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The world of technology is booming, and the demand for skilled programmers is higher than ever. Choosing the right programming language is crucial if you’re a complete beginner or looking to add new skills to your stocks. A programming language is a set of instructions written by a programmer to deliver instructions to the computer to perform and accomplish a task. This blog post will break down the top 21 programming languages to learn in 2024, offering an expert view of their functionalities and career prospects.
Programming Languages
Programming languages are systems of notation used for writing computer programs, defining the syntax (form) and semantics (meaning) of instructions that computers can execute. These languages encompass features like type systems, variables, and error handling mechanisms to facilitate the creation of software applications.
Top 20 Best Programming Languages
1. Python
Firstly, Python continues to reign as one of the most versatile and in-demand programming languages in 2024. Known for its readability and simplicity, Python is favored for a wide range of applications, including web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and automation. With its extensive libraries and robust community support, mastering Python opens doors to diverse career opportunities in various industries.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | Problem-solving, logical thinking |
| Platform | Web, Desktop, Data |
| Pros | Versatile, readable syntax, vast ecosystem of libraries |
| Cons | Performance limitations for CPU-bound tasks |
| Degree of Use | High |
2. JavaScript
Secondly, as the backbone of web development, JavaScript remains indispensable in 2024. With the rise of dynamic web applications and frameworks like React and Angular, proficiency in JavaScript is a must-have skill for front-end and full-stack developers. Its versatility extends beyond the web, with JavaScript frameworks like Node.js enabling server-side development and building cross-platform desktop and mobile apps.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Skills Needed | Problem-solving, logical thinking |
| Platform | Web, Mobile |
| Pros | Versatility, front-end and back-end development |
| Cons | Inconsistencies across browsers, asynchronous nature |
| Degree of Use | High |
3. Java
Java maintains its stronghold in enterprise software development, powering large-scale systems and applications across industries. Renowned for its platform independence and robustness, Java is the foundation of numerous critical systems, including banking, e-commerce, and Android app development. With its widespread adoption and enduring relevance, Java developers continue to be in high demand.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $80,000 – $130,000 |
| Skills Needed | Object-oriented programming, logical thinking |
| Platform | Web, Mobile, Desktop |
| Pros | Platform independence, robustness, vast libraries |
| Cons | Boilerplate code is slower compared to some languages |
| Degree of Use | High |
4. C++
C++ remains a cornerstone of software development, particularly in domains requiring high performance and efficiency, such as game development, system programming, and embedded systems. While considered more complex than some modern languages, mastering C++ provides a deep understanding of computer architecture and memory management, making it a valuable skill for building robust and resource-efficient applications.
| Level | Advanced |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Annual Salary Projection | $90,000 – $140,000 |
| Skills Needed | Memory management, algorithm design |
| Platform | System, Game Development |
| Pros | High performance, control over hardware |
| Cons | A steep learning curve, the potential for memory leaks |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
5. C#
With its roots in the Microsoft ecosystem, C# is a powerful language for developing desktop, web, and mobile applications. As the primary language for building software on the .NET framework, C# offers strong support for object-oriented programming, making it ideal for building scalable and maintainable applications. With the advent of technologies like Xamarin, C# has also gained traction in cross-platform mobile development.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $75,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | Object-oriented programming, logical thinking |
| Platform | Web, Desktop, Mobile |
| Pros | Strong support for Windows development, robustness |
| Cons | Limited cross-platform capabilities, Microsoft dependency |
| Degree of Use | High |
6. Swift
Swift, developed by Apple, has emerged as the language of choice for iOS and macOS app development. With its modern syntax and performance optimizations, Swift offers developers a streamlined and intuitive platform for building robust and user-friendly applications for Apple devices. As the demand for iOS app development continues to soar, proficiency in Swift opens doors to lucrative opportunities in the thriving Apple ecosystem.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $80,000 – $130,000 |
| Skills Needed | Object-oriented programming |
| Platform | iOS, macOS |
| Pros | Modern syntax, performance optimization, safety features |
| Cons | Limited to the Apple ecosystem, a smaller job market |
| Degree of Use | High |
7. TypeScript
TypeScript, a superset of JavaScript, has gained popularity for its enhanced static typing and tooling support, making it a favorite among developers seeking to write safer and more maintainable code. With its adoption by major tech companies and frameworks like Angular, TypeScript offers developers the benefits of type checking and code intelligence while retaining compatibility with existing JavaScript codebases.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | JavaScript, Object-oriented programming |
| Platform | Web |
| Pros | Static typing, tooling support, improved code safety |
| Cons | Learning curve, transpilation step |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
8. Go (Golang)
Go, commonly referred to as Golang, has gained momentum for its simplicity, concurrency support, and performance efficiency. Developed by Google, Go is well-suited for building scalable and concurrent systems, making it an excellent choice for cloud-native applications, microservices, and distributed systems. With its growing ecosystem and support from major tech companies, proficiency in Go opens doors to opportunities in cloud computing and DevOps.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $80,000 – $130,000 |
| Skills Needed | Concurrency support, simplicity |
| Platform | Cloud, Backend |
| Pros | Simplicity, concurrency, performance, growing ecosystem |
| Cons | Smaller community compared to some languages |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
9. Kotlin
Kotlin, endorsed by Google as an official language for Android development, has quickly gained popularity among developers for its modern syntax, interoperability with Java, and enhanced safety features. With its concise syntax and seamless integration with existing Java codebases, Kotlin enables developers to build robust and efficient Android apps with fewer boilerplate code and fewer chances of runtime errors.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $75,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | Java, Object-oriented programming |
| Platform | Android, Backend |
| Pros | Interoperability with Java, modern syntax, and safety features |
| Cons | Smaller ecosystem compared to Java |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
10. Rust
Rust, hailed for its performance, memory safety, and fearless concurrency, has garnered attention for its ability to empower developers to write fast and secure systems-level code. With its emphasis on preventing common programming errors at compile time, Rust is well-suited for building high-performance applications, including operating systems, game engines, and web servers. As concerns about security and reliability continue to rise, Rust’s popularity is expected to grow further in 2024 and beyond.
| Level | Advanced |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Annual Salary Projection | $90,000 – $140,000 |
| Skills Needed | Memory safety, concurrency |
| Platform | System, Web |
| Pros | Performance, memory safety, concurrency |
| Cons | A steeper learning curve, smaller community |
| Degree of Use | Low |
11. PHP
PHP remains a staple in web development, powering a significant portion of the internet, including popular content management systems like WordPress and Drupal. Despite competition from newer languages, PHP continues to evolve, with the release of PHP 8 introducing performance improvements and language enhancements. With its extensive ecosystem of frameworks and libraries, PHP remains a viable choice for building dynamic and scalable web applications.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Skills Needed | Web development, problem-solving |
| Platform | Web |
| Pros | Easy to learn, vast ecosystem, integration with databases |
| Cons | Legacy codebase, inconsistent language design |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
12. Ruby
Ruby, known for its simplicity and developer-friendly syntax, continues to be a favorite among startups and web developers for building elegant and maintainable applications. Its flagship framework, Ruby on Rails, enables rapid prototyping and agile development, making it an ideal choice for building scalable web applications. While its popularity has waned in recent years, Ruby remains a valuable skill in certain niches, particularly in the startup ecosystem.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Skills Needed | Web development, problem-solving |
| Platform | Web |
| Pros | Elegant syntax, rapid development with Rails |
| Cons | Slower performance compared to some languages |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
13. Scala
Scala, a powerful language for building scalable and robust applications on the Java Virtual Machine (JVM), combines functional and object-oriented programming paradigms, offering developers a flexible and expressive platform for building complex systems. With its emphasis on type safety and conciseness, Scala is well-suited for developing high-performance applications, particularly in domains like data analytics, distributed computing, and financial services.
| Level | Advanced |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Annual Salary Projection | $90,000 – $140,000 |
| Skills Needed | Functional programming |
| Platform | Web, Backend |
| Pros | Scalability, type safety, functional programming |
| Cons | A steeper learning curve, smaller job market |
| Degree of Use | Low |
14. R
R, a language and environment for statistical computing and graphics, continues to be indispensable in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling. With its extensive ecosystem of packages and libraries, R empowers data scientists and statisticians to explore, visualize, and analyze complex datasets, making it a valuable tool for researchers, analysts, and decision-makers across industries.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | Statistical analysis, data visualization |
| Platform | Data Science |
| Pros | Extensive libraries, statistical modeling capabilities |
| Cons | A steeper learning curve, limited to the data science domain |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
15. MATLAB
Furthermore, MATLAB, a high-level programming language and interactive environment for numerical computation, remains a cornerstone of engineering, scientific research, and academia. With its powerful built-in functions and toolboxes, MATLAB enables engineers and scientists to solve complex mathematical problems, simulate systems, and analyze data with ease. As the demand for computational tools in research and industry continues to grow, proficiency in MATLAB remains highly valued.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $75,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | Numerical computation |
| Platform | Engineering, Research |
| Pros | Powerful built-in functions, extensive toolboxes |
| Cons | Proprietary, limited outside engineering and research |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
16. SQL
SQL (Structured Query Language) is the standard language for managing and manipulating relational databases, making it an essential skill for database administrators, data analysts, and software developers. With its declarative syntax and powerful querying capabilities, SQL enables users to retrieve, insert, update, and delete data from databases efficiently and securely. As data volumes grow, SQL proficiency remains a fundamental requirement for anyone working with relational databases.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Skills Needed | Database management, querying |
| Platform | Database, Backend |
| Pros | The standard language for relational databases |
| Cons | Syntax variations among database vendors |
| Degree of Use | High |
17. Dart
Additionally, Dart, developed by Google, has gained traction as the programming language for building cross-platform mobile, web, and desktop applications using the Flutter framework. With its reactive framework and hot reload feature, Dart enables developers to build beautiful and performant applications with a single codebase, targeting multiple platforms seamlessly. As Flutter adoption continues to rise, proficiency in Dart offers developers a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving landscape of multi-platform app development.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | Object-oriented programming |
| Platform | Web, Mobile |
| Pros | Single codebase for multiple platforms, hot reload |
| Cons | Smaller community compared to some languages |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
18. Lua
Furthermore, Lua, a lightweight and embeddable scripting language, has found its niche in game development, embedded systems, and scripting for software applications. Known for its simplicity, speed, and versatility, Lua is widely used in game engines like Unity and Roblox for scripting game logic and user interfaces. With its minimalistic design and easy integration, Lua remains a popular choice for extending the functionality of software applications and customizing behavior.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Skills Needed | Scripting |
| Platform | Game Development, Embedded |
| Pros | Lightweight, embeddable, easy integration |
| Cons | Limited use outside specific niches |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
19. Shell Scripting (Bash)
Shell scripting, particularly Bash (Bourne Again Shell), is essential for automating tasks, managing system configurations, and scripting command-line utilities in Unix-like operating systems. With its powerful scripting capabilities and seamless integration
with the command line, Bash enables system administrators and developers to streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and maintain system stability. Proficiency in shell scripting is invaluable for anyone working with Linux or Unix-based systems.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| Skills Needed | Shell scripting, command line |
| Platform | Linux, Unix |
| Pros | Automation, system administration |
| Cons | Limited to Unix-like systems |
| Degree of Use | High |
20. Assembly Language
Assembly language, while less commonly used today than higher-level languages, remains foundational for understanding computer architecture and low-level programming concepts. With its direct correspondence to machine code and close interaction with hardware, assembly language offers developers unparalleled control and optimization capabilities, particularly in performance-critical applications like operating systems, device drivers, and embedded systems. While not as widely adopted as higher-level languages, proficiency in assembly language is highly valued in certain domains requiring deep knowledge of computer systems.
| Level | Advanced |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Annual Salary Projection | $90,000 – $140,000 |
| Skills Needed | Computer architecture |
| Platform | System, Embedded |
| Pros | Direct control over hardware, performance optimization |
| Cons | Low-level, hardware-specific, steep learning curve |
| Degree of Use | Low |
21. Julia
Julia is a high-level, high-performance programming language specifically designed for numerical and scientific computing. It combines the ease of use of dynamic languages like Python with the performance of compiled languages like C. Julia’s syntax is similar to that of other technical computing environments, making it easy for users familiar with MATLAB, R, or Python to transition to Julia. With its powerful mathematical libraries and parallel computing capabilities, Julia is well-suited for data analysis, machine learning, computational physics, and other scientific applications. Its growing ecosystem of packages and active community make it an attractive choice for researchers, scientists, and engineers seeking to tackle complex computational problems efficiently.
| Level | Intermediate |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Annual Salary Projection | $75,000 – $120,000 |
| Skills Needed | Scientific computing, problem-solving |
| Platform | Scientific computing, Data Science |
| Pros | High-performance, easy syntax for mathematical operations |
| Cons | Smaller community compared to some languages |
| Degree of Use | Medium |
These are the 21 best programming languages recommended by industry experts in 2024, each offering unique strengths, applications, and opportunities for career growth. Whether you’re a newcomer to programming or a seasoned developer looking to expand your skillset, mastering one or more of these languages can open doors to exciting opportunities in software development, data science, web development, mobile app development, and beyond.
What are the 4 types of programming language?
The four main types of programming languages are:
Procedural Programming Languages
Procedural programming languages are based on the concept of breaking down a program into a collection of variables, data structures, and subroutines (also known as functions, procedures, or routines). Examples include C, Pascal, and FORTRAN.
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) Languages
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) languages are based on the concept of objects, which can contain data (attributes) and code (methods). The main principles of OOP are encapsulation, abstraction, inheritance, and polymorphism. Examples include Java, C++, Python, and Ruby.
Functional Programming Languages
Functional programming languages are based on the concept of pure functions, which avoid side effects and operate on immutable data. The main principles of functional programming are functions as first-class citizens, higher-order functions, and recursion. Examples include Haskell, Erlang, Lisp, and Scala.
Scripting Languages
Scripting languages are designed for writing scripts, which are programs that automate tasks and are usually interpreted rather than compiled. They are often used for system administration, web development, and general-purpose programming. Examples include Bash, Python, JavaScript, and Perl.
Which Programming Language Should I Learn First as a Beginner?
For beginners, it’s essential to select a language that strikes a balance between simplicity and versatility. One of the most recommended languages for beginners is Python. Easy-to-read syntax and vast libraries make it perfect for web development, data analysis, and even machine learning.
Other beginner-friendly options to consider include:
- JavaScript: The king of web development, JavaScript is another great starting point. While its syntax can differ slightly from Python, it offers a strong foundation for building interactive web applications.
- Ruby: Similar to Python in its readability, Ruby is another excellent choice for beginners. Its focus on programmer productivity makes it enjoyable to learn and use.
The best language for you depends on your interests.
Furthermore, here are factors to consider when choosing a programming language as a beginner.
1. Understand Your Goals and Interests
Firstly, before diving into learning a programming language, take some time to reflect on your goals and interests. Are you interested in building websites and web applications? Do you want to delve into data analysis or machine learning? Understanding your aspirations will help narrow down your options and guide you toward a language that aligns with your objectives.
2. Consider Ease of Learning
Secondly, for beginners, it’s essential to choose a language with a gentle learning curve. You’ll want to avoid languages that are overly complex or have steep prerequisites. Instead, opt for a language that is beginner-friendly and easy to grasp. Languages like Python, JavaScript, and Ruby are known for their readability and simplicity, making them ideal choices for beginners.
3. Evaluate Industry Demand
While it’s essential to select a language that aligns with your interests, it’s also wise to consider the demand for that language in the industry. Research job postings in your desired field and take note of which languages are commonly required or preferred by employers. Choosing a language with high demand can enhance your employability and open up more job opportunities in the future.
4. Explore Versatility
Furthermore, as a beginner, it’s beneficial to choose a language that offers versatility and can be applied to various projects and domains. Look for languages with a robust ecosystem of libraries, frameworks, and community support. This versatility will allow you to explore different areas of programming and adapt to changing interests or career paths as you progress.
5. Seek Community Support
The programming community plays a crucial role in your learning journey. Look for languages with active and supportive communities where you can seek guidance, ask questions, and collaborate with other learners. Join online forums, participate in coding communities, and attend local meetups or workshops to connect with fellow programmers and mentors.
The Bottomline
In conclusion, while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which programming language is best, several options stand out for their accessibility, versatility, and industry demand.
Overall, Python emerges as a top choice due to its user-friendly syntax, extensive community support, and applicability across a wide range of domains, from web development to data analysis and machine learning.
Ultimately, the best programming language for you will depend on your goals, interests, and career aspirations. Take the time to explore different languages, experiment with coding projects, and engage with the programming community to find the language that resonates with you.
FAQ’s
Which coding language is best for jobs?
There isn’t a single “best” coding language for jobs, as the most in-demand languages depend on the current job market and specific career paths. However, some languages consistently rank high in terms of job opportunities:
-
Python: Popular for its versatility and beginner-friendliness, Python is a great all-rounder with strong demand in web development, data science, and machine learning.
-
JavaScript: The king of web development, JavaScript is a must-have for building interactive web applications and user interfaces.
-
Java: A powerhouse for enterprise software and Android development, Java offers stability and a wealth of job opportunities.
-
C++: While its learning curve is steeper, C++ remains essential for high-performance computing, game development, and system programming, and is still sought-after in many industries.
Beyond these top contenders, languages like Go, Kotlin, and Swift are gaining traction in specific areas like mobile development and cloud computing.
Which is the easiest coding language?
Python is often considered one of the easiest coding languages to learn due to its simple and readable syntax, making it beginner-friendly and widely used for various applications, including web development, data science, and automation.
What is the hardest programming language to learn?
Languages like Haskell, Rust, and C++ are often considered challenging due to their complex syntax, strict rules, and steep learning curves, making them more demanding for beginners.
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