Running a service business means juggling a million things—scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, customer communication—the list goes on. Finding the right field service management (FSM) software can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Two popular contenders often top the list: Jobber and Housecall Pro. This detailed Jobber vs. Housecall Pro comparison breaks down their core features, pricing, user experience, and more, helping you choose the perfect platform to streamline your operations and grow your business.

We'll cover everything from scheduling and dispatching to customer relationship management (CRM), reporting, and integrations, so you can make an informed decision. Plus, we'll explore alternative solutions if neither Jobber nor Housecall Pro quite fits your needs.

Key takeaways

• Match software to your priorities: Jobber excels at user-friendliness and detailed client records, while Housecall Pro shines with robust invoicing and payments. Choose the platform that best aligns with your business needs.
  
  

• Industry fit influences your choice: Landscaping and cleaning services often find Jobber's simplicity appealing, while HVAC and plumbing businesses may prefer Housecall Pro's specialized tools. Select the software that caters to your industry's specific demands.
  
  

• Plan for growth and budget wisely: Consider your current and future needs, including team size and expansion plans. Balance essential features with affordability, exploring alternative solutions if Jobber or Housecall Pro don't quite fit.
  
  
  

What is field service management software?

Field service management (FSM) software helps businesses manage off-site operations like installations, repairs, and maintenance—anything requiring a team in the field. FSM software streamlines many moving parts, from scheduling and dispatching to tracking your team and equipment. It's a game-changer for efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Think of FSM software as a central hub. Salesforce describes it as a digital tool optimizing everything from scheduling and dispatching to customer communication and asset management. Centralizing these functions simplifies coordinating your team and resources, as ServiceNow explains. Plus, robust FSM software integrates data from various sources—like your asset management system and your team's mobile devices—for a complete view of field operations, according to IBM. This data integration is key for leveraging technology to improve your field services.

Jobber: An overview

Jobber is a popular field service management software designed to streamline operations for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers a suite of tools to manage everything from scheduling and quoting to invoicing and customer communication. Known for its user-friendly interface, Jobber aims to simplify administrative tasks so you can focus on growing your business. But is it the right fit for your operation? Let's take a closer look.

Key features

Jobber provides a comprehensive set of features covering most aspects of running a field service business. Its estimating tools are designed for easy quote creation, helping you present professional proposals to potential clients. Jobber's scheduling features offer real-time updates, allowing you to stay on top of your team's activities. However, it's worth noting that competitors like Housecall Pro emphasize a drag-and-drop calendar interface, which some users may find more visually intuitive. Jobber's customer relationship management (CRM) capabilities are praised for detailed record-keeping, allowing you to maintain a thorough history of client interactions. Finally, Jobber shines in its workflow automation, offering advanced and customizable options to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up your time for more important matters. You can explore more about Jobber's key features on their website.

Pricing

Jobber offers tiered pricing plans to accommodate businesses of different sizes and needs. The pricing structure is generally considered transparent, with clear outlines of what each plan includes. Currently, Jobber offers Core, Connect, and Grow plans, starting at $39/month for the Core plan and scaling up to $349/month for Grow. Annual subscriptions typically come with a discount. While Jobber's starting price is competitive, it's important to consider which features are included in each tier. Some features, like online booking and automated messages, may require a higher-tier plan. TechnologyAdvice provides a helpful comparison of Jobber and Housecall Pro's pricing and features.

User experience

Jobber is widely recognized for its user-friendly interface, making it a popular choice for businesses new to field service software. Many users appreciate the intuitive design and ease of getting started. However, some users, particularly solo operators, have mentioned that the higher-tier plans can become expensive as you access more advanced features. It's essential to weigh the cost against the value provided by those features for your specific business. BuildBite offers further insights into user experiences and comparisons with other platforms.

Housecall Pro: An overview

Housecall Pro is a popular field service management software designed to streamline operations for businesses with technicians in the field. It aims to simplify everything from scheduling and dispatching to invoicing and payments. Let's take a closer look.

Core features

Housecall Pro offers a comprehensive suite of features covering various aspects of running a field service business. Their scheduling and dispatching tools allow you to easily book jobs, manage recurring appointments, and assign technicians. You can also communicate with both your team and customers in real time, keeping everyone informed and reducing miscommunication. The platform simplifies creating estimates and converting them to jobs once approved. You can generate professional invoices directly within the platform and accept various payment methods—credit cards, debit cards, ACH transfers, cash, and checks—offering flexibility for everyone. Housecall Pro emphasizes simplifying complex workflows so you can focus on delivering excellent service.

Pricing

Housecall Pro offers tiered pricing to accommodate different business sizes and needs. The Basic plan starts at $65 per month, providing core features for smaller operations. The Essential plan, at $169 per month, offers additional features for growing businesses. For larger enterprises with more complex requirements, Housecall Pro offers a Max plan with custom pricing available upon request. Annual plans typically come with a discount. A 14-day free trial lets you explore the platform before committing.

User experience

Housecall Pro is generally considered user-friendly and praised for its straightforward approach to field service management. It's particularly well-suited for growing businesses in industries like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work, where efficient scheduling and communication are essential. The platform's intuitive design makes it easy to learn, even for those less tech-savvy. Reviews often highlight its ease of use, allowing technicians and office staff to quickly adapt and use the software effectively.

Jobber vs. Housecall Pro: Feature comparison

This section compares Jobber and Housecall Pro across key features, helping you decide which platform best suits your field service business.

Scheduling and dispatching

Both Jobber and Housecall Pro offer robust scheduling and dispatching tools. Housecall Pro’s drag-and-drop calendar is visually appealing and easy to use, simplifying appointment management. Jobber provides real-time updates, keeping your team informed about schedule changes and customer locations. The best choice depends on your preference for visual scheduling versus real-time information. If a user-friendly visual calendar is important, consider Housecall Pro. If keeping your team updated on the go is critical, Jobber might be a better fit.

Customer relationship management (CRM)

Jobber and Housecall Pro both excel at CRM. While both platforms effectively store customer information, Jobber is known for its detailed client records, helpful for understanding client history and preferences. If in-depth client profiles are a priority, explore Jobber’s CRM features. However, if you need a broader suite of business management tools, Housecall Pro is a strong contender. You can learn more about Housecall Pro's features on their website.

Invoicing and payments

Housecall Pro shines when it comes to invoicing and payments. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools, allowing you to create custom estimates, convert them to jobs, send professional invoices, and accept various payment methods. This streamlined process simplifies financial management. While Jobber also offers invoicing and payment features, Housecall Pro’s comprehensive approach may be more appealing for businesses seeking a robust financial management solution within their field service software.

Mobile app

Both Jobber and Housecall Pro offer mobile apps to manage your business on the go. However, Jobber’s app is generally considered more user-friendly, a significant advantage for field service businesses, as team members often rely heavily on mobile access. If ease of mobile use is a top priority, explore Jobber’s mobile app.

Reporting and analytics

When it comes to reporting and analytics, both platforms offer valuable insights into your business performance. Housecall Pro provides extensive reporting options, covering various aspects of your operations. However, Jobber’s reports are generally considered more customizable, allowing you to tailor the data to your specific needs. Choose Housecall Pro for a wide range of pre-built reports, or Jobber for more flexibility in data analysis. You can research Housecall Pro's reporting features to see if they meet your needs.

Which industries benefit most?

Both Jobber and Housecall Pro cater to a variety of service industries, but each shines in slightly different areas. Understanding these nuances can help you choose the best fit for your specific business needs.

Landscaping and lawn care

For landscapers, efficiency is key. Jobber excels in this area, offering streamlined scheduling, invoicing, and customer communication features. This makes it a popular choice for lawn care professionals constantly juggling multiple jobs and clients. Its scalability also means it works well for businesses of all sizes, from solopreneurs just starting out to established companies with larger teams. As one review notes, Jobber's "ease of use and scalability [make] it a strong choice for landscaping professionals." For those focused on growth, Jobber offers resources to help you get more landscaping clients.

HVAC and plumbing

Housecall Pro often emerges as the preferred option for HVAC and plumbing businesses. Its intuitive interface and industry-specific features, like on-the-go estimates and real-time dispatching, resonate with the fast-paced nature of these trades. According to one comparison, Housecall Pro "is best for growing businesses, especially in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical." Its focus on mobile functionality allows technicians to access critical information and communicate with clients directly from the field. You can explore more about Housecall Pro's features on their website.

Cleaning services

Cleaning businesses, much like landscapers, often find Jobber's simplicity and scalability appealing. The platform's customer management tools help keep track of recurring appointments and client preferences, crucial for maintaining consistent service. Jobber's focus on "ease of use and scalability allows cleaning service providers to manage their operations effectively," making it a practical choice for this industry. If you're interested in learning more about managing a cleaning business, Jobber offers helpful resources.

General contracting

While both platforms offer features for contractors, Jobber tends to be a more suitable fit for general contracting businesses. Its project management capabilities, including time tracking and client communication tools, align well with the complexities of managing various construction projects. Jobber provides "tools that help manage projects, track time, and communicate with clients," supporting the specific needs of the construction industry. You can find more details about Jobber's features for contractors on their website.

Integrations and customization

As a busy service business owner, you rely on different tools to manage everything from accounting to marketing. Seamless integrations between your field service software and other apps are crucial for a smooth, efficient workflow. This section compares Jobber and Housecall Pro's integration and customization capabilities, helping you choose the platform that best fits your existing tech stack.

Jobber integrations

Jobber offers a range of integrations with popular business tools. This allows you to connect Jobber with apps you're already using, streamlining tasks like accounting, payment processing, and marketing. For example, integrating with QuickBooks eliminates manual data entry, saving you time and reducing errors. Connecting with Mailchimp lets you manage email marketing campaigns directly from Jobber. This flexibility ensures your field service software works seamlessly within your existing operations.

Housecall Pro integrations

Housecall Pro also provides a variety of integrations, many included even in their basic plan. This gives you the power to enhance your workflow with additional tools as your business grows. Like Jobber, Housecall Pro integrates with QuickBooks for simplified accounting. They also offer integrations with Google Local Services, allowing you to manage leads and bookings directly from the platform. This broad range of integrations makes it easy to tailor Housecall Pro to your specific business needs, scaling your tech stack simply as TechnologyAdvice points out.

Customization options

Beyond integrations, customizing your software is essential for maximizing efficiency. Jobber is known for its advanced, customizable workflow automation, allowing you to tailor the software to your specific processes. This level of customization, praised by BuildBite, can significantly improve your team's productivity and overall user experience. Automating tasks like sending appointment reminders or follow-up emails frees up your time to focus on other aspects of your business.

Housecall Pro offers 33 customizable reports. This detailed reporting functionality, as noted by TechnologyAdvice, provides valuable insights into your business performance. You can track key metrics like revenue, job profitability, and technician performance, empowering you to make data-driven decisions.

User reviews and satisfaction

Understanding what actual users think about a software platform is crucial before committing your business. Let's look at what customers are saying about both Jobber and Housecall Pro.

Jobber reviews

Jobber consistently receives praise for its user-friendly interface. Small business owners appreciate how easy it is to learn and manage, which is a huge plus when you're juggling multiple responsibilities. Its broader international presence makes it a good option for businesses looking to expand globally. Review sites like Capterra and G2 reflect this positive feedback, with Jobber scoring 4.5 stars on both platforms, based on hundreds of reviews.

Housecall Pro reviews

Housecall Pro also enjoys high ratings, boasting 4.7 stars on Capterra and 4.5 stars on G2. With thousands of reviews on Capterra, it's clearly a popular choice. Users often highlight its straightforward approach, finding it a practical solution for growing businesses.

Common issues and solutions

While both platforms receive positive reviews overall, some common concerns arise. Discussions on platforms like Reddit reveal that some users, especially solo operators, find Jobber's pricing a bit steep. They may not require all the features offered and are seeking more affordable alternatives. This price sensitivity highlights the importance of carefully assessing your business requirements and team size before choosing a platform. The right choice often depends on whether you need the advanced features offered by platforms like Jobber and Housecall Pro. If you're a smaller operation, exploring other solutions might be worthwhile.

Customer support and training

When you're busy running a service business, reliable software support and efficient training are essential. Let's see how Jobber and Housecall Pro measure up.

Jobber support

Jobber is known for its user-friendly design, which simplifies getting support. Users appreciate the responsive and helpful support team who efficiently address questions and resolve issues. This customer-centric approach streamlines the support process, ensuring businesses get the help they need quickly. You can explore their support options on Jobber's support page.

Housecall Pro support

Housecall Pro offers various support channels, including live chat, email, and phone support. Users often highlight the knowledgeable support staff and their quick responses. This robust support system is especially valuable for businesses that need immediate assistance to keep operations running smoothly. Their help center offers a wealth of resources.

Onboarding and training

Both platforms offer helpful onboarding resources like tutorials and guides. Housecall Pro provides a 14-day free trial, allowing you to test the software before subscribing. Jobber emphasizes its intuitive interface for faster onboarding, helping users become proficient quickly. You can find more details on getting started with Jobber through their onboarding resources.

Choosing the right software

Picking the right field service software can feel overwhelming. But by focusing on your specific needs, scalability, and budget, you can narrow down the options and find the perfect fit.

Assess your needs

Before comparing software, map out your current processes and pain points. What’s working well, and what needs improvement? Are you struggling with scheduling, invoicing, or customer communication?

For example, if you're a growing HVAC business, prioritize features like dispatching and inventory management. Housecall Pro excels in these areas, making it a popular choice for businesses in trades like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. If you're a smaller landscaping or cleaning business, Jobber might be a better fit, with its user-friendly interface and focus on simplicity. Think about your industry and the specific daily challenges you face.

Scalability

Consider your business's future. Do you plan to expand your team or take on more clients? Choosing software that can grow with you is crucial.

Jobber is generally a good starting point for smaller teams (under 15 employees) because of its ease of use and affordability. However, some advanced features, like online booking and automated messages, require a more expensive plan. Housecall Pro is often better for larger teams (15+) because it handles more users and offers more advanced features in its standard plans.

Budget

Pricing is always a factor. Both Jobber and Housecall Pro offer tiered pricing plans, typically starting around $49/month. However, the features in each tier vary, so compare carefully. Jobber's pricing is transparent, with clearly defined features for each tier: Core, Connect, and Grow. Housecall Pro's highest tier requires contacting sales for a custom quote, which can make budgeting more complex. Factor in not just the monthly cost, but also potential add-on fees.

Alternative solutions

If neither Jobber nor Housecall Pro quite fits your needs, several other field service management software options cater to different business sizes and requirements. Let's explore a few key alternatives:

ServiceTitan

ServiceTitan is a robust platform known for its adaptability and comprehensive features, making it a popular choice for various trades. Businesses appreciate its all-in-one approach, streamlining everything from scheduling and dispatching to customer management and reporting. However, ServiceTitan's pricing can be a significant investment, and some users have mentioned concerns about price increases. If budget is a primary concern, exploring other options might be worthwhile. You can learn more about its features and pricing in this ServiceTitan review.

Workiz

Specifically designed for field service businesses, Workiz offers a user-friendly experience with essential features like scheduling, dispatching, and invoicing. Its seamless integration with various payment processors and excellent customer support make it a solid option for small to medium-sized businesses. A free trial lets you test the software before committing.

Kickserv

Kickserv prioritizes simplicity and affordability, making it an attractive option for smaller businesses or startups. Its intuitive interface and straightforward setup process allow you to quickly get up and running. The Kickserv mobile app also empowers you to manage tasks and customer interactions while you’re on the go.

mHelpDesk

mHelpDesk provides a comprehensive suite of tools for managing field service operations, including scheduling, invoicing, and customer relationship management (CRM). Its robust reporting features and customizable workflows are valuable assets for businesses seeking detailed insights and tailored processes. However, new users sometimes report a steeper learning curve. This mHelpDesk review offers a closer look at its features.

Service fusion

Service Fusion is another strong contender for service businesses, offering tools for scheduling, dispatching, and invoicing. Known for its user-friendly interface and reliable customer support, Service Fusion also integrates with various payment systems and offers helpful mobile capabilities. While it may lack some advanced features found in larger platforms, it provides a solid foundation for managing core field service operations.

Frequently asked questions

Is Jobber or Housecall Pro better for a brand new business?

If you're just starting out, Jobber's simplicity and lower starting price might be a better fit. It's easy to learn and use, even if you're not tech-savvy. However, if you anticipate rapid growth and need more robust features from the get-go, Housecall Pro's comprehensive tools might be a worthwhile investment. Consider your budget and projected growth when making your decision.

What if my business is outside the US? Does it matter which software I choose?

Jobber has a broader international presence than Housecall Pro, making it a potentially better choice for businesses outside the US or those planning to expand globally. Check each platform's website for specific countries supported and features available in your region.

I'm a solo operator. Are these platforms too expensive for me?

Some solo operators find the higher-tier plans of both Jobber and Housecall Pro pricey, especially if they don't need all the advanced features. Carefully evaluate your needs and budget. If you primarily need basic scheduling, invoicing, and customer communication, consider exploring more affordable alternatives like Kickserv or Workiz.

Which software is easier to integrate with my existing tools?

Both Jobber and Housecall Pro offer a good range of integrations with popular business apps. However, Housecall Pro includes many integrations even in its basic plan, while some Jobber integrations require a higher-tier subscription. Review the integration list for each platform to ensure it connects with the tools you currently use.

I'm not very tech-savvy. Which platform is easier to learn?

Both platforms are designed with user-friendliness in mind. However, Jobber is often praised for its intuitive interface and ease of onboarding. If you're hesitant about learning new software, Jobber might be a gentler starting point. Both platforms offer helpful resources and support to guide you through the process.