9 most popular programming languages for your business in 2025
Python, Java, C++, SQL… what are the most popular programming languages you should be using in 2025? In this guide, we rank and analyse them based on real business needs.
Top programming languages for your business by use case
These are the most popular programming languages in 2025, backed by data from reports like the TIOBE Index, Stack Overflow Developer Survey, and unique insights from building over 100 dev teams for our partners:
- Python
- Java
- JavaScript
- C#
- C/C++
- PHP
- Swift
- Kotlin
- SQL
1. Best language for research, data science, or data analytics: Python
Python is one of the most popular and used programming languages due to its approachable and high-level structure. It’s known for its simplicity in web programming, machine learning, data analysis, and scientific computing. It’s also extensively used in data science and artificial intelligence.
Developers in your organisation can use Python to build machine-learning systems for forecasting, enabling better future predictions through data analysis and modelling.
2. Best language for enterprise-level and Android applications: Java
Java is the best programming language for creating Android applications, enterprise software, and mobile apps. One of its biggest advantages is that it’s compatible with multiple operating systems, such as Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Renowned for adaptability, dependability, and security, Java is perfect for solutions like an app that helps users track their daily calorie intake and exercise routine.
3. Best language for interactive and dynamic websites: JavaScript
JavaScript is a programming language suitable for frontend and backend development. It can run on a user’s web browser to create interactive and dynamic websites and is often used alongside HTML and CSS to improve visuals. And with the advent of Node.js, it has also become a popular choice for server-side development.
A web developer can use JavaScript to create an interactive map that displays local restaurants and their ratings whenever a user hovers over a certain area, while a backend developer could use Node.js for the backend of a streaming app.
This language continues to expand with its growing list of libraries and frameworks — such as React, Angular, and Vue for frontend development, and Express, Koa, and Fastify for backend development — which can help speed up development.
4. Best language for Microsoft and gaming applications: C#
Microsoft created this language back in the early 2000s so it’s no surprise that Microsoft applications like Windows and Xbox are perfect for C#. It’s a general-purpose programming language that can be used to develop web pages, mobile applications, and video games, as it’s good for creating more immersive virtual reality environments.
With C#, software developers can use their imagination to create aesthetically stunning, interactive games. C# gives developers and game designers the resources they need to realise their vision, whether it be for an intense shooter or a challenging puzzle game.
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LEARN MORE5. Best language for high-performance systems and applications: C/C++
C++ is excellent for developing high-performance applications. This language is one of the top programming languages because it works best for developing operating systems and applications that demand a lot of processing power.
With C++, developers have low-level control over the hardware compared to other programming languages, allowing them to optimise their code for maximum speed.
This language is used in performance-critical software like financial trading platforms, where real-time data processing and rapid execution are essential.
6. Best language for building scalable web applications: PHP
PHP is a backend language that web developers use to create websites, but it’s also perfect for web apps, content management systems, and ecommerce platforms.
Overall, it’s a flexible language that allows developers to produce user-friendly web experiences. For example, it could be used to build a tool or platform that enables customers to choose their preferred designs and sizes for goods like custom t-shirts and place online orders.
7. Best language for iOS and macOS development: Swift
Apple developed the Swift language for their iOS and macOS systems. It’s a fantastic option for developers who want to create high-performance applications with simplicity and speed.
Swift works well with Apple’s Cocoa and Cocoa Touch frameworks, making it an extremely reliable and effective tool for building engaging user interfaces. A developer can use Swift to create a fitness app for iOS devices that records users’ workouts and offers custom workout plans.
8. Best language for modern Android development: Kotlin
When creating Android apps, Google and many other developers favour Kotlin above other programming languages. However, Kotlin is also useful in cross-platform mobile development, data science, and front and backend web creation.
Kotlin can be a fun and exciting way to explore the world of AI and ML. And because it’s compatible with popular ML libraries, it’s easy to use and develop these kinds of models.
9. Best language for database management and data querying: SQL
SQL is one of the most popular programming languages because almost every mid-to-large company uses it to manage relational databases efficiently.
Developers can use SQL to create web or mobile apps that rely on large datasets, like an ecommerce platform that tracks inventory, customer orders, and payment processing in real time.
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DOWNLOAD CASE STUDYSo, what’s the top programming language for your company?
The programming language market is projected to reach $303.03 billion by 2029, growing at 10.8% annually, with languages like Python and Java leading in popularity among developers and organisations.
However, you shouldn’t rely on popularity rankings when choosing one language over the other for your organisation. See, if you want to build an iOS app you’ll likely get better results hiring experienced Swift developers over C# professionals.
The question most tech and business leaders ask themselves is: where can I find the right tech talent if not locally?
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