Quick Overview
- 1#1: Foundation Software - Delivers comprehensive job cost accounting, payroll, and financial management tailored specifically for construction contractors.
- 2#2: Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate - Provides robust accounting, job costing, project management, and service operations for construction and real estate firms.
- 3#3: Trimble Viewpoint Vista - Offers integrated ERP with advanced job costing, financial reporting, and accounting controls for construction enterprises.
- 4#4: CMiC - Cloud-based ERP platform unifying construction accounting, project controls, and financial management for owners and contractors.
- 5#5: Sage 100 Contractor - Streamlines job costing, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reporting for small to mid-sized construction businesses.
- 6#6: Jonas Construction Software - Integrated ERP solution for construction accounting, job management, service, and distribution with real-time financial insights.
- 7#7: Deltek ComputerEase - Cloud construction accounting software focused on job costing, AP/AR automation, and customizable financial reporting.
- 8#8: QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor - Industry-specific edition for construction job costing, estimating, invoicing, and expense tracking with scalable financial tools.
- 9#9: Epicor Construction ERP - ERP system with construction-specific accounting, inventory management, and job profitability analysis for contractors.
- 10#10: Procore Financial Management - Construction management platform with integrated budgeting, forecasting, job costing, and payment applications for project financials.
We evaluated these tools based on industry-specific functionality (including job costing, project management, and financial reporting), usability, scalability, and value, ensuring the list reflects solutions that balance robustness with practicality for contractors of all sizes.
Comparison Table
Construction cost accounting software streamlines budget tracking, expense management, and financial oversight for construction projects. This comparison table examines key tools—such as Foundation Software, Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate, Trimble Viewpoint Vista, CMiC, Sage 100 Contractor, and others—outlining their unique features, pricing structures, and strengths for various project sizes and team needs, helping readers identify the best fit for their accounting and management goals.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Foundation Software Delivers comprehensive job cost accounting, payroll, and financial management tailored specifically for construction contractors. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate Provides robust accounting, job costing, project management, and service operations for construction and real estate firms. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | Trimble Viewpoint Vista Offers integrated ERP with advanced job costing, financial reporting, and accounting controls for construction enterprises. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | CMiC Cloud-based ERP platform unifying construction accounting, project controls, and financial management for owners and contractors. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Sage 100 Contractor Streamlines job costing, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reporting for small to mid-sized construction businesses. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Jonas Construction Software Integrated ERP solution for construction accounting, job management, service, and distribution with real-time financial insights. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Deltek ComputerEase Cloud construction accounting software focused on job costing, AP/AR automation, and customizable financial reporting. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor Industry-specific edition for construction job costing, estimating, invoicing, and expense tracking with scalable financial tools. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Epicor Construction ERP ERP system with construction-specific accounting, inventory management, and job profitability analysis for contractors. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Procore Financial Management Construction management platform with integrated budgeting, forecasting, job costing, and payment applications for project financials. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 |
Delivers comprehensive job cost accounting, payroll, and financial management tailored specifically for construction contractors.
Provides robust accounting, job costing, project management, and service operations for construction and real estate firms.
Offers integrated ERP with advanced job costing, financial reporting, and accounting controls for construction enterprises.
Cloud-based ERP platform unifying construction accounting, project controls, and financial management for owners and contractors.
Streamlines job costing, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reporting for small to mid-sized construction businesses.
Integrated ERP solution for construction accounting, job management, service, and distribution with real-time financial insights.
Cloud construction accounting software focused on job costing, AP/AR automation, and customizable financial reporting.
Industry-specific edition for construction job costing, estimating, invoicing, and expense tracking with scalable financial tools.
ERP system with construction-specific accounting, inventory management, and job profitability analysis for contractors.
Construction management platform with integrated budgeting, forecasting, job costing, and payment applications for project financials.
Foundation Software
enterpriseDelivers comprehensive job cost accounting, payroll, and financial management tailored specifically for construction contractors.
Advanced Job Cost Ledger with multi-level WIP reporting and automated over/under billing calculations
Foundation Software is a leading construction accounting platform tailored for contractors, providing comprehensive job costing, general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and project management tools. It excels in delivering construction-specific financial reporting, including certified payroll compliance, work-in-progress (WIP) schedules, and over/under billing analysis. With its modular architecture and deep customizability, it supports businesses from small subcontractors to large general contractors, ensuring precise cost tracking across multiple jobs.
Pros
- Superior job costing with real-time drill-down and variance analysis
- Robust compliance tools for certified payroll and union reporting
- Highly customizable modules and strong integrations with estimating software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to depth of features
- Primarily on-premise deployment, with cloud options limited
- High initial setup and licensing costs
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms requiring advanced, industry-specific accounting and precise job cost control.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting at $10,000-$20,000+ depending on modules, plus annual maintenance (18-20% of license fee); custom quotes required.
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate
enterpriseProvides robust accounting, job costing, project management, and service operations for construction and real estate firms.
Sophisticated Job Cost Ledger with granular phase/subphase tracking and automated variance analysis
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate is a comprehensive ERP solution tailored for construction and real estate companies, offering robust job cost accounting, project management, and financial controls. It enables precise tracking of costs, labor, materials, and overhead across multiple projects, with tools for budgeting, forecasting, and profitability analysis. The software supports the full project lifecycle, from estimating and bidding to closeout, including AIA billing, retainage, and compliance reporting.
Pros
- Exceptional job costing with multi-level breakdowns and real-time WIP reporting
- Deep industry-specific features like change order management and certified payroll
- Highly customizable reports and integrations with tools like Procore and Autodesk
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex, spreadsheet-heavy interface
- Primarily on-premise deployment with limited native cloud scalability
- High upfront implementation costs and ongoing maintenance fees
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms needing integrated ERP for detailed cost accounting and multi-project oversight.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $10,000-$50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, based on modules, users, and hosting.
Trimble Viewpoint Vista
enterpriseOffers integrated ERP with advanced job costing, financial reporting, and accounting controls for construction enterprises.
Dynamic job cost ledger delivering real-time profitability visibility at job, phase, and cost code levels with variance analysis
Trimble Viewpoint Vista is a comprehensive ERP platform tailored for the construction industry, specializing in job cost accounting, financial management, and project controls. It provides detailed tracking of labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor costs across multiple projects, enabling real-time profitability analysis and budgeting. The software integrates accounting functions like AP/AR, payroll, and general ledger with construction-specific workflows, making it a robust solution for contractors managing complex financial operations.
Pros
- Exceptional job costing with granular tracking by phase, cost code, and resource
- Deep integration with construction-specific modules like payroll and subcontract management
- Highly customizable reports and dashboards for financial insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex, customizable interface
- Primarily on-premise deployment requiring IT infrastructure
- High upfront costs and lengthy implementation timelines
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms needing an integrated ERP for precise job cost accounting and enterprise-scale financial management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, often $50,000+ for setup and $20,000-$100,000+ annually depending on users and modules.
CMiC
enterpriseCloud-based ERP platform unifying construction accounting, project controls, and financial management for owners and contractors.
Single integrated database across all modules for seamless data flow from field to finance without reconciliation errors
CMiC is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform designed specifically for the construction industry, offering robust cost accounting features including job costing, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. It integrates accounting modules with project management, procurement, HR, and field operations to provide real-time data visibility and streamlined workflows. As an enterprise-grade solution, it supports complex multi-project environments and ensures compliance with construction-specific regulations.
Pros
- Fully integrated single-database architecture eliminates silos and ensures data accuracy
- Advanced job costing and WIP reporting with real-time analytics
- Scalable for large enterprises with strong customization options
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation process
- High pricing suitable only for mid-to-large firms
- User interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
Best For
Large construction firms managing multiple complex projects that require an all-in-one ERP with deep cost accounting capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $100,000+ annually based on users, projects, and modules, with subscription model.
Sage 100 Contractor
specializedStreamlines job costing, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reporting for small to mid-sized construction businesses.
Granular job cost allocation across phases, cost codes, labor, materials, and equipment for precise profitability insights
Sage 100 Contractor is a robust desktop-based ERP software designed specifically for construction companies, offering comprehensive job costing, project accounting, payroll, and accounts payable/receivable tailored to the industry's unique needs. It excels in tracking costs by job phase, cost code, and resource type, enabling accurate profitability analysis across multiple projects. The software supports customizable reporting, change order management, and compliance with construction billing standards like AIA forms.
Pros
- Powerful job costing with detailed phase and cost code tracking
- Handles complex construction-specific billing and payroll
- Highly customizable reports and integrations with field tools
Cons
- Outdated interface with a steep learning curve
- Primarily on-premise, requiring IT setup or hosting
- Expensive for smaller contractors with modular pricing
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms requiring in-depth, customizable job cost accounting and project financial controls.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$4,500 for base + $1,000-$2,000 per user/module; subscriptions from $175-$300/user/month.
Jonas Construction Software
enterpriseIntegrated ERP solution for construction accounting, job management, service, and distribution with real-time financial insights.
Premier Construction Accounting module with automated WIP schedules and real-time job-to-the-general-ledger posting
Jonas Construction Software is a comprehensive ERP platform designed specifically for the construction industry, offering robust cost accounting features like job costing, budgeting, forecasting, and integrated financial reporting. It provides real-time visibility into project profitability, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and general ledger management tailored to construction workflows. The modular system supports multi-company operations and ensures compliance with industry standards such as WIP reporting and change order tracking.
Pros
- Comprehensive job costing and real-time profitability tracking
- Fully integrated ERP with construction-specific modules
- Scalable for multi-company and multi-project environments
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be high for small firms
- Limited out-of-the-box mobile accessibility
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction companies seeking an integrated ERP solution with advanced cost accounting capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; modular subscriptions typically start at $3,000-$10,000/month depending on users, modules, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Deltek ComputerEase
specializedCloud construction accounting software focused on job costing, AP/AR automation, and customizable financial reporting.
Multi-level job costing engine that provides granular visibility into project profitability by phase, cost type, and vendor.
Deltek ComputerEase is a construction-specific accounting software designed for job costing, project financial management, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and general ledger functions tailored to contractors. It excels in tracking costs at detailed levels like phases, cost codes, and subcontractors, supporting compliance needs such as certified payroll. As part of Deltek's suite, it offers cloud deployment options and integrations with project management tools for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive job costing with multi-level tracking (phases, cost codes, subcontractors)
- Built-in construction compliance tools like certified payroll and retainage management
- Scalable for multi-company setups and integrates with Deltek ecosystem
Cons
- Dated interface with a steep learning curve for new users
- Lengthy and costly implementation process
- Higher pricing may not suit very small contractors
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms needing robust, industry-specific job cost accounting and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $1,000–$5,000/month depending on modules, users, and company size, with annual contracts common.
QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor
specializedIndustry-specific edition for construction job costing, estimating, invoicing, and expense tracking with scalable financial tools.
Advanced job costing with assemblies and phase tracking for precise construction profitability insights
QuickBooks Enterprise Contractor is a specialized edition of Intuit's QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise software tailored for construction firms, providing robust job costing, progress invoicing, and change order management. It enables detailed tracking of labor, materials, subcontractors, and overhead costs per project, with customizable reports for profitability analysis. Integrated with payroll, time tracking, and inventory tools, it supports end-to-end financial management for contractors handling multiple jobs.
Pros
- Powerful job costing tracks costs and profitability in real-time per project
- Customizable templates for estimates, change orders, and AIA billing
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks Payroll and ProContractor tools
Cons
- High pricing may overwhelm small contractors
- Steeper learning curve for advanced construction-specific features
- Desktop-based with limited native mobile access compared to cloud rivals
Best For
Mid-sized construction companies seeking integrated accounting with strong job costing for multiple projects.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$1,720 for Silver (1 user) up to ~$4,709 for Diamond (40 users), plus add-ons for payroll (~$800+/year) and hosting.
Epicor Construction ERP
enterpriseERP system with construction-specific accounting, inventory management, and job profitability analysis for contractors.
Spectrum-powered job cost ledger with real-time drill-down from financial statements to individual transactions
Epicor Construction ERP is a robust enterprise resource planning solution tailored for the construction industry, offering comprehensive cost accounting capabilities including job costing, project budgeting, change order management, and real-time financial reporting. It integrates accounting with project management, procurement, and service operations to provide accurate cost tracking and profitability insights across multiple projects. Designed for mid-to-large construction firms, it supports complex multi-company structures and compliance with industry standards.
Pros
- Advanced job costing with detailed WIP reporting and variance analysis
- Seamless integration of financials with project lifecycle management
- Highly customizable dashboards and reporting for construction-specific metrics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring significant training
- High implementation costs and customization expenses
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms with complex projects needing integrated ERP for precise cost control and financial oversight.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request; typically starts at $15,000+ annually for cloud deployments, scaling with users and modules.
Procore Financial Management
enterpriseConstruction management platform with integrated budgeting, forecasting, job costing, and payment applications for project financials.
Prime Contract and Subcontract Commitment Management with automated workflows tied to project schedules
Procore Financial Management is a cloud-based module within the Procore construction management platform, specializing in cost accounting for construction projects. It offers tools for budgeting, job costing, change order management, commitment tracking, and financial forecasting with real-time visibility into project financials. Integrated with Procore's project management features, it bridges field data with office accounting to minimize variances and improve profitability analysis.
Pros
- Seamless integration with project management for real-time cost tracking
- Robust budgeting, forecasting, and variance reporting tools
- Mobile access for field teams to update financials on-site
Cons
- High pricing limits accessibility for small contractors
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Limited native support for advanced GL accounting integrations
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms managing multiple projects that need integrated financials with project workflows.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $500-$700 per month per user for Financial Management module, with annual contracts and add-ons for advanced features.
Conclusion
After careful evaluation, Foundation Software leads as the top choice, delivering specialized job cost accounting, payroll, and financial tools for construction contractors. Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate and Trimble Viewpoint Vista follow, with robust features for broader needs—Sage 300 integrating accounting and project management, and Trimble Viewpoint Vista offering integrated ERP and advanced controls. Each tool caters to distinct requirements, but all prioritize efficiency in construction financial operations.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your workflows—start with Foundation Software, the top-ranked tool, to experience streamlined job costing, payroll, and financial management tailored to your contracting needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
