You’ve always had a knack for computers and are ready to take the leap into a technology career that will reward you for your skills and hard work. It’s clear that technology is—and will continue to be—a major economic driver, so naturally, a career in computer programming sounds enticing.

But there are a lot of programming languages out there. How do you know which ones are worth taking the time to learn and add to your technical repertoire? One solid way to narrow it down is to find out what languages are in-demand. After all, you don’t want to invest time and money into learning something that won’t pay off.

So, we have researched the best programming languages you should consider when choosing.

• Which Language is best for Earning Money?
• Which Programming Language is Best for Getting Job 2021?
• What Coding jobs pay the most?
• Can Coding make you Rich?
• What is the No 1 Programming Language?
• Is Python Better or Java?

Which Language is best for Earning Money?

How much do computer programmers make? How many computer programming jobs are available? It all depends on which programming languages you have in your arsenal.

Read Also: How much do Java Coders Make?

Whether you’re more concerned with earning potential or job opportunities, this list should give you some clarity on which languages are the most sought after by employers. Keep reading to get acquainted with these programming languages in order of most job opportunity to least job opportunity.

1. SQL

Advertised jobs in 2016: 765,626

Average annual salary: $95,000

SQL (structured query language) is a special-purpose language used for database management. SQL is one of the few declarative programming languages, so there’s a learning curve for programmers used to object-oriented or imperative languages. But the numbers don’t lie—SQL is an in-demand programming language that’s worth the time it takes to learn.

2. Java

Advertised jobs in 2016: 387,533

Average annual salary: $111,000

Java is a general-purpose language that shares much of its syntax with C and C++. It is class-based, object-oriented programming that’s used to develop many of the apps we use on a daily basis. Many websites won’t even work properly without Java apps. Java is a good option for someone new to programming thanks to the plethora of tutorials and learning resources available online.

3. JavaScript

Advertised jobs in 2016: 366,476

Average annual salary: $104,000

JavaScript is a dynamic programming language used most often with internet browsers. You can also find it in game development, PDFs and both mobile and desktop apps. With its plentiful job opportunities and an easily managed learning curve, some programmers argue JavaScript is the ideal programming language for beginners.

4. Python

Advertised jobs in 2016: 247,958

Average annual salary: $120,000

Python is a general-use programming language known for its readability and straightforward coding philosophy. Complexity is not a good thing to a Python programmer. It’s used by both Google and YouTube, is easy to learn for newcomers and was named after Monty Python. What’s not to love?

5. C#

Advertised jobs in 2016: 232,179

Average salary: $100,000

C# (pronounced “C sharp”) is a language developed by Microsoft for use within .NET, meaning it’s one of the primary languages for programming in Windows. C# takes its cues from C++ and Java while adding a focus on simplicity and flexibility. C# plays a key role in programming for the internet, which means this language isn’t likely to fizzle out in the foreseeable future.

6. C++

Advertised jobs in 2016: 186,364

Average annual salary: $111,000

C++ is a compiled language designed for system programming, though it’s also used in desktop apps and e-commerce servers. It was originally created to improve upon C by combining efficiency, flexibility and object-oriented programming. C++ is notorious for being a bit complicated, but anyone familiar with C will have a leg up in learning C++.

7. PERL

Advertised jobs in 2016: 127,893

Average annual salary: $110,000

Perl is a scripting language most often used for CGI scripts, systems administration and network programming. Much of Perl’s source code is available online, giving aspiring programmers the chance to learn by example. Despite its perks, many programmers think Perl is unappealing and unwieldy. Perl’s “ugliness” is a byproduct of its flexibility. In fact, one of the guiding mottos of Perl programming is “There’s more than one way to do it.”

8. PHP

Advertised jobs in 2016: 98,021

Average annual salary: $100,000

PHP is a general-purpose scripting language designed for web development. It’s used to beef up basic HTML—forums, surveys and login pages are all created with PHP. It can even be used to develop desktop apps. PHP is an ideal choice if you’re seeking a future in web development.

9. Ruby

Advertised jobs in 2016: 80,389

Average annual salary: $120,000

Ruby is the ultimate blend of simple and functional programming. This flexible, object-oriented language is used in text processing and middleware programs. It can also be used with larger software apps, such as the Ruby on Rails app for web development. Ruby was designed to be simple and intuitive, making it a good option for beginning programmers.

10. Objective-C

Advertised jobs in 2016: 24,701

Average annual salary: $120,000

Objective-C is a programming language used to create software for Apple platforms OS X and iOS. It’s an object-oriented language that builds upon the C programming language. Some programmers find Objective-C daunting to learn, but anyone who has a basic understanding of C should have no trouble adding Objective-C to their repertoire.

Which Programming Language is best for Getting Job 2021?

The ever-growing list of programming languages and protocols can make it tough for programmers and developers to pick any one language that’s most suitable for their jobs or project at hand. Ideally, every programmer should have knowledge of a language that’s close to the system (C, Go, or C++), a language that’s object-oriented (Java or Python), a functional programming language (Scala), and a powerful scripting language (Python and JavaScript). 

Whether you are aiming at joining a Fortune 500 firm or desire to pursue a work-from-home career in programming, it’s important to know what’s hot in the industry. Here are a few programming languages we recommend for coders who want to make it big in 2020.

1. Python 

Python continues to be one of the best programming languages every developer should learn this year. The language is easy-to-learn and offers clean and well-structured code, making it powerful enough to build a decent web application. 

Python can be used for web and desktop applications, GUI-based desktop applications, machine learning, data science, and network servers. The programming language enjoys immense community support and offers several open-source libraries, frameworks, and modules that make application development a cakewalk.

For instance, Python offers Django and Flask, popular libraries for web development and TensorFlow, Keras, and SciPy for data science applications. 

Though Python has been around for a while, it makes sense to learn this language in 2021 as it can help you get a job or a freelance project quickly, thereby accelerating your career growth. 

2. Kotlin

Kotlin is a general-purpose programming language with type inference. It is designed to be completely interoperable with Java. Moreover, from the time Android announced it as its first language, Kotlin offers features that developers ask for. It effortlessly combines object-oriented and functional programming features within it

The effortless interoperation between Java and Kotlin makes Android development faster and enjoyable. Since Kotlin addresses the major issues surfaced in Java, several Java apps are rewritten in Kotlin. For instance, brands like Coursera and Pinterest have already moved to Kotlin due to strong tooling support.  

As most businesses move to Kotlin, Google is bound to promote this language more than Java. Hence, Kotlin has a strong future in the Android app development ecosystem.

Kotlin is an easy-to-learn, open-source, and swift language for Android app development that removes any adoption-related barriers. You can use it for Android development, web development, desktop development, and server-side development. Therefore, it’s a must-learn language for programmers and Android app developers in 2021. 

3. Java

Java is celebrating its 24th birthday this year and has been one of the most popular programming languages used for developing server-side applications. Java is a practical choice for developing Android apps as it can be used to create highly functional programs and platforms. 

This object-oriented programming language does not require a specific hardware infrastructure, is easily manageable, and has a good level of security. Moreover, it is easier to learn Java in comparison to languages such as C and C++. No wonder, nearly 90 percent of Fortune 500 firms rely on Java for their desktop applications and backend development projects.

Despite its industrial age, Java is incredibly stable and not heading for retirement anytime soon. This makes Java one of the most desirable languages among programmers in 2020. 

4. JavaScript/ NodeJS

JavaScript (also known as NodeJS) is a popular language among developers who need to work on server-side and client-side programming. It is compatible with several other programming languages, allowing you to create animations, set up buttons, and manage multimedia. 

Owing to its high speed and regular annual updates, JavaScript is an ultimate hit in the IT domain. Reputed firms like Netflix, Uber, PayPal, and several startups use JavaScript to create dynamic web pages that are secure and fast. In fact, the 2018 Developer Skills Report by HackerRank shares that JavaScript is the top programming skill required by companies today. 

JavaScript is omnipresent in today’s digital environment. Hence, learning this language makes complete sense. 

5. TypeScript

 TypeScript, a superset of JavaScript is an object-oriented language that was introduced to extend the capabilities of JS. The language makes it easy for developers to write and maintain codes. TypeScript offers a complete description of each component of the code and can be used for developing large applications with a strict syntax and fewer errors. 

Further, it is well-structured and easy to learn. Its extended toolbox makes application development quick. Owing to the benefits it offers, TypeScript is expected to supersede JS in 2021, making it one of the most sought-after programming languages in the future. 

6. Go

Go is fairly a new system-level programming language that has a focused vocabulary and simple scoping rules. It blends the best aspects of functional programming and object-oriented styles. Go is the fastest-growing language on Github, meant to replace languages like Java and C++. 

A Stack Overflow survey reveals that Go is the fifth most preferred language among developers today. This is because Go solves issues like slow compilation and execution in large distributed software systems. 

This speed advantage has made Go a critical component of cloud infrastructure. So, if you are planning to work in a serverless ecosystem, Go is the language for you. 

7. Swift

Swift is a general-purpose compiled programming language developed by Apple that offers developers a simple and cohesive syntax. It is deeply influenced by Python and Ruby that’s fast, secure, and easy-to-learn. Owning to its versatility and practical applications, Swift has replaced Objective-C as the main language for Apple-related applications. 

Further, since Swift is promoted by Apple, its popularity and community support is increasing. In fact, a study of the top 110 apps on the app store showed that 42 percent of apps are already using Swift. 

Coders with little or zero experience can use Swift Playgrounds to learn the language, experiment with complex codes, and work on native iOS and macOS apps. Swift is the premiere coding language that helps developers create iOS apps within a short time. The programming language opens several opportunities for new programmers, allowing them to make it big in the world of app development. 

There is a giant market out there for iOS and you definitely want to be a part of it. If you are eyeing this burgeoning market, Swift is the language you should learn in 2021. 

What Coding jobs pay the most?

Skilled programmers are some of the most well-paid technology professionals in today’s market. Specialized skills such as mobile applications development or enterprise resource planning (ERP) experience can boost a programming salary even more.

If you are a programmer or hope to become one, check out the eight positions with the highest programming salaries.

1. Mobile applications developer

These developers code, test, debug, document and monitor mobile applications. They are in high demand — especially those with these skills:

• Objective C (for iOS) or Java (for Android)
• Graphic design
• User interface (UI) design
• Experience working with REST web services (for integrating with cloud services)

The salary midpoint for mobile application developers is $146,500. 

2. Applications architect

An application architect creates a plan for the technical implementation of a software project. As applications become more critical to businesses and more complex to build, demand for these professionals grows — and so does the programming salary. Midpoint compensation for application architects is $141,750. 

Becoming an application architect requires a deep knowledge of programming theory and extensive hands-on experience. Applications architects also need experience across a wide range of programming domains such as database work and integrations with third-party services.

An application architect must be able to coordinate with nontechnical people in the organization, such as business analysts. In some organizations, an application architect fills the same role as a lead application developer if the team is not large enough to support both positions. 

3. ERP technical developer

ERP projects are some of the largest, most expensive and time-consuming projects that companies can undertake. ERP technical developers play a key role in the success of an ERP project, as they are responsible for implementing and customizing ERP packages.

According to the Salary Guide, ERP technical developers have a salary midpoint of $118,000. ERP technical developers should know a common business language like Java or C#, as well as any specialized development languages or tools relevant to the ERP system they are working with.

Fluency in SQL and the ability to work with databases are mandatory skills. Experience with a major ERP system, such as Oracle Enterprise One or SAP, and with enterprise integration technologies such as SOAP, is often required for programming jobs in this specialty area.

4. Lead applications developer

A lead applications developer is a technical leader and mentor to the development team. This position often includes business leadership responsibilities, such as playing a part in hiring other developers and scheduling product delivery. In some teams, the lead applications developer is also the applications architect and vice versa.

Soft skills such as communications and coaching are very important for this role. Like the other three programming jobs listed above, lead applications developers stand to benefit financially from increasing demand for their specialized skills. This year’s expected salary midpoint for a lead application developer is $128,750. 

5. Business systems analyst

Business systems analysts assess how automated systems can solve complex business problems. With tech trends like the consumerization of IT and an increasing reliance on data, the demand for these professionals is on the increase, with the salary midpoint now at $96,000. Business systems analysts should be able to do the following:

• Formulate and define the scope and objectives for business systems
• Work with business managers and end users to gather data and determine needs
• Provide IT support for regulatory and compliance activities
• Make hardware and software recommendations to meet business needs

6. Cloud computing analyst

These analysts oversee cloud-related infrastructure, including applications, hardware and software, and they ensure the integrity of cloud-migrated data and files. As subject matter experts, they are in charge of training staff and troubleshooting any technical issues that arise in this area, which means good communications skills are a must. 

As the field is still relatively new, employers struggle to find candidates with the desired skill set and related experience. To get a leg up in the industry, increase your marketability — and programmer salary — by gaining the following:

• Virtualization experience
• LINUX/UNIX administration skills
• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) skills

The salary midpoint for cloud computing analysts is $98,250. 

7. CRM technical developer

The CRM technical developer is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation and operations of an organization’s customer relationship management system. These developers must have an understanding of different CRM systems, such as Salesforce, Oracle NetSuite, Hubspot and Microsoft Dynamics 365. 

CRM technical developers typically work with users across the enterprise to determine system needs. They will assign roles, processes and workflows within the CRM, and they may also be responsible for creating technical documentation that explains system functions and capabilities. Required skills include:

• A bachelor’s degree in computer science
• At least one year of experience directly working with a CRM
• Programming experience with JavaScript, SQL and C#

The midpoint programming salary for a CRM technical developer is $110,500, though advanced skills and experience could net you more.

8. Developer/programmer analyst

A critical part of any organization, the programmer analyst evaluates business application requirements for various functional areas of a company, including finance, manufacturing, marketing and human resources. Analysts write code, test and debug software applications, recommend system changes and enhancements, document software specifications and train new system users. 

Effective programming analysts understand and conceptualize applications from both a technical and end user point of view, ensuring that the systems in place meet the needs and requirements of both groups. Analysts should also have the following:

• Strong programming abilities in common languages and frameworks, such as C#/C++, Java Enterprise Edition/AJAX and Microsoft.NET
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Good interpersonal and communication skills

The salary midpoint for a developer/programmer analyst is $108,500.

Can Coding make you Rich?

If you’re considering a programming career or if you already have a few years’ experiences under your belt, you’re probably aware that now is a great time to make a job switch. In fact, the average salary for a computer programmer just hit a record-smashing, all-time high of $100,000.

However, some languages are seemingly more valuable than others. There are lots of reasons why; it could be in high demand, or it could require more expertise than others for example. So depending on which one you decide to focus on you may be bringing home less cash than other programmers out there.

If you want to get rich, you need to be learning any one of the languages mentioned above. Broadly speaking, they all fall in or around the same ballpark salary. They’re also NOT starting salaries. Sorry to burst to the bubble, but there’s no get rich quick scheme in programming or any other career field. If you want to make the big bucks, you need to work hard and stay dedicated. But if you do, big rewards await.

What is the No 1 Programming Language?

Here are 10 of the most popular programming languages of 2020 based on the number of job postings listed on job search site Indeed, the average annual salary for those jobs, and factors such as ease of use and potential for growth.

1. Python

Number of jobs: 19,000

Average annual salary: $120,000

Benefits: Python is widely regarded as a programming language that’s easy to learn, due to its simple syntax, a large library of standards and toolkits, and integration with other popular programming languages such as C and C++. In fact, it’s the first language that students learn in the Align program, Gorton says. “You can cover a lot of computer science concepts quickly, and it’s relatively easy to build on.” It is a popular programming language, especially among startups, and therefore Python skills are in high demand.

Drawbacks: Python is not suitable for mobile application development.

Common uses: Python is used in a wide variety of applications, including artificial intelligence, financial services, and data science. Social media sites such as Instagram and Pinterest are also built on Python.

2. JavaScript

Number of jobs: 24,000

Average annual salary: $118,000

Benefits: JavaScript is the most popular programming language for building interactive websites; “virtually everyone is using it,” Gorton says. When combined with Node.js, programmers can use JavaScript to produce web content on the server before a page is sent to the browser, which can be used to build games and communication applications that run directly in the browser. A wide variety of add-ons extend the functionality of JavaScript as well. 

Drawbacks: Internet browsers can disable JavaScript code from running, as JavaScript is used to code pop-up ads that in some cases can contain malicious content. 

Common uses: JavaScript is used extensively in website and mobile application development. Node.js allows for the development of browser-based applications, which do not require users to download an application.

3. Java

Number of jobs: 29,000

Average annual salary: $104,000

Benefits: Java is the programming language most commonly associated with the development of client-server applications, which are used by large businesses around the world. Java is designed to be a loosely coupled programming language, meaning that an application written in Java can run on any platform that supports Java. As a result, Java is described as the “write once, run anywhere” programming language.

Drawbacks: Java is not ideal for applications that run on the cloud, as opposed to the server (which is common for business applications). In addition, the software company Oracle, which owns Java, charges a licensing fee to use the Java Development Kit.

Common uses: Along with business applications, Java is used extensively in the Android mobile operating system.

4. C#

Number of jobs: 18,000

Average annual salary: $97,000

Benefits: Microsoft developed C# as a faster and more secure variant of C. It is fully integrated with Microsoft’s .NET software framework, which supports the development of applications for Windows, browser plug-ins, and mobile devices. C# offers shared codebases, a large code library, and a variety of data types.

Drawbacks: C# can have a steep learning curve, especially for resolving errors. It is less flexible than languages such as C++. 

Common uses: C# is the go-to language for Microsoft ad Windows application development. It can also be used for mobile devices and video game consoles using an extension of the .NET Framework called Mono.

5. C

Number of jobs: 8,000

Average annual salary: $97,000

Benefits: Along with Python and Java, C forms a “good foundation” for learning how to program, Gorton says. As one of the first programming languages ever developed, C has served as the foundation for writing more modern languages such as Python, Ruby, and PHP. It is also an easy language to debug, test, and maintain.

Drawbacks: Since it’s an older programming language, C is not suitable for more modern use cases such as websites or mobile applications. C also has a complex syntax as compared to more modern languages.

Common uses: Because it can run on any type of device, C is often used to program hardware, such as embedded devices in automobiles and medical devices used in healthcare. 

6. C++

Number of jobs: 9,000

Average annual salary: $97,000

Benefits: C++ is an extension of C that works well for programming the systems that run applications, as opposed to the applications themselves. C++ also works well for multi-device and multi-platform systems. Over time, programmers have written a large set of libraries and compilers for C++. Being able to use these utilities effectively is just as important to understanding a programming language as writing code, Gorton says.

Drawbacks: Like C, C++ has complex syntax and an abundance of features that can make it complicated for new programmers. C++ also does not support run-time checking, which is a method of detecting errors or defects while software is running. 

Common uses: C++ has many uses and is the language behind everything from computer games to mathematical simulations.

7. Go

Number of jobs: 1,700

Average annual salary: $93,000

Benefits: Also referred to as Golang, Go was developed by Google to be an efficient, readable, and secure language for system-level programming. It works well for distributed systems, in which systems are located on different networks and need to communicate by sending messages to each other. While it is a relatively new language, Go has a large standards library and extensive documentation.

Drawbacks: Go has not gained widespread use outside of Silicon Valley. Go does not include a library for graphical user interfaces, which are the most common ways that end-users interact with any device that has a screen.

Common uses: Go is used primarily for applications that need to process a lot of data. In addition to Google, companies using Go for certain applications include Netflix, Twitch, and Uber.

8. R

Number of jobs: 1,500

Average annual salary: $93,000

Benefits: R is heavily used in statistical analytics and machine learning applications. The language is extensible and runs on many operating systems. Many large companies have adopted R in order to analyze their massive data sets, so programmers who know R are in great demand. 

Drawbacks: R does not have the strict programming guidelines of older and more established languages. 

Common uses: R is primarily used in statistical software products. 

9. Swift

Number of jobs: 1,800

Average annual salary: $93,000 

Benefits: Swift is Apple’s language for developing applications for Mac computers and Apple’s mobile devices, including the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Like many modern programming languages, Swift has a highly readable syntax, runs code quickly, and can be used for both client-side and server-side development. 

Drawbacks: Swift can only be used on newer versions of iOS 7 and will not work with older applications. As a newer programming language, the code can be unstable at times, and there are fewer third-party resources available to programmers.

Common uses: Swift is used for iOS and macOS applications. 

10. PHP

Number of jobs: 7,000

Average annual salary: $81,000

Benefits: PHP is widely used for server-side web development, when a website frequently requests information from a server. As an older language, PHP benefits from a large ecosystem of users who have produced frameworks, libraries, and automation tools to make the programming language easier to use. PHP code is also easy to debug.

Drawbacks: As Python and JavaScript have gained popularity, PHP’s popularity has dropped. PHP is also known for its security vulnerabilities. According to Indeed, most PHP programmers take short-term roles that last less than one year.

Common uses: PHP is the code running content-oriented websites such as Facebook, WordPress, and Wikipedia. 

Is Python Better or Java?

Java and Python both have been at war for the top spot. Python has been constantly improving, while Java is used in significant organizations. Both languages do their jobs well, but certain microscopic features differentiate them. 

Java

Java is a high-level programming language that is similar to C++, but it is strictly a program-oriented language. It was made with the intention of write-once-run-anywhere language, with zero dependencies or glitches possible. 

Python 

Python is a dynamic, general-purpose programming language. It is a desirable option for Rapid Application Development, courtesy of its built-in data structures, combined with dynamic typing and binding. Python reduces the cost of program maintenance.

One of the benefits of Python revolves around how the interpreter and resource library are available for free on the internet. Python, therefore, becomes an excellent option for anyone not willing to invest too much in development costs. And, Python has fascinating real world applications.

Popularity 

Both languages have always fought for popularity. After the arrival of JavaScript, however, they have been in a close tussle for the best spot. 

In Stackoveer’s 2018 survey of developers, Python was crowned as the fastest-growing programming language after surpassing C++. Java reflected as a popular choice by many developers, even though the gap between both languages had reduced significantly. 

Syntax 

Python is an extremely dynamic language. While typing, the developer doesn’t have to input the variables. These are input during the runtime. This makes Python an easy language, almost similar to English. 

Another element of the ease with the language is that it does not follow indentation rules or enclosing braces. The result is a language that is beginner-friendly and uncomplicated to read. 

Java is diametrically opposite in this respect. It has very strict syntax rules, where you need to type in all the variables, and should there be an error or anomaly in the code, the program won’t run.

For example, in Java, to define a block or method with multiple lines, we need to put the lines inside of curly brackets. Whereas, Python allows indentation for writing blocks with multiple lines as well. 

Performance 

Both Java and Python are run by compiling the bytecode and running them on virtual machines. This makes both languages cross-platform, with no operating system differences. It might seem that both have similar performance, but there is a fundamental difference between the two. 

Java is characterized by static-typing syntax. With this kind of syntax, the compilation is a lot easier and faster than dynamic-typed syntax. It is less prone to errors and targets the platforms that it is aimed for better. 

Java also comes with a Just-in-time (JIT) compiler. This device compiles the bytecode into the native machine, because of which the compiled code can be called directly. This function primarily adds to the speed and efficiency of the language. However, Java codes are also quite long and can get difficult to understand.

Python vs Java performance: Having considered both languages against various parameters, it is not clear which language trumps the other one. 

Read Also: Programming Language Websites

Java may be a more popular option, but Python is widely used. People from outside the development industry have also used Python for various organizational purposes. Similarly, Java is comparatively faster, but Python is better for lengthy programs. 

Eventually, it depends upon the type of program a developer wants to create. If you consider the above parameters, and a language ticks most of your boxes, it is safe to go ahead with it. However, if you are beginning to foray into development, Python might be a better choice. On the other hand, Java will be the preferred option for enterprise-level programs. 

Final Thought

Nearly all coders have an insatiable thirst for learning new languages. However, knowing which languages are gaining popularity and can ensure a better career growth will help you prioritize learning them first. Use the information shared in this post to make an informed decision in this matter.