Ever wondered where to start in the vast world of software development? With hundreds of programming languages out there, each with its unique features, it might be confusing for beginners. The good news is that as you step into the world of coding, you'll discover the language that suits your interests and career goals. If you aim to create a mobile application, attain programming certification, or acquire new skills, mastering the appropriate programming language is essential. Some of the best programming languages to learn are JavaScript, Java, Python, SQL, C#, and more.
Programming languages act as a communication tool between developers and computers, with rules converting instructions into machine code or visual elements. In simple terms, a program is a set of instructions crafted for specific tasks, using languages like C, C++, Java, or Python. Understanding programming languages involves recognizing types like procedural, functional, object-oriented, scripting, and imperative. Additionally, knowing classifications such as front end vs. back end, high-level vs. low-level, and interpreted vs. compiled languages can make your journey simpler and clearer. This article provides insights into the most in-demand programming languages to learn in 2024 with the resources, breaking down their details like skills, salary, companies hiring, and more.
In the startup industry, there's a significant demand for JavaScript, Ruby, and Python. Python, with its popular backend frameworks like Django and Flask, Ruby with Ruby on Rails, and JavaScript with Express and NodeJS, is widely used. These languages are often regarded as the best programming languages for beginners to learn.
The top 15 in-demand programming languages to learn in 2024 are:
JavaScript (JS) is a programming language that works on different devices and helps developers make web pages do interesting things. It lets them create content that changes as you use it, add animations, make pop-up menus, clickable buttons, control videos, and more. According to Web Technology Surveys, around 98.8 percent of the websites employ it on the client side. Originally named LiveScript, it emerged in 1995 with a close association with Java, even being marketed as its "younger brother." Initially designed for web browsers, JavaScript has expanded its role to include server-side website deployments and applications.
Many popular sites use JavaScript like Google, YouTube, Facebook, Amazon, Twitter, and more. For example, YouTube uses JavaScript to make videos play smoothly, load content seamlessly, and create interactive features. Similarly, Google employs JavaScript for real-time suggestions in search, interactive maps, and dynamic interfaces in services like Gmail and Google Drive.
Widely used for web development, game development, and mobile apps, JavaScript leads as the most commonly used language globally, offering versatility and user-friendly features. Due to its popularity, it is highly recommended for beginners to learn, as it offers widespread demand and support in the programming community.
1. Eloquent JavaScript: A Modern Introduction to Programming - Author: Marijn Haverbeke
2. You Don't Know JS Yet: Get Started - Author: Kyle Simpson
Proficiency Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
Required Skills | Proficiency in HTML and CSS for creating web page content and layout |
Platform | Desktop, mobile, and web |
Program Popularity | Widely used as the most popular programming language globally |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Widely used with broad applicability |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹8,28,845 per year |
Companies Hiring | Major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook often seek professionals with expertise in HTML and CSS |
Python is a versatile programming language that lets developers use different ways of writing code, like functional or object-oriented styles. Famous platforms like YouTube, Google Search, and iRobot machines were made with Python. HackerRank says it's the second-most wanted language for hiring in the America. It's good for both beginners and experienced because it's easy to learn and use.
Python has a big library with ready-to-use commands for common tasks. It's interactive, so coders can test their code as they write, saving time. Even if you're really good at coding, it's useful to know Python. More than 50% of hiring managers want people who know Python, making it one of the most valuable and in demand programming languages.
1. Python Crash Course: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming - Author: Eric Matthes
2. Head First Python: A Brain-Friendly Guide - Author: Paul Barry
Proficiency Level | Beginner |
Required Skills | Problem-solving, abstract thinking skills |
Platform Compatibility | Versatile - Suitable for both web and desktop environments |
Program Popularity | Continuously gaining traction in the developer community |
Advantages |
|
Challenges | May not cover programming basics initially, abstracting too many fundamental concepts |
Extent of Usage | Widely adopted in coding practices; popular in both technical education and business settings |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹5,50,000 per year |
Companies Hiring | Major companies like Infosys, Accenture, CognitiveClouds, Wipro etc; |
SQL, or Structured Query Language, is a great programming language to learn if you're into data science and statistics. It is the 4th-most-used language in the programming industry, with over 48.66% of surveyed developers confirming its usage. It's a special language that allows programmers to ask questions, change, and study data kept in a type of database called a relational database. Therefore, SQL is ideal for managing tasks like creating, retrieving, updating, and deleting (CRUD) data in a database.
Many companies in different fields might need people who know SQL because they play an important role in managing databases. Web developers use SQL to organize a website's database, and marketers use it to check how well their marketing plans are working. Plus, many database systems like MySQL, Oracle, and MariaDB use SQL. So, it's fair to say that there's a high demand for SQL developers. The good news is that learning SQL is very easy because its syntax uses everyday English words.
1. SQL in 10 Minutes, Sams Teach Yourself - Author: Ben Forta
2. SQL Queries for Mere Mortals: A Hands-On Guide to Data Manipulation in SQL - Authors: John L. Viescas, Michael J. Hernandez
Proficiency Level | Intermediate |
Required Skills | Understanding of SQL for database manipulation, essential for roles such as Data Analyst and QA Engineer |
Platform Compatibility | Compatible with various applications and environments like web applications, data warehouses, and e-commerce applications |
Program Popularity | Widely adopted as the most prevalent database query language globally |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Highly prevalent in various applications and industries |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹5,67,759 per year |
Companies Hiring | Top companies like Tata Consultancy Services, Capgemini, Cognizant, IBM, Accenture |
Java, owned by Oracle Corporation, is an object-oriented programming language recognized for its Write Once, Run Anywhere (WORA) capability. With over 3 billion devices running Java applications, it shows that it can work well on many different types of devices, from mainframes to smartphones. Java's influence extends to web development, big data, and backend support for major websites like Google and Amazon. The language's complexity is balanced by a robust global community, encouraging collaboration among the millions of Java developers worldwide. Its adaptability and widespread use in frameworks like Spring and Hibernate contribute to Java's sustained demand, highlighting its lasting value in an ever-evolving industry.
1. Effective Java - Author: Joshua Bloch
2. Head First Java - Author: Kathy Sierra and Bert Bates
Proficiency Level | Intermediate |
Required Skills | Proficiency in problem-solving and understanding of object-oriented structure |
Platform Compatibility | Versatile across desktop, mobile, and web platforms |
Program Popularity | Recognized as one of the most in-demand languages with high popularity |
Advantages | Considered an excellent entry point for cultivating programming thinking and skills |
Challenges | Involves acquiring a substantial amount of new vocabulary; categorized as a higher-level language |
Extent of Usage | Widely utilized and highly applicable in various domains |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹5,51,753 per year |
Companies Hiring | Tata Consultancy Services, Cognizant Technology Solutions, Capgemini, IBM and more |
C# is a programming language developed by Microsoft, gaining popularity in the 2000s for its support of object-oriented programming. Created by Anders Hejlsberg, the language shares similarities with C++ rather than Java.
C# is widely utilized for applications within the .NET framework and is particularly well-suited for Windows, Android, and iOS platforms. The integrated development environment, Microsoft Visual C++, enhances the language's capabilities. Notably, C# plays a key role in the back-end development of various well-known websites such as Bing, Dell, Visual Studio, and MarketWatch.
Furthermore, for those with an interest in virtual reality (VR) development, exploring C# is highly recommended. It serves as the preferred language for constructing both 3D and 2D video games, utilizing the popular Unity game engine. This engine is responsible for producing a significant portion of the top games in the market, making C# an invaluable skill for aspiring game developers.
1. C# in Depth - Author: Jon Skeet
2. C# 9.0 in a Nutshell: The Definitive Reference - Author: Joseph Albahari
Proficiency Level | Intermediate |
Required Skills | Basic understanding of coding concepts |
Platform Compatibility | Versatile across platforms, including mobile and enterprise software applications |
Program Popularity | Holds a solid popularity, though not as widespread as its primary competitor, Java |
Advantages |
|
Challenges | Faces limitations in flexibility, relying on Microsoft’s .Net framework; poor cross-platform graphical user interface (GUI) |
Extent of Usage | Adopted by around one-third of software developers, especially those who work with Microsoft technologies. |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹5,96,396 per year |
Companies Hiring | Microsoft, Stack Overflow, Trustpilot |
PHP, an open-source programming language established in 1990, is embraced by web developers for its pivotal role in crafting over 80% of websites, including major platforms like Facebook and Yahoo. It is one of the first back-end languages that many web developers find essential to learn. On top of that, PHP is used by 76.6% of all websites since it is the primary language for WordPress.
Primarily employed for crafting server-side scripts, PHP extends its utility to command-line scripts and even desktop application development for skilled programmers. Its reputation as a user-friendly language makes it accessible for beginners, with numerous dedicated online communities offering robust support and solutions to queries for PHP professionals.
1. Modern PHP - Author: Josh Lockhart
2. Head First PHP & MySQL: A Brain-Friendly Guide - Author: Lynn Beighley, Michael Morrison
Proficiency Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
Required Skills | Simple for those with a programming background; relatively easy for newcomers to learn |
Platform Compatibility | Versatile across desktop, mobile, and web platforms |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Although it remains prevalent, its overall usage is on a decline |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 3.9 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | IndiaNIC Infotech, Capgemini, IBM, Cognizant |
C is one of the oldest and most popular programming languages, serving as the foundation for others like C#, Java, and JavaScript. Meanwhile, C++ is an improved version of C. While some developers skip learning C directly, many believe that mastering C first provides a solid base for C++ development. Both languages are extensively used in computer science.
Developers in C and C++ can employ compilers for various platforms, ensuring that applications created in these languages are highly portable. Known for their high performance, C and C++ find widespread use in critical performance-oriented applications. Examples include client/server applications, widely-used products like Firefox and Adobe, and the development of video games. These languages continue to be integral in the field of programming due to their flexibility and efficiency.
1. C Programming Language - Author: Brian W. Kernighan, Dennis M. Ritchie
2. Programming: Principles and Practice Using C++ - Author: Bjarne Stroustrup
Proficiency Level | C - Intermediate to Advanced C++ - Beginner to Intermediate |
Required Skills | Strong problem-solving skills, basic computer knowledge; understanding of low-level computer functions, especially in memory management for C and C++ |
Platform Compatibility | Mobile, Desktop, Embedded |
Program Popularity | C - Witnessing a migration trend towards C++ C++ - Stands as one of the globe’s most widely adopted programming languages |
Advantages | C - Ideal for mastering fundamental programming at the lowest (hardware) level C++ - Provides significantly higher control compared to other languages |
Challenges | C - Enforces strict coding standards, presents a steeper learning curve, not the most beginner-friendly language C++ - Requires a bit more effort to grasp and become proficient in compared to C, and even so more than Java |
Extent of Usage | C - Among the most widely used languages C++ - Widely utilized |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹9,14,757 per year |
Companies Hiring | Amazon, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, Accenture |
Ruby is a programming language known for its simplicity, making it a great choice for beginners. Created in the 1990s, Ruby was designed to be easy for humans to understand, with a flexible object-oriented architecture that supports various programming styles. It is mainly used for building websites and other programming projects such as making servers, handling data, and doing tasks like web scraping and crawling.
A popular web application framework built with Ruby is called Ruby on Rails ("RoR"). Notable websites like Airbnb, Groupon, Hulu, and Soundcloud have been developed using Ruby on Rails. Many developers appreciate Ruby for its user-friendly syntax and the quick learning curve it offers. This has led to a large community of Ruby developers and increased interest in the language, especially among those who are just starting in programming.
1. Eloquent Ruby
Author: Russ Olsen
2. The Well-Grounded Rubyist
Author: David A. Black
Proficiency Level | Beginner - Ruby and Ruby on Rails have gained immense popularity among web developers |
Required Skills | Strong problem-solving and abstract thinking, with the ability to visualize user preferences for applications |
Platform Compatibility | Web |
Program Popularity | Experiencing a rise in popularity |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Although on the rise, it is currently the least broadly used language |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 5.0 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | CrunchBase, Twitter, GitHub, Shopify |
R is an open-source programming language, essentially a variation of the S language. Developers can run much of the code written for S on R without any modifications.
R finds its primary application in statistical processing, covering tasks such as linear and nonlinear modeling, calculation, testing, visualization, and analysis. It is proficient in interfacing with various databases and handling both structured and unstructured data.
While R has a moderate learning curve and may not be as beginner-friendly as some other languages mentioned in this article, it benefits from an active online community of developers—a valuable resource for those acquiring new coding skills.
1. Learning R: A Step-by-Step Function Guide to Data Analysis - Author: Richard Cotton
2. R Cookbook: Proven Recipes for Data Analysis, Statistics, and Graphics- Author: Paul Teetor
Proficiency Level | Intermediate |
Required Skills | Recommended for those with familiarity in Javascript or Python; advantageous for individuals with a strong understanding of mathematics |
Platform Compatibility | Primarily desktop |
Program Popularity | Not as popular as it once was, notably impacted by the rising popularity of Python |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Commonly used in analytics |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹521,382 per year |
Companies Hiring | Facebook, Google , Ford Motor Company |
CSS, or Cascading Style Sheets, is a style sheet language used to define how web pages look. It sets rules that web browsers follow, giving control over the appearance of HTML or XML documents. In the world of web development, CSS plays a pivotal role in styling various elements, encompassing HTML tags such as text within the document's body, headings, paragraphs, and other textual components. Its impact extends to the formatting of grid components, table elements, and images, providing a comprehensive means to customize the visual aspects of a webpage.
In simple terms, CSS is like a set of instructions for a web browser. It guides the browser on how to display things on a webpage, like what font to use, how big the text should be, and what colour it should be. Basically, it helps make the webpage look the way it's supposed to.
1. HTML and CSS: Design and Build Websites - Author: Jon Duckett
2. Learning Web Design: A Beginner’s Guide to HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Web Graphics - Author: Jennifer Robbins
Proficiency Level | Advanced |
Required Skills | Advanced knowledge of HTML and CSS, Strong understanding of web design principles, understanding of version control (e.g., Git), and collaboration tools. |
Platform Compatibility | Compatible with all major web browsers, making it a versatile choice for web development. |
Program Popularity | Highly popular for styling websites, working with HTML and JavaScript to create visually appealing and interactive web pages. |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Widely used in web development for styling and layout. |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 4.0 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | Google, Microsoft, Facebook. |
Go, also known as Golang, was created by Google in 2007 for building APIs and web applications. Its popularity has grown rapidly due to its simplicity, making it a top choice for handling large codebases and multicore systems. Major companies like Google, Uber, and Dropbox rely on Go for its modern structure and syntax.
With a focus on simplicity and efficiency, Go has become favourite among developers tackling extensive projects. Its straightforward design and compatibility with multicore and networked systems have fueled its growth, attracting users from diverse fields, including data science.
1. The Go Programming Language - Authors: Alan Donovan, Brian Kernighan
2. Get Programming with Go - Authors: Nathan Youngman, Roger Peppe
Proficiency Level | Beginner to Intermediate |
Required Skills | Easy to grasp if you know at least one other programming language; otherwise, patience and a willingness to learn are essential |
Platform Compatibility | Versatile across platforms, with a primary focus on desktop environments |
Program Popularity | Not as widespread as Java or Python, but steadily gaining popularity |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Widely used, particularly in the domain of Google applications (originating from Google) |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 3.5 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | BigShyft, WebKorps Solutions, Uber, Netflix. |
Kotlin is a versatile programming language initially introduced as Project Kotlin by JetBrains in 2011, with its official release in 2016. Developed to outperform Java, Kotlin is interoperable with Java and supports functional programming.
Widely utilized for Android apps, web applications, desktop applications, and server-side development, Kotlin has gained popularity. Many Google applications rely on Kotlin, and notable companies like Coursera, Pinterest, and PostMates have adopted it as their programming language. Users appreciate Kotlin's capabilities, and it has become a preferred choice in various application development scenarios.
1. Kotlin in Action - Authors: Dmitry Jemerov, Svetlana Isakova
2. Kotlin Cookbook: A Problem-Focused Approach - Author: Ken Kousen
Proficiency Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
Required Skills | Previous experience with programming languages, especially Java |
Platform Compatibility | Versatile across Web, Mobile, Desktop, and Server environments |
Program Popularity | Gradually gaining popularity; notably utilised in Android application development |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Widely used |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 4.6 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | Tech Mahindra, General Motors, Cognizant, Randstad |
TypeScript, developed by Microsoft in 2012, is gaining popularity as a programming language with nearly 40% of the developers using this, as per Stack Overflow Developer Survey. It serves as a typed version of JavaScript, specifically designed for handling large code bases. TypeScript proves beneficial in both client-side and server-side development, adding a layer of typing to JavaScript projects. This feature helps catch errors early on and prevents systemic issues.
As per the TypeScript official website, notable companies like Google, Airbnb, and Slack are using this programming language. This recognition highlights its increasing usage and relevance in the programming community.
1. Programming TypeScript: Making Your JavaScript Applications Scale - Author: Boris Cherny
2. Effective TypeScript: 62 Specific Ways to Improve Your TypeScript - Author: Dan Vanderkam
Proficiency Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
Required Skills | Fundamental knowledge on JavaScript |
Platform Compatibility | Web |
Program Popularity | Rapid gain in popularity, especially for large-scale programs |
Advantages |
|
Challenges | Prerequisite knowledge of JavaScript necessary |
Extent of Usage | Gaining significant attention among web developers |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 3 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | Capgemini, Contenterra, Oracle, Siemens |
Rust, a leading-edge programming language developed by Mozilla Corporation, is renowned for its emphasis on safety, concurrency, and practicality in systems programming. Its growing popularity, underscored in the 2023 Stack Overflow Developer's Survey where it clinched the top spot as the most loved language for eight consecutive years, positions Rust as a valuable skill.
Major tech players like Dropbox and Coursera have already integrated Rust into their operations, recognizing its effectiveness in preventing errors, ensuring thread safety, and enhancing system security. Rust is great for building distributed apps and critical systems, thanks to its safe memory handling and ability to handle multiple tasks at once. It's also a good alternative to C++ for low-level programming, offering cross-platform capabilities and strong performance.
1. Programming Rust: Fast, Safe Systems Development
Authors: Jim Blandy, Jason Orendorff, Leonora F. S. Tindall
2. Rust for Rustaceans: Idiomatic Programming for Experienced Developers
Author: Jon Gjengset
Proficiency Level | Intermediate to Advanced proficiency |
Required Skills | Requires a solid grasp of systems programming, memory management, and understanding of key concepts like ownership, borrowing, and lifetimes. |
Platform Compatibility | Compatible with various platforms, making it versatile for system-level programming |
Program Popularity | Growing popularity among programmers due to its focus on safety, performance, and concurrency |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Widely used in systems programming, game development, and performance-critical applications, with growing adoption in various industries |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 6 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | IBM, Cyient, Dell Technologies, Tech Mahindra |
A few years back, Swift secured a spot in the top 10 of the monthly TIOBE Index, which ranks popular programming languages. Developed by Apple in 2014, Swift is designed for Linux and Mac applications. It's an open-source language that shares a lot of features with Objective-C. Known for being user-friendly, Swift doesn't require extensive coding skills. It's compatible with IBM Swift Sandbox and IBM Bluemix. Noteworthy is its use in well-known iOS apps such as WordPress, Mozilla Firefox, SoundCloud, and even the popular game Flappy Bird.
1. Swift Programming: The Big Nerd Ranch Guide - Authors: Matthew Mathias, John Gallagher
2. iOS Programming: The Big Nerd Ranch Guide - Authors: Christian Keur, Aaron Hillegass
Proficiency Level | Beginners to Intermediate |
Required Skills | Willingness to invest time in tutorials which are widely available; no prior programming experience needed |
Platform Compatibility | Primarily for mobile applications, specifically designed for Apple iOS |
Program Popularity | On the rise, particularly favoured by developers working on Apple iOS applications |
Advantages |
|
Challenges |
|
Extent of Usage | Widely utilized for crafting iOS applications on devices like iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch |
Estimated Average Salary | ₹ 6.5 Lakhs per year |
Companies Hiring | Facebook, LinkedIn, Airbnb, Uber |
In addition to the mentioned programming languages (Java, Kotlin, Python, etc.), there are other languages such as HTML, Matlab, Scala, NoSQL, Perl, and Elixir.
In conclusion, acquiring proficiency in the programming languages mentioned above is a strategic investment for those aspiring to pursue a career in software development. These languages not only provide a solid foundation but also exhibit lasting relevance in the fast-paced tech industry. Additionally, immersive programs like Crampete’s Full stack web development offer a practical pathway, equipping individuals with in-demand skills and a portfolio to excel in the evolving landscape of programming.
In 2024, it's advisable to focus on mastering programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, and TypeScript.
JavaScript remains highly desired for web development, playing a crucial role in powering the functionality and features of modern websites.
Python. If you're just starting to learn programming and want something easy and even enjoyable, Python is always a good choice. Unlike some other languages with strict rules, Python's syntax is more like plain English, making it straightforward for beginners to understand. It's a great language to start with.
Absolutely, learning languages like C and Java will remain valuable in 2024, given their foundational role in many existing applications and widespread usage across diverse industries.
Backend web development often involves languages such as Python (with frameworks like Django and Flask), JavaScript (Node.js), Ruby (Ruby on Rails), and PHP (Laravel).
While specialising in one language is common, having exposure to multiple languages can enhance your adaptability and versatility in the dynamic tech industry.
Game development often involves languages like C#, C++, and Python, especially when coupled with game development frameworks like Unity and Pygame.
In 2024, the need for skilled programmers is growing rapidly, making it essential to keep up with the latest trends. Your choice of programming language can greatly influence your career. Here, we highlight the top 5 languages to learn in 2024, considering job prospects and overall importance in the industry.
Accelerate Your Career with Crampete