Are you wondering which programming language should you start learning? Continue reading and discover the nine best programming languages to learn for 2024.
As you step into tech, you’ll notice that hundreds of programming languages are used today. The good news is you don’t need to learn them all. You just need to know which ones are most relevant to your field, are in high demand, and lead to careers that align with your personal goals.
But what are the best programming languages to learn?
To help, we’ve compiled a list of the top nine programming languages to learn based on your career goals and interests. Let’s jump in and start things off!
Top Programming Languages to Learn in 2024
But which coding and programming language should you learn? Below is a list of the most popular programming languages in demand in 2024.
Python
Python is among the most well-known programming languages used for various tasks, such as writing scripts, powering machine learning, optimizing tasks, and engaging in web design. Some of the reasons to learn Python include:
- Easy to learn
- Popular in data science
- Versatile
- Open-source and free software
- High probability
- Robust standard library
You should learn Python if you’re a beginner in coding, a data scientist, or an AI enthusiast.
Popular frameworks and libraries include Django, Flask, Pandas, and TenorFlow.
JavaScript
JavaScript is a scripting language that primarily enables browsers to read and execute its code. Reasons to learn JavaScrips include:
- Adds interactivity and dynamic features to static web pages
- It only needs a browser to run
- Essential for front-end and back-end web development
- Works well with HTML and CSS
You should learn JavaScript if you’re an aspiring web developer or a full-stack developer.
Popular frameworks and libraries of JavaScript include React, Angular, and Next.js.
Java
Java is a universal programming language used to develop applications, programs, websites, and most operating systems for modern smartphones. Reasons to learn Java include:
- Crucial for Android app development
- Widely used in enterprise-level applications
- Has mature and useful libraries and frameworks
- It can be used to develop a program of any complexity
You should learn Java if you’re an aspiring software developer or mobile app developer.
Popular Java frameworks and libraries include Spring, Hibernate, and Android SDK.
C++
C++ is a generic programming language for building any type of program. Reasons to learn this language include:
- High-performance language
- Widely used in game development and system programming
- It can be used to develop VR applications
You should learn C++ if you want to become a game developer or an embedded systems engineer.
Popular frameworks and libraries of C++ include Unreal Engine and Qt.
C#
C# is a programming language developed by Microsoft exclusively for their .NET framework. Reasons to learn this programming language include:
- Ideal for Windows desktop applications and game development
- Powerful with Unity for game creation
- Object-oriented language which helps you write, read, and test code hassle-free
You should learn C# if you want to become a game developer or a Windows app developer.
Popular frameworks and libraries of C# include Unity and .NET.
Swift
Swift is a programming language created by Apple to create Linux and MacOS applications. Reasons to learn Swift include:
- Official language for iOS and macOS development
- Easy syntax
- High performance
- Open-source programming language
- User-friendly
You should learn Swift if you want to become an iOS app developer or mobile app creator.
Popular frameworks and libraries of Swift include SwiftUI and Vapor.
Go (Golang)
Go is a programming language created by Google. It was specifically designed to support large projects like the Google search engine. Reasons to learn this programming language include:
- Ideal for cloud-based applications and microservices
- It’s a minimalistic language
- Easy to learn and get started with
- Growing ecosystem of partners, tools, and communities
You should learn Go if you want to become a cloud developer or backend developer.
Popular frameworks and libraries of this programming language include Gin and Revel.
Rust
Rust is a fast, efficient programming language mostly known for its security strengths. Reasons to learn this programming language include:
- Focuses on safety, speed, and concurrency
- Growing community, especially in system-level programming
You should learn Rust if you want to become a system programmer or a performance-driven app developer.
Popular frameworks and libraries of this programming language include Rocket and Actix.
SQL (Structured Query Language)
SQL is a database language that’s used to manage data stored in relational databases.
Reasons to learn this programming language include:
- Fundamental for managing and querying databases
- Crucial in data science, web development, and backend development
- Used alongside Python, JavaScript, PHP, and more in web applications and data processing
You should learn SQL if you’re an aspiring data analyst, database administrator, or backend developer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Programming Language
Let’s explore the factors you need to consider when deciding which programming language to learn.
Your Career Goals
As different programming languages align with various career paths, you should consider your career goals when choosing a language. For example, for a career in web development, consider learning JavaScript, Python, or Java, whereas for a career in data science, consider learning Python or SQL.
Learning Curve and Ease of Use
You should also consider the difficulty levels of programming languages. In general, Python is recommended for beginners due to its simple syntax and readability. On the other hand, languages like C# and Rust can be more challenging, but they still offer powerful features that make them worthwhile to dive into.
Industry Demand
Learning a programming language with high market relevance can boost your career prospects. According to CodeOp, the top programming languages in demand for 2024 include Python, Java, C#, Go, JavaScript, TypeScript, Kotlin, Swift, and Rust.
Community Support and Resources
Lastly, a crucial factor to consider when choosing a programming language is whether it has a strong community and ample resources. Languages like Python and Javascript have large, active communities, so there are plenty of resources, forums, and tutorials to help you learn the language.
Which Programming Language Is Right for You?
Although now you know which factors to consider, choosing the right programming language for you can still be daunting. While you’ll learn several languages throughout your career, consider what kinds of projects you’d like to work on first. For example:
- If you want to build an iPhone or Mac app, learn Swift.
- If you want to build Android apps, learn Java.
- If you want to work on complex, data-driven sites and apps, learn SQL.
- If you want to build games, learn C++.
- If you want to build modern websites and web apps, learn JavaScript.
Best Resources to Learn Programming Languages
Let’s explore which are the best resources to learn programming languages.
Online Courses and Platforms
Online coding courses allow you to learn at your own pace and from anywhere in the world. Some of the most popular online course platforms include:
Books for Beginners and Advanced Programmers
Some of the books you can benefit from, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced programmer, include:
Interested in pursuing a degree?
Fill out the form and get all admission information you need regarding your chosen program.
- Python: “Python Distilled” by David M. Beazley and “Python Crash Course” by Eric Matthes
- JavaScript: “JavaScript: The Good Parts” by Douglas Crockford and “You Don’t Know JS” series by Kyle Simpson
- Java: “Head First Java” by Kathy Sierra & Bert Bates and “Effective Java” by Joshua Blotch
- C++: “The C++ Programming Language” by Bjarne Stroustrup and “C++ Primer” by Stanley B. Lippman, Josée Lajoie, and Barbara E. Moo
- C#: “Pro C#” by Andrew Troelsen and “The C# Player’s Guide” by R. B. Whitaker
- Swift: The Swift Programming Language and “Head First Swift: A Learner’s Guide to Programming with Swift” by Jon Manning and Paris Buttfield-Addison
- Go: “Go Programming Language, The (Addison-Wesley Professional Computing Series)” by Alan Donovan and Brian Kernighan and “Learning Go: An Idiomatic Approach to Real-World Go Programming” by Jon Bodner
- Rust: “Effective Rust” by David Drysdale and “The Rust Programming Language” by Steve Klabnik and Carol Nichols
- SQL: “SQL Quickstart Guide: The Simplified Beginner’s Guide to SQL” by Walter Shields and “Head First SQL” by Lynn Beighley
Coding Bootcamps and Certifications
Another way to accelerate the learning process is through coding bootcamps. These intensive programs are career-focused and often include support if you want to start a job search after the bootcamps. While the curriculum differs, you can expect to learn programming fundamentals, popular programming languages, web development, and data queries.
Community Involvement
Joining a coding community can provide valuable support and feedback as you navigate the learning process. Moreover, these communities remind you that you’re not alone on your journey. You can find fellow coders on Discord servers, subreddits, and specialized sites like the GitHub community.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Learning Programming
As you start your programming journey, you can become overwhelmed by all there is to learn. Consequently, you’re more prone to make mistakes or develop bad habits that make learning a programming language much harder.
So, here are some of the most common mistakes you can make when learning a programming language.
- Learning Too Many Languages at Once: While learning multiple languages at once is possible, we suggest focusing on one language to build a solid foundation.
- Neglecting Problem-Solving Skills: While tutorials are helpful, you should also spend time practicing algorithms and coding challenges to enhance your problem-solving skills.
- Avoiding Projects: Learning only through observation instead of practice is another common mistake you want to avoid. Working on projects helps you develop a wealth of reference materials you can use and helps you build your portfolio.
Career Opportunities and Salaries for Different Languages
Programming languages can help you succeed in various jobs in and out of the tech industry. Here are some high-paying coding jobs to consider.
- Web Developer: $95,570
- Data Scientist: $108,020
- Backend Developer: $120,086
- Game Developer: $108,471
- Software Developer: $132,270
Career paths that involve programming languages may pay more than others because of factors such as demand, industry usage, complexity, and the number of skilled developers using the language.
Conclusion
Although the field of computer programming is constantly changing, the languages listed above have a great deal of staying power. By learning any of these languages, you’ll be able to pursue various career paths in tech and beyond.
Choosing a programming language to learn might be overwhelming, but you really can’t choose the “wrong” language. Most likely, you’ll learn several different languages throughout your career, and once you know one language, it becomes easier to pick up another.
While online courses and bootcamps can accelerate the learning process, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree is the most in-depth way to learn to code and can open doors for more advanced jobs and higher salaries. Want to learn more about becoming a programmer? Check out our guides about why learn programming and how to become a programmer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Which programming language is easiest for beginners?
In general, JavaScript and Python are considered the easiest programming languages to learn. These languages are beginner-friendly because they have relatively simple syntax and ready-made functions.
How long does it take to learn a programming language?
The time it takes to learn a programming language depends on how frequently you can study. However, you can learn basic coding skills in three to six months, whereas advanced programming skills can take six months to a year.
Can I learn multiple programming languages at once?
Learning multiple programming languages at once if you have no programming experience can make things more confusing and difficult. However, if you have progressed in a language, you can start learning another.
