Python is now the most popular programming language on The Past, Present & Future of Programming Languages • Kevlin Henney • GOTO 2024
By 2025, the open source world experienced a major shift in programming language popularity. Python has officially overtaken JavaScript as the most used language on GitHub, ending JavaScript's decade-long dominance. This change is deeply connected to Python's pivotal role in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science, two fields that are fundamentally transforming software development. According to the latest
Let’s take a closer look at how each of the top languages is being used and where they stand in the market. Python stands out for its unmatched versatility. It's a go-to language for AI, machine learning, data analysis, web development, and scientific computing. Tech giants are pouring resources into Python-based AI projects, which has further solidified its position in the open source community. JavaScript, though no longer at the top, remains indispensable in web development. In 2024, 62.3% of developers reported using JavaScript, and it continues to dominate in code contributions. Language Comparison Chart
Here’s a snapshot of how the leading programming languages compare in terms of market share, trends, and demand: Language Market Share YoY Change Key Domain Recruiter Demand Python 23.88% +8.72% AI/ML, Data Science, Web Development 45.7% C++ 11.37% +0.84% Systems Programming, Game Development N/A Java 10.66% +1.79% Enterprise Applications, Android Dev 39.5% C 9.84% -1.14% System Programming, Embedded Systems N/A C# 4.12% -3.41% Software Development, Enterprise N/A JavaScript 3.78% +0.61% Web Development, Full-stack Apps 41.5% SQL 2.87% +1.04% Database Management, Data Analysis N/A The data reveals a clear trend: programming languages that cater to AI, cloud computing, and modern web development are gaining traction. Python's rise, coupled with JavaScript's enduring influence, underscores the growing demand for tools that enable rapid development and align with modern computing needs. These shifts are not only shaping how developers contribute to open source but also redefining the technology stacks companies rely on to stay competitive. The programming world is undergoing a noticeable transformation as developers increasingly shift from older languages to newer ones. This change isn’t just about chasing trends - it’s about achieving better performance, stronger security, and a smoother development experience. Languages like PHP, Objective-C, and Perl are seeing a drop in usage as developers opt for more efficient alternatives. This trend is backed by data showing declining reliance on legacy languages and a growing preference for modern ones across various industries. The decision to switch programming languages is often rooted in solving practical challenges. Modern languages address long-standing issues, particularly in areas like memory safety. For instance, Rust offers built-in memory safety features that significantly reduce bugs and security risks compared to older languages like C and C++. Another major factor is productivity. Languages such as Python and C# simplify the developer’s workflow by providing high levels of abstraction and automatic memory management. This allows programmers to concentrate on problem-solving rather than dealing with low-level system intricacies. On top of that, modern languages often come with advanced tools - like robust package managers, integrated development environments (IDEs), and testing frameworks - that streamline the coding process. While older languages like C are known for their raw performance, newer languages strike a balance between speed and developer efficiency, making them more appealing for many projects. The shift to modern languages is evident in measurable activity changes. Take web development, for example: while PHP still powers 75.6% of websites in 2024, it’s increasingly being replaced by Next.js. Python’s popularity in this space stems from its clean syntax, extensive library support, and strong foothold in fields like data science and AI. Although this evolution is gradual, the movement toward modern tools is clear, especially for new projects. In mobile development, Objective-C has largely given way to Swift. Swift’s focus on better performance and safety has made it the go-to language for iOS development, with most projects now adopting it exclusively. In enterprise and systems programming, Kotlin has gained popularity over Java for Android apps, while Rust is becoming a preferred choice in systems programming - a space traditionally dominated by C and C++. These trends align with the broader open-source movement, where collaboration drives innovation and shapes language evolution. The rise of cross-platform development tools is also accelerating this transition. Statista reported that, by 2023, 42% of developers were using cross-platform solutions, reflecting the demand for languages that work seamlessly across multiple environments. Additionally, the growth of microservices - adopted by 78% of enterprises for greater agility - has created a need for modern languages that excel in distributed, cloud-based systems. Emerging technologies like sbb-itb-e54ba74
Open source communities play a pivotal role in shaping programming language adoption and influencing talent demand. These communities create libraries, frameworks, and tools that make programming languages more accessible and practical for developers. When a language boasts a thriving open source ecosystem, it attracts developers by offering reliable and well-maintained resources essential for building real-world applications. The collaborative nature of open source brings together diverse expertise, sparking advancements that closed systems often cannot achieve. For instance, open source projects not only enhance innovation but also improve code quality - lowering defect rates by 30% - while increasing developer proficiency by 23%. This elevated quality and skill level create a virtuous cycle, strengthening the ecosystem of a language. To see how this works in action, let's explore some key projects that have significantly influenced language growth. Certain open source projects have been instrumental in driving the adoption of specific programming languages by drawing in large developer communities. Take React, for example. This JavaScript library, developed by Facebook, revolutionized web development by offering reusable UI components and optimizing performance through reduced DOM manipulations. Its popularity has cemented JavaScript's position as a cornerstone of modern web development. Another standout is LangChain and Supabase, an open source backend-as-a-service platform. Supabase offers tools like real-time databases and authentication services, providing developers with a transparent and flexible alternative to Firebase. Corporate-backed open source initiatives also play a significant role. For example, Microsoft’s How Open Source Trends Affect Tech Hiring
Open source communities don’t just drive technical progress - they also reshape the job market. Contributions to open source projects are increasingly seen as valuable experience by employers. In fact, 92% of hiring managers consider open source participation a strong asset. Companies often adjust their hiring criteria based on the popularity of languages in the open source world, as thriving ecosystems signal both long-term viability and a pool of skilled talent. The numbers speak for themselves: 70% of employers now prefer candidates with experience in collaborative coding environments. Additionally, over 80% of developers report improving their skills through open source contributions, and nearly 60% have landed job opportunities as a direct result. These trends highlight how open source involvement not only sharpens technical abilities but also helps developers build professional networks that can lead to career advancement. "OSS systems are built by potentially large numbers (i.e., hundreds or even thousands) of volunteers. It is worth noting, however, that currently a number of OSS projects are supported by companies and some participants are not volunteers." This corporate backing creates a feedback loop: companies invest in the languages and tools that align with their hiring needs, further boosting adoption and solidifying their presence in the tech job market. By analyzing language usage trends, businesses can fine-tune their Crafting Ads Around Language Preferences
Building on these trends, businesses can design highly tailored marketing campaigns. Platforms that allow targeting by programming language, project roles, and tools are particularly effective. For example, Reaching Developers Where They Engage
To effectively market to developers, businesses need to meet them where they spend time learning, collaborating, and discussing their favorite programming languages. The most successful campaigns integrate seamlessly into these spaces, delivering content that feels relevant and non-intrusive. Platforms like Conclusion
Recent studies highlight a clear shift in the popularity of open-source programming languages. Python continues to dominate with an impressive +8.72% increase in ratings, driven by its widespread use in AI, data science, and web development. Meanwhile, C++ has climbed to the #2 spot with a modest +0.84% gain. Java also made notable progress, moving up from #4 to #3 with a +1.79% boost, while C# experienced a significant dip of -3.41%. These changes carry weight for businesses making strategic decisions. For instance, with 42% of recruiters actively seeking Python expertise and 41.57% targeting JavaScript developers, companies can align their hiring strategies accordingly. Rust, admired by 83% of developers, also presents exciting opportunities in system programming and cloud infrastructure. A key observation from these trends is that modern programming languages are steadily overtaking older ones, though established languages still hold strong in specific niches. Python’s success isn’t just about its popularity but also its versatility. As Ludo Fourrage of
Python also leads in educational interest, accounting for 29.9% of all programming language tutorial searches. On the financial side, developers skilled in Ruby earn around $134,000 annually, while those specializing in C++ or JavaScript earn approximately $129,000. JavaScript remains widely used, with 62% of developers relying on it, and Go powers over 12% of GitHub projects, showcasing its growing role in cloud-native and web development. For individuals, the data suggests Python as the safest language to learn, while C++ is steadily surpassing C for system programming. For businesses, the insights point to targeting Python communities for AI and data science tools and engaging C++ developers for performance-critical applications. Additionally, with 90% of companies utilizing open-source technologies, engaging with open-source communities becomes essential. Businesses that understand these language trends and community dynamics can gain an edge by reaching developers where they code, learn, and collaborate. To tap into these insights for https://business.daily.dev) provide an effective way to connect with active developer communities. Python has claimed the top spot as the most-used programming language on GitHub in 2024, and it’s easy to see why. Its flexibility and user-friendly design have made it indispensable across a range of industries. Python is especially dominant in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning - fields that have seen massive growth in the open-source community. What sets Python apart is its straightforward syntax and an extensive collection of libraries. This combination makes it an obvious choice for developers tackling cutting-edge projects, cementing its reputation as a cornerstone in today’s programming landscape. In 2025, Rust and Zig are making waves in the open source world, especially when it comes to system-level programming. These two languages are celebrated for their focus on safety and performance, which are critical for developing secure and efficient software. Another language that continues to shine is Go (Golang). It's become a go-to choice for cloud computing and backend development. Developers appreciate its straightforward design and ability to handle scalable, high-performance applications with ease. These shifts underscore the open source community's dedication to building tools that prioritize speed, security, and efficiency to keep pace with modern technological demands. Open source communities have a knack for shaping the way programming languages evolve and gain traction. They thrive on collaboration, creativity, and a shared drive to push boundaries. This is exactly why languages like Python and Rust have soared in popularity, as highlighted in recent industry analyses. These trends aren't random - they mirror what developers seek and need, making open source a powerful engine for language adoption. When it comes to hiring, open source involvement carries weight. Companies are on the lookout for candidates skilled in widely-used open source languages, as these match the skills in demand across the industry. For developers, contributing to open source projects does more than sharpen their technical know-how - it also puts them on the radar of potential employers. In short, being active in open source isn't just about coding; it's a smart move for career growth. {"@context":" is Python now more popular than JavaScript on GitHub?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":" Python has claimed the top spot as the most-used programming language on GitHub in 2024, and it’s easy to see why. Its flexibility and user-friendly design have made it indispensable across a range of industries. Python is especially dominant in areas like artificial intelligence, data science, and machine learning - fields that have seen massive growth in the open-source community. What sets Python apart is its straightforward syntax and an extensive collection of libraries. This combination makes it an obvious choice for developers tackling cutting-edge projects, cementing its reputation as a cornerstone in today’s programming landscape. In 2025, Rust and Zig are making waves in the open source world, especially when it comes to system-level programming. These two languages are celebrated for their focus on safety and performance, which are critical for developing secure and efficient software. Another language that continues to shine is Go (Golang). It's become a go-to choice for cloud computing and backend development. Developers appreciate its straightforward design and ability to handle scalable, high-performance applications with ease. These shifts underscore the open source community's dedication to building tools that prioritize speed, security, and efficiency to keep pace with modern technological demands. Open source communities have a knack for shaping the way programming languages evolve and gain traction. They thrive on collaboration, creativity, and a shared drive to push boundaries. This is exactly why languages like Python and Rust have soared in popularity, as highlighted in recent industry analyses. These trends aren't random - they mirror what developers seek and need, making open source a powerful engine for language adoption. When it comes to hiring, open source involvement carries weight. Companies are on the lookout for candidates skilled in widely-used open source languages, as these match the skills in demand across the industry. For developers, contributing to open source projects does more than sharpen their technical know-how - it also puts them on the radar of potential employers. In short, being active in open source isn't just about coding; it's a smart move for career growth.Most Popular Programming Languages in Open Source for 2025
Top Languages and Their Applications
The Move from Older to Newer Programming Languages
Why Developers Switch Languages
Old vs. New Language Activity Comparison
How Open Source Communities Shape Language Adoption
Major Community Projects That Drive Language Growth
Using Language Trends for Developer Marketing
Main Takeaways
FAQs
Why is Python now more popular than JavaScript on GitHub?
What new programming languages are becoming popular in the open source community, and what are they used for?
How do open source communities shape programming language trends and influence hiring in tech?
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Programming Language Trends in Open Source
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Table of Contents
- The Past, Present & Future of Programming Languages • Kevlin Henney • GOTO 2024
- Most Popular Programming Languages in Open Source for 2025
- The Move from Older to Newer Programming Languages
- How Open Source Communities Shape Language Adoption
- Using Language Trends for Developer Marketing
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Related Blog Posts
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