10 of the most in-demand coding languages and their uses

Updated 21 March 2023

Understanding coding languages is a valuable skill that's consistently in high demand in the job market. Having basic coding skills can be beneficial for anyone and can help you advance your career and drive growth for the companies you work for. As there are many types of code that serve different purposes, it can be helpful to learn a language that's best suited to your role or objectives. In this article, we highlight some of the most in-demand coding languages, describe their benefits and provide information about what these languages achieve.

What are coding languages?

Coding languages used for programming are a distinct set of text and characters which give specific instructions to direct the behaviour of computer programs. All software and programmable machines use a coding language to give directions to their system. These languages allow computers to quickly and efficiently process large pieces of information and create complex algorithms for programs.

Thousands of different programming languages exist which allow programmers to communicate with a computer. It can be helpful for programmers to learn multiple languages to help themselves advance their careers. Different roles, companies and software also often require users to understand and use different programming languages.
Related: Common programmer interview questions (with sample answers)

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Most in-demand code languages

Some code languages have more widespread use throughout the programming field. This makes them more in demand and prominent in the job market. The more popular and common a coding language is, the more likely it is that employers may require developers to learn and use these languages at work. These languages may become popular for various reasons, including:

ease of use for developers
integration with other languages
productivity of the language
simple, concise language
open-source availability

Here are 10 of the most in-demand code languages:

1. Python

Python is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. Many large tech businesses and start-ups use Python to build their platforms. Despite being a high-level programming language, many users consider it to be one of the easiest languages to learn for beginners. Its features include:

simple programming syntax and code readability
integration with other popular programming languages
object-oriented language

The benefits of Python include:

functions in many industries and organisations
focuses on designer experience and usability
integration with C and C++ for more challenging tasks
highly productive, requiring less time, effort and code to perform operations
interactive qualities, allowing programmers to test code as they go
rich set of libraries and frameworks
ideal for both beginners and experienced coders

Common uses of Python:

data science
data analysis
artificial intelligence
deep learning
enterprise and business applications
web frameworks and applications
task automation

2. JavaScript

JavaScript consistently ranks as one of the most commonly used code languages in the world. Many programmers use this language to create web pages and add interactive elements to pages. JavaScript is a highly diverse language that allows programmers to code fully functional websites, video games, animated graphics and more. Its features include:

multi-platform, able to run on most operating systems and web browsers
integration with a wide variety of add-ons to extend its functionality
client-side validation

The benefits of JavaScript include:

cross-platform usability
built-in interactive JavaScript interpreter in all modern browsers
event-driven programming
large support community and access to JQuery, a comprehensive JavaScript library
intuitive foundational language for beginners

Common uses of JavaScript:

web development
mobile app development
game development
building web servers
serverless computing

3. Java

Java is a general-purpose programming language described as a ‘write once, run anywhere' language, referring to its ability to work on all common operating systems. Many global companies use Java to build their platforms and support their back-end systems. Java is also the basis for most Android operating systems. Its features include:

multi-faceted, productive programming language
application portability
uses Java Virtual Machine (JVM) software

The benefits of Java include:

cross-platform functionality, running on almost all operating systems
robust and secure with strong memory management
extensive network library and tools for developing applications
simple syntax and easy to learn

Common uses of Java:

mobile app development
Android mobile operating system
desktop GUI applications
Internet of Things (IoT)
enterprise application development
web development
big data technologies

4. C

C is one of the oldest programming languages that is still used today. It formed the foundations for many other advanced languages, including Python, C# and Ruby. C can run on any type of device and allows users to program hardware, such as embedded devices in automobiles and medical devices in healthcare. Its features include:

machine-independent and portable
compiler-based language
procedural programming language

The benefits of C include:

extensively used language found in most computer operating systems
powerful and rapid programming speed due to language efficiency
easy to debug, test and maintain
libraries with many functions
makes learning other languages easier

Common uses of C:

embedded systems in hardware
system programming
game development
Internet of Things (IoT)
industrial automation
artificial intelligence
machine learning

5. C++

C++ is an enhanced version and extension of the C language. It runs on multiple hardware and helps power major software. Programmers use C++ to create large-scale applications, including games and operating systems. Its features include:

dynamic memory allocation
machine-independent
multi-paradigm language

The benefits of C++ include:

portability and cross-platform functionality
powerful and rapid speed due to language efficiency
large community support with a wide collection of libraries and compilers

Common uses of C++:

system programming
game development
IoT
real-time systems
machine learning
embedded systems

6. C#

C# is an offshoot of the C language created by Microsoft for their operating system. C# is an improvement on C++ and a faster and more secure variant of C. C# remains popular for developing and improving web and desktop applications, particularly for Microsoft. Its features include:

fully integrated with Microsoft's .NET software framework
automatic garbage collection
multi-paradigm language

The benefits of C# include:

works across Windows-enabled platforms
rich libraries and frameworks available
extensive shared codebases, code library and data types
widely used general-purpose language with large community support

Common uses of C#:

Microsoft and Windows application development
server-side programming
software for popular platforms
desktop, web and mobile app development
game development
virtual reality

7. PHP

PHP, also known as Hypertext Processor, is an open-source scripting language. Programmers commonly use PHP to build dynamic and content-oriented websites and apps. It also helps programmers handle tasks involving information requests from servers. Its features include:

server-side language
integration with many major platforms
interpreted language

The benefits of PHP include:

used on all major operating systems and web servers
flexibility of editing
high level of developer control
rich libraries, frameworks and tools available
easy to debug
easy to learn and use

Common uses of PHP:

server-side web applications
CMS development
web application development
e-commerce applications

Related: What does a PHP developer do?

8. SQL

SQL, also known as Structured Query Language, is a database query language. SQL is the standard database language often used in other programming languages. Many businesses and organisations use SQL to access and manipulate information stored in their databases. Its features include:

standard language for relational database system
domain-specific language
consists of several sublanguages

The benefits of SQL include:

simple syntax
highly secure environment
scalability and flexibility
robust transactional support
analytical description of data
more productive language
highly functional, ideal for working with large pieces of data

Common uses of SQL:

database management
data analysis
client-server execution
sales reports
business management

9. R

R is the most used programming language for developing statistical tools. Many large companies use R to analyse and visualise large data sets. Programmers also use R for statistical computing in data-heavy industries, such as statistical analysis, machine learning and data mining. Its features include:

strong graphical capabilities
interpreted language
object-oriented language

The benefits of R include:

cross-platform compatibility
supports extensions and runs on many operating systems
large collection of libraries with a variety of applications
versatility and ability to solve problems in many domains
active and engaged community

Common uses of R:

data analysis
statistical computing and analysis
graphics
machine-learning research

10. Ruby

Ruby is a general-purpose language most commonly used for building web applications. Similar to Python, Ruby has many other applications, including data analysis and prototyping. Ruby runs on Ruby on Rails, one of the web's most popular development frameworks. Its features include:

implemented in C
integration with web development framework Ruby on Rails
multi-paradigm language

The benefits of Ruby include:

simple syntax and easy to comprehend
embedded garbage collection
focuses on high productivity
tooling and framework support
extensive coding community
ideal for beginner programmers

Common uses of Ruby:

web applications
data analysis
system administration
robotics
proof of concepts

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