Programming Languages Ranking: Top 9 in 2022 (2024)

The IT field is an evolving industry. New databases, programming languages, and frameworks are appearing every day.

Here is an overview of different rankings to help you choose the right programming language for your project.

How Many Programming Languages Are There And What To Choose For Your Team

Instead of looking for the best language, a better strategy is to analyze the most used language and its uses. According to the TIOBE Index, there are over 265 programming languages out there. There is a reason why there are so many languages. To put it simply, each language can give you different results depending on the scale and type of project. Usually, programmers learn a dozen of these languages to specialize in a few of them based on their work requirements.

There is no point in looking for someone who can master all of these programming languages. A more strategic method is to isolate the specific need of your project for each stage of the development process. So, before looking for the winner, let’s have a look at which is the best language to consider in the different phases of the development process:

Front-end Web Development

  • JavaScript
  • Elm
  • TypeScript

Back-end Web Development

  • JavaScript
  • Scala
  • Python
  • Go
  • Ruby

Mobile Application

  • Swift
  • Java
  • Objective C
  • JavaScript

Game Development

  • Unity
  • TypeScript

Desktop Application

  • Scala
  • Go
  • Python

System Programming

  • Go
  • Rust

Based on what you need, you can focus your research on the type of programming language that can give you the best outcome. Here is a comparison between three rankings of the most in-demand programming languages.

Top Programming Languages: Rankings In Comparison

Programming Languages Ranking: Top 9 in 2022 (1)

As we mentioned, coding practices evolve like any software or digital device. Some of them were popular in the past and now are forgotten. Some others are immortal, and new ones are taking over. Each year, different rankings come up. And the ‘best language’ can be different depending on which technologies or geographical areas are taken into account.

For example, the Ruby language is more popular in Japan and South America than anywhere else. Likewise, Python is equally popular worldwide and C++ is the favorite in India, Pakistan, and Malaysia. When it comes to hiring remotely, it is also crucial to consider where to hire, not only which language is the most used.

Here is a comparison between three different indexes to analyze the most used programming languages:

TIOBE Index

Since 2001, the TIOBE index has been an indicator of the popularity of programming languages, and it’s updated each month. In this index, ratings are the results of the twenty-five popular search engines, courses, and third-party vendors – Google, Bing, Yahoo!, Wikipedia, Amazon, YouTube, and Baidu lead the way.

According to 2021’s results, the number one programming language is C. So far, only C and Java hold the podium. However, Python has never been so close to hitting the first position – the bridge between these two is only 0.16%. In fact, C ratings recorded a decline from 20.24% in June 2001 to 11.83% in September 2021. Java is still in the third position on the podium. But it declined from 26.49% in June 2001 to 10.12% in September 202. In addition, Ruby is also getting more popular, moving from position 15 to 13. Finally, Go gained 4 positions, going up from 18 to 14.

On the flip side, PHP has the worst performance. This language was number 3 in 2001, and now it’s in position 9.

To conclude, the TIOBE index is a useful source because it analyzes the most used programming languages – rather than the best ones. If you need to make a strategic decision for a new project, this index is a starting point for an overview of programming languages’ demand and evolution.

Here is the complete list of programming languages based on TIOBE ratings:

Programming Languages Ranking: Top 9 in 2022 (2)

Source: TIOBE Index

PYPL Index Ranking

The Github PYPL Index also analyzes the popularity of programming languages. Their method takes into account which tutorials developers are searching on Google. This index is also updated each month.

In addition to their worldwide index, PYPL publishes separate rankings for the US, India, Germany, United Kingdom, France. According to this index, Python is in position number 1 worldwide, followed by Java. To specify, Python has doubled its shares (48%) in Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. And it has the highest share in the UK (34%) and the lowest in India (31%).

PYPL also recorded a decline for PHP and Java. From 20% shares in 2008, PHP reached 5.76% in 2021. For Java, the decline is slower but consistent: from 31% in 2008, it dropped to 18%. Both languages are losing popularity, considering that their shares hit 50% in 2004-2009.

Here is the complete list of shares for the ranking:

Programming Languages Ranking: Top 9 in 2022 (3)

Source: Github PYPL Index

RedMonk’s Q1 2021

For its ratings, RedMonk combines GitHub data and discussions on developer info-sharing site Stack Overflow. Based on their research, Javascript is number 1, followed by Python and Java. Unlike the first two indexes, PHP maintains a good position (number 4) and C is down the list (number 10). However, their method produces several ties. And the results of their analysis determined the following programming languages list:

  1. JavaScript
  2. Python
  3. Java
  4. PHP
  5. C#
  6. C++
  7. CSS
  8. TypeScript
  9. Ruby
  10. C
  11. Swift
  12. R
  13. Objective-C
  14. Shell
  15. Scala
  16. Go
  17. PowerShell
  18. Kotlin
  19. Rust
  20. Perl

Here is a complete overview of the first quarter plot for 2021:

Programming Languages Ranking: Top 9 in 2022 (4)

Source: RedMonk’s Q1 2021

Top 9 Programming Languages

Based on these indexes, here is our list of the most trending programming languages and their uses:

  1. Python
  2. Java
  3. JavaScript
  4. C#
  5. C/C++
  6. PHP
  7. Swift
  8. Objective-C
  9. Kotlin

1. Python

Python is a general-purpose coding language for several programming styles such as functional, object-oriented, reflective, etc. With this language, you can build multiple digital tools and platforms. For example, YouTube, Google Search, and iRobot machines use it. In addition, for hiring managers, Python is the second-most in-demand programming language after JavaScript.

The language is used for:
  • Back end development
  • Data science
  • App development

Apps using Python: YouTube, Quora, Reddit, Instagram, Spotify.

2. Java

Java is an object-oriented programming language. Developers can create objects encompassing functions and data to structure programs and applications. Currently, Java ranks is the third most in-demand language for hiring managers worldwide. In addition, Stack Overflow lists it among the most used languages in the past two years.

The language is used for:
  • E-commerce
  • Finance
  • App development

Apps using Java: Google Play, TrainAway app, School App, and Matchplayer for Android.

3. JavaScript

With JavaScript, developers can manage the behavior of web pages by creating animated graphics, interactive maps, and so on. For Stack Overflow’s 2020 Developer Survey, JavaScript is the most commonly-used language in the world (69.7%) and it’s the most in-demand programming language for US hiring managers.

The language is used for:
  • Web development
  • Game development
  • Mobile apps
  • Building web servers

Apps for JavaScript: Yahoo, eBay, Amazon, Wikipedia.

4. C#

Microsoft released C# in 2002. Since then, C sharp steadily grew in popularity. Approximately, one of every five hiring managers plans to hire a C# developer.

The language is used for:
  • Game development
  • Desktop/web/mobile apps
  • VR

Apps using C#: any desktop Windows apps like Uno, Mono, and .NET Core.

5. C/C++

According to PYPL, C++ and C have the same popularity ratings on Google trends, which is why they both belong in this position. Since its creation in 1973, C has been one of the most popular object-oriented languages. You can program systems like Microsoft Windows, Linux, Mac, iOS, Android, and Windows Phone kernels. In addition, it works on popular databases such as Oracle, MySQL, and MS SQL Server.

The language is used for:
  • Game development
  • Mobile applications
  • Video/photo editing apps

Apps using C/C++: Adobe products, Mozilla browser, and Microsoft software.

6. PHP

PHP is widely used for web development services. As an open-source server-side scripting language, PHP allows the creation of interactive and dynamic interfaces. Despite its recent decline, it’s still a popular language. Even today, numerous leading pages use it to run their interfaces and login systems.

The language is used for:
  • Interactive interfaces
  • Mobile applications
  • Website development

Apps using PHP: WordPress, Wikipedia, Mailchimp, Flickr, Yahoo.

7. Swift

Swift programming language works with iOS applications. Since 2014, the language has been a one-stop platform for future Apple product development. Designed by Apple, Swiftruns on macOS, tvOS, watchOS, and z/OS that’s powering IBM Mainframe computers.

The language is used for:
  • iOS applications
  • Native applications
  • UX design
  • Front-end development

Apps using Swift: Slack, Facebook, Uber, Khan Academy, LinkedIn, WhatsApp.

8. Objective-C

Before Swift, there was Objective-C. Created in 1983, it’s the first and only iOS development programming language. Swift is replacing this language in most cases. However, it’s worth mentioning it since several macOS and iOS programming learning resources still run with Objective-C.

The language is used for:
  • iOS and Mac OS X operating systems
  • Mobile application
  • Back-end development

Apps using Objective-C: Apple services like Apple Music and iTunes.

9. Kotlin

Kotlin‘s popularity increased with the rise of Android users – 124.4m in the USA only last year. That is to say, 80% of programmers use Kotlin mainly to build Android apps, 31% for back-end applications, and 30% for SDK/libraries. In addition, it runs with Java, allowing the use of existing Android libraries.

The language is used for:
  • Android applications
  • Back-end applications
  • SDK/libraries

Apps using Kotlin: Slack, Netflix, Evernote, Basecamp, Blockbuster, Occaz, AYIO, MoveUP.

Conclusion

The programming languages’ list we proposed is a guide to make an evaluation of what you need for your project. For example, Objective-C isn’t the first choice for new projects since Swift appeared. So, if you are launching an iOS app from scratch, Swift is the best choice. On the other hand, if you need to implement a running app built with Objective-C, it’s wiser to work with the same language to improve features and interactions. Finally, triad Java, JavaScript, and Python are always a wise choice because of their popularity.

To recap, remember that looking for the most popular language isn’t enough to build a productive development team. You want talented developers, and to attract them you have a solid recruitment strategy. If you need advice on that, we are (remotely) here to help! Our remote recruitment team can find you a developer in less than two weeks, helping you find the best remote programmer – not only the right language!

Programming Languages Ranking: Top 9 in 2022 (2024)

FAQs

What is the most used programming language in 2022? ›

Top languages used in 2022

JavaScript continues to reign supreme and Python held steady in the second place position over the past year in large part due to its versatility in everything from development to education to machine learning and data science. TypeScript also held firm in fourth place year-over-year.

What is the fastest growing programming language 2022? ›

Which were the fastest-growing programming languages in 2022? Hashicorp Configuration Language (HCL) showed a staggering 56.1 percent growth in 2022. Following closely, Rust showed a growth of 50 percent in 2022 as compared to 2021. Typescript and Lua grew by over 37 and 34 percent, respectively.

Which is the No 1 programming language? ›

Javascript is the most popular programming language in the world and is in high demand among various organizations.

Which programming language is best for getting job 2023? ›

The 9 Best Programming Languages to Learn in 2023
  • JavaScript. With increasing demand for dynamic, single page web applications, it's nearly impossible to become a professional software developer without learning JavaScript. ...
  • SQL. ...
  • Rust. ...
  • Go. ...
  • Python. ...
  • Swift. ...
  • Ruby. ...
  • C#

Which programming language is best for getting job 2024? ›

According to TIOBE, the most popular programming languages are Python, C, Java, C++, and C#. Learning these in-demand programming languages will help build a career in technology.

Which programming language is best in 2025? ›

The swift project aims to develop the best language for users, whether mobile programming, desktop apps, or Cloud services. It will be one of the highly demanding languages of 2021. It will continue to be demanding in 2025 and beyond. Therefore, it is considered one of the future programming languages 2025.

Which language is the king of programming language? ›

Currently, Python is trending and can be regarded as the king of programming languages.

What is the strongest programming language? ›

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on individual preferences and opinions. However, some of the most commonly cited powerful programming languages include C++, Java, Python and Ruby. These languages are often chosen for their versatility, robustness and ability to handle complex tasks.

What are the top 3 programing languages? ›

Let's have a look at the figure below, which shows the top programming languages that have been trending and will be the greatest choice for you to learn in 2023, according to Google trends. That's right! Several surveys and research have identified Python, JavaScript, and Java as the top programming languages.

What is Bill Gates Favourite programming language? ›

Bill Gates was proficient at BASIC and assembly(most popular languages those days). However, Microsoft developed C# as a replacement for Java, after they had a falling out with Sun over Java. So Microsoft uses C# where it would've made sense to use Java .

What is the hottest programming language right now? ›

According to Statista, Python takes 3d place as the top programming language with 48.24% of developers who choose it. Python is an interpreted and object-oriented language. It is also one of the high-level modern programming languages with dynamic semantics.

What are the 4 main programming languages? ›

Functional Programming Language. Scripting Programming Language. Logic Programming Language. Object-Oriented Programming Language.

Which coding language is best for jobs? ›

Python is the best programming language for getting a job. Since the TIOBE Index reports Python as being the most popular programming language in the world, that means there is a reasonably high demand for professionals with Python programming skills.

What is the most wanted programming language? ›

  • Python. For years, Python has remained the most popular programming language. ...
  • Java. Java is one of the oldest and most widely used programming languages across the globe. ...
  • JavaScript. There are over 1.8 million websites worldwide, and more than 95 percent of these websites use JavaScript. ...
  • TypeScript. ...
  • PHP. ...
  • C++ ...
  • Swift. ...
  • Kotlin.
May 19, 2022

Is Java better than Python? ›

Python and Java are two of the most popular and robust programming languages. Java is generally faster and more efficient than Python because it is a compiled language. As an interpreted language, Python has simpler, more concise syntax than Java.

Is C++ enough to get a job? ›

There are bright job prospects and various avenues in C++ programming for professionals with extensive knowledge. There are different types of jobs that will help you build a career in C++. Some of these are: Junior Programmer.

Which programming language is best for high salary? ›

Top 10 Highest Paying Programming Languages
  • Rust.
  • Haskell.
  • Scala.
  • JavaScript.
  • Python.
  • Swift/IOS.
Nov 17, 2022

Which programming language will dominate in future? ›

The recent TIOBE ranking report of January 2022 has shown that Python is the top choice programming language of the programmers. Some remarkable features of Python are: Simple to learn and code. Open-source and Object-oriented approach.

Which language is best for 2030? ›

5 Programming Languages to rule the market by 2030
  1. Kotlin. Kotlin is one of the most popular programming languages that is used for Android App Development that is creating a lot of buzz in the market. ...
  2. TypeScript. ...
  3. Swift. ...
  4. Logica. ...
  5. Go.

Which is more in demand C++ or Python? ›

Python has significantly more market share than C++; it's 8 million vs. 6 million. But both languages are very popular. On Github, a developer can find more than enough information to support either Python or C++ development.

Which programming language has the brightest future? ›

Top 10 Programming Languages of the Future: 2050 Outlook
  • Python. Python is a server-side language that has a wide range of applications to boast about. ...
  • JavaScript. ...
  • Golang (Go) ...
  • Java. ...
  • C# ...
  • R. ...
  • C++ ...
  • Swift.
Nov 27, 2022

Which programming language will last forever? ›

Programming Languages with Best Longevity Include Python, Java.

Which language will be most useful in 2050? ›

Mandarin. Mandarin is likely to be the most spoken language in 2050 because of its vast number of speakers. The economic influence of China will also prove vital for the continued use and spread of Chinese languages around the world.

What is future Java or Python? ›

Java is popular among programmers interested in web development, big data, cloud development, and Android app development. Python is favored by those working in back-end development, app development, data science, and machine learning.

What is the mother language of coding? ›

C language is considered as the mother language of all the modern programming languages because most of the compilers, JVMs, Kernels, etc. are written in C language, and most of the programming languages follow C syntax, for example, C++, Java, C#, etc.

Who is the mother of coding? ›

Ada Lovelace was born into a historically famous family. She could have lived well through her father's fame and her mother's money-instead she decided to write a computational algorithm, earning her the title of the mother of programming, and became the first computer programmer in the mid-1800s1,2.

What is the hardest coding to learn? ›

Malbolge. Malbolge was invented in 1998 by Ben Olmstead. This esolang is considered to be the most complicated programming language.

Is C++ or Python better? ›

C++ is faster than Python because it is statically typed, which leads to a faster compilation of code. Python is slower than C++, it supports dynamic typing, and it also uses the interpreter, which makes the process of compilation slower.

Should I learn Python or C++ in 2022? ›

In recent years, high-level languages, such as Python, Java, and JavaScript, have seemed to surpass C++ in popularity and usage. This leads developers to ask the question: Is C++ a good language to learn for 2022? The short answer is yes!

Should I learn C++ or Java in 2022? ›

Should I learn C++ or Java in 2022? Java is a beginner-friendly language that is ideal for junior developers. C++ has a steeper learning curve than Java. C++ is the 4th most popular programming language in 2022, with millions of jobs for remote developers.

Should I learn Java or Python in 2022? ›

When opting for a starting point, you should take your goals into account. Java is popular among programmers interested in web development, big data, cloud development, and Android app development. Python is favored by those working in back-end development, app development, data science, and machine learning.

Is C++ still relevant 2022? ›

As per the TIOBE index of 2022, C++ lies at 4th position in the world's most popular language. The career or job opportunities for C++ programmers are enormous because C++ is an old language, and a lot of code is already written in this language.

Does Python or C++ pay more? ›

C++ vs Python Salaries: C++

According to Indeed, C++ developer salaries average $117,000 a year. Python developer salaries average $109,000 a year. These salaries do vary, but in general, the top-paid C++ developer is likely to make more than the top-paid Python developer.

Will C++ be replaced by Python? ›

Answer: NO. C and C++ form the basis of every programming. Python is in fact built on C with web programming in mind. So there is no possibility that Python will replace fundamental languages like C or C++ at least not in the near future.

Why is C++ preferred over Python? ›

C++ is faster than Python because it is statically typed, which leads to a faster compilation of code. Python is slower than C++, it supports dynamic typing, and it also uses the interpreter, which makes the process of compilation slower.

Is C++ becoming outdated? ›

C++ isn't going away any time soon. C++ is now one of the most widely used computer languages, with a wide range of applications. Python, Java, and web programming are all intriguing career paths, but C++ programmers are often overlooked and mistakenly believed to be dead.

Why is C++ preferred over Java? ›

C++ is used more in large-scale development, like for banks or governments, whereas Java creates more consumer products like apps, software, and video games. Java is ideal for creating simple mobile applications, so if your ideal job is to become a freelance app creator, Java is where you should start.

Which pays more Java or Python? ›

Salary and Jobs

In India, the average salary for a Java developer is ₹4,55,000 per annum(Source: Glassdoor) and for a Python developer, it is ₹4,46,000 per annum(Source: Glassdoor). So if you become flawless in Java or Python, you can easily start your career as a developer.

Will Python surpass Java? ›

Python can never overtake Java because Java is generally more efficient than Python. Python is an interpreted language with dynamic typing, while Java is a statically typed and compiled language.

Is Python tougher than Java? ›

Java is a statically typed and compiled language, and Python is a dynamically typed and interpreted language. This single difference makes Java faster at runtime and easier to debug, but Python is easier to use and easier to read.

Is it better to learn C# or C++? ›

Both of them can be used in web and desktop applications, but C# is much more popular now for both applications. C++ is considered a more prestigious language used for applications such as games, operating systems, and very low-level programming that requires better control of hardware on the PC or server.

What future make C++ so powerful? ›

Abstraction, Encapsulation, Inheritance, and Polymorphism are the four main pillars of C++ that also make it more powerful and flexible.

What is the most difficult programming language? ›

Malbolge. Malbolge was invented in 1998 by Ben Olmstead. This esolang is considered to be the most complicated programming language.

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