Which Programming Languages Have the Best Longevity?
Posted March 8th, 2018
When it comes to longevity, not every programming language is the same. Some have remained relevant for decades while others only appeared to be flashes in a pan.
Figuring out which programming languages are worth learning, however, can make a significant difference in your career. By choosing the ideal options, you can position yourself to be just as in-demand tomorrow as you are today.
While there is no guarantee that any language will be around forever, certain ones have more potential for longevity than others. If you are wondering which ones you should consider learning, here are some that are poised to stand the test of time and some that aren’t.
Programming Languages with Known Staying Power
Between 2012 and 2018, a handful of programming languages have stayed remarkably stable in regards to demand and use, even through major technological advances.
At the top of the rankings is JavaScript, a language that is prized for its adaptability and is widely used across multiple platforms. In fact, more lines of code are written using JavaScript on a daily basis than any other programming language.
Rounding out the top five are Java, Python, PHP, and C#. All of them have remained in similar positions in the rankings, showing their potential staying power.
C++, CSS, Ruby, and C have also been largely stable.
Languages with Potential
Certain programming languages have consistently grown in popularity and may have the potential for strong longevity, particularly those that are receiving support from developers and companies alike.
For example, thanks to its potential in iOS, Swift has risen through the ranks as a favorite language, and may effectively replace Objective-C.
Programming Languages with Questionable Longevity
Some languages haven’t gained the same level of traction as others, even if small portions of the developer community are adamant about their potential. This has led to some volatility and, if their current supporters abandon the language, they may even fall into obscurity.
Many of those who might not stand the test of time are specialized languages that don’t offer the same amount of flexibility as others. For example, Go, Haskell, R, and Perl could all qualify in this category.
Now, this doesn’t mean those languages are doomed, just that their future isn’t as clear as some others.
Ultimately, learning many of the popular languages like JavaScript and C# is typically a wise move, and picking up a few specialized languages based on your job can be a necessity. However, it always pays to keep an eye on emerging trends in your field and being open to acquiring a new language should the need arise, as some companies look to get ahead of the competition by adopting new technologies as early as possible.
If you are seeking out a new opportunity, the experienced team at Bayside Solutions can connect you with some of the area’s top employers. Contact us today to learn about our current vacancies and see how our services can help you take the next step in your career.
