choose applications like Check-Ins, Giving, People, Registrations, Services, and more.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small to Large Churches, Multi-site Churches, Worship Planning Focus, Volunteer Coordination
Key Features
- ✓People (Membership): Central database for member information, groups, and workflow management. (Core)
- ✓Giving: Online donation processing, pledge tracking, and financial reporting. (Add-on Module)
- ✓Services: Robust worship service planning, scheduling volunteers, and managing resources. (Add-on Module)
- ✓Check-Ins: Secure child check-in system for events and services. (Add-on Module)
- ✓Groups: Management of small groups, attendance tracking, and member communication. (Add-on Module)
- ✓Registrations: Event registration management with payment processing. (Add-on Module)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Modular Pricing
Contact Vendor
- Free tiers available for most modules with limitations.
- Pay only for the modules and usage levels needed.
Limitations: Free tiers have significant limits on features or capacity., Cost can increase substantially as modules/usage are added.
Example Bundle (Small Church)
$100.00 / Monthly
- People, Check-Ins, Giving, Groups (example starter levels)
Limitations: Price varies significantly based on specific modules and usage tiers chosen.
Pros
- + Highly flexible modular approach.
- + Deep functionality within each module, especially Services.
- + Modern user interface.
- + Robust mobile apps.
Cons
- - Can become expensive as more modules are added.
- - Some desired features might span multiple paid modules.
- - Learning curve for advanced features.
Verdict
"Excellent choice for churches wanting flexibility and strong worship planning tools, though costs can scale."
Final Thoughts
The Church Management Software landscape offers diverse options catering to different church sizes, priorities, and budgets. Leading solutions range from highly flexible modular platforms like Planning Center, user-friendly options like Breeze ChMS, affordable choices like ChurchTrac, and comprehensive enterprise systems like Blackbaud Church Management. Key decision factors include required features (giving, worship planning, accounting), ease of use, scalability, support quality, and overall cost.