The most in-demand programming languages in 2025: boost your employability

Do you know which programming languages will be in greatest demand in 2025? 

Knowing them helps you stay abreast of software development trends and the professional development opportunities presented by the IT industry. 

It also offers you the possibility of identifying those languages that will allow you to make better decisions when starting an IT project, and ensure its relevance and competitiveness. 

In this article, we analyze the characteristics most valued by the IT industry in programming languages and the most decisive challenges for 2025.

We also identify the programming languages that will be most used in the coming months and why. Cobol will continue to be one of the most used in the financial sector and insurance companies.

In addition, we discuss the employment opportunities that you will have by acquiring skills to program in Cobol. 

Features most valued by the IT industry in programming languages 

In 2025, the most valued features in programming languages by the IT industry are aligned with technological trends, scalability needs and the ease of development they can provide.

Taking into account this framework of analysis, we spoke with Martin Barrio, IT Patagonia Studio Manager Software, to analyze which are the most valued aspects in programming languages in 2025.

1) Optimizing the use of hardware resources (memory, CPU)

Programming languages that optimize the use of hardware resources, such as memory and CPU, allow you to develop more efficient and faster applications, maximizing performance on resource-constrained devices or in critical systems where every processing cycle counts. 

These languages typically offer low-level control over memory management and code execution, giving the ability to minimize unnecessary resource usage. 

Examples of languages that meet these characteristics are:

• C and C++, known for their manual memory control.
• Rust, which combines efficiency with security in resource management.
• Assembly, which allows absolute control of the hardware, although at a higher cost in complexity. 

Other languages such as Go or Ada are also used in applications that require optimization, especially in high-performance environments or embedded systems.

2) Ability to write code that works on multiple operating systems or devices

The ability to write code that works across multiple operating systems or devices is essential for developing versatile and accessible applications, reducing development costs and making maintenance easier. 

This is a benefit achieved by languages that abstract away differences between platforms, allowing the same code to run in different environments without significant modifications. 

Among the languages that provide this advantage are: 

• Java, with its motto “write once, run anywhere.”
• Python, due to its wide compatibility and cross-platform libraries.
• JavaScript, ideal for web applications that run across multiple browsers.

Other languages like C#, with .NET Core, and Kotlin, used for cross-platform applications, also offer you tools that simplify development in diverse environments.

3) Languages with advanced libraries for machine learning, data analysis and distributed computing

Languages with advanced libraries for machine learning, data analysis and distributed computing are essential in the development of applications that process large volumes of information and execute complex algorithms. 

These libraries simplify tasks such as data manipulation, creating and training predictive models, and managing distributed processing infrastructures. 

Python stands out for its simple syntax, which makes it easy to develop quickly and understand code. It also stands out for its ecosystem of specialized libraries such as Matplotlib, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras, Scikit-learn, Seaborn, Bokeh, Pandas and NumPy.

In addition, its large developer community ensures constant improvements, detailed documentation and support for Machine learning, data analysis and distributed computing projects.

Other languages such as R excel in statistical analysis and data visualization. While Scala, together with the Apache Spark framework, is ideal for distributed computing. 

The Julia language is also establishing itself as an efficient option for intensive scientific calculations. 

These languages are key for projects in artificial intelligence, big data and advanced analytics.

4) Have a rich ecosystem of libraries, frameworks and tools, along with an active community

An ecosystem of these characteristics Simplifies project development, accelerates problem solving and fosters innovation. 

Languages like Python stand out in this regard thanks to their wide range of libraries for artificial intelligence, data analysis, and web development.

Meanwhile, JavaScript, with popular frameworks like React, Node.js, and Angular, leads modern web development. 

Likewise, languages such as Java, with tools like Spring and its enterprise compatibility, and C#, with the .NET ecosystem, offer you robust solutions in different domains. 

5) Ability to handle multiple processes or threads efficiently, as an important feature for modern applications

The ability to handle multiple processes or threads efficiently is essential for modern applications that require high performance, such as:

• Real-time systems
• Web servers
• Parallel processing
• Scientific computing 

This benefit allows maximizing the use of hardware resources, reducing execution times and improving scalability. 

Languages such as Java and C# stand out in this area thanks to their native tools for multithreaded programming and concurrency management, such as the ExecutorService framework in Java and Task Parallel Library in C#. 

Rust offers thread-safe handling by preventing common pitfalls like race conditions, while Python, with libraries like multiprocessing and asyncio, makes it easy to run concurrent tasks, albeit with certain limitations due to the Global Interpreter Lock.

6) Support for blockchain, quantum computing or cloud infrastructure

Support for emerging technologies such as blockchain, quantum computing or cloud infrastructure It is crucial to take advantage of the innovations that are transforming different industries. 

Languages like Solidity are essential for developing smart contracts on blockchain platforms like Ethereum, while Python and C++ are widely used in blockchain for their versatility and performance. 

In quantum computing, Python leads with frameworks like Qiskit (IBM) and Cirq (Google), which allow developers to work with quantum simulators and real hardware. 

For cloud infrastructure, languages like Go (used in Kubernetes) and JavaScript (with Node.js for serverless applications) are critical, along with Java and C#, which dominate enterprise cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. 

This support allows innovation in cutting-edge technologies and adaptation to future demands.

7) Integration with automation and continuous deployment tools, highly valued in teams that prioritize DevOps

They are essential, as they facilitate the creation of efficient pipelines, automated testing, and frequent deployments. 

Python is highly valued for its compatibility with tools like Ansible, Terraform, and Jenkins, which simplify automation and infrastructure as code. 

JavaScript, with frameworks such as Node.js, is used for scripting and process management tasks in DevOps environments. 

Ruby, with its historic ties to Chef and Capistrano, is also a prominent choice, as is Go, widely adopted in building modern tools like Docker and Kubernetes. 

These languages not only enhance automation, but also enable seamless integrations into agile and collaborative environments.

IT industry challenges in relation to programming languages in 2025

The IT industry faces several key programming-related challenges arising from the growing demands of advanced technology and current market needs.

1) Security in development: protecting systems from common vulnerabilities and more sophisticated attacks, such as those targeting AI or blockchain applications

Securing systems will require languages that prioritize security by design. One example is Rust, which prevents common errors related to memory management, and another is Go, which facilitates the creation of secure and scalable systems. 

In the blockchain space, languages like Solidity will need to incorporate best practices to prevent failures in smart contracts.

While AI environments, dominated by languages like Python, will need advanced libraries to protect models and data from adversarial manipulation. 

This challenge will also require stricter coding standards and a continued focus on cybersecurity training for developers.

2) Support for emerging technologies: support technologies such as quantum computing, 6G networks, and infrastructure for the metaverse

Support for emerging technologies will represent a key challenge for the IT industry in 2025, as It implies that programming languages evolve to integrate these disruptive technologies. 

A process that will need to provide support for complex quantum operations and simulations, as Python and C++ do with their quantum computing libraries (e.g. Qiskit). 

Additionally, languages such as JavaScript and WebAssembly will play a crucial role in building applications for the metaverse, facilitating real-time interaction and integration with ultra-low latency 6G networks. 

For these emerging technologies to be accessible and effective, languages will need to offer greater interoperability, scalability, and flexibility, to enable the Efficient development of new solutions in a constantly evolving digital environment.

3) Complexity of data management: managing large volumes, ensuring their privacy and optimizing their processing in real time

The complexity of data management will be a crucial challenge for the IT industry in 2025, as companies will need to manage big data efficiently, to ensure its privacy and optimize its processing in real time. 

Programming languages will need to evolve to integrate more powerful tools that allow data to be managed and analyzed in real time, such as:

• Python with its libraries for big data (Pandas, Dask) and distributed processing.
• Java and Scala in conjunction with frameworks like Apache Spark. 

In turn, the growing concerns about data privacy will require a more rigorous approach to information protection. 

In doing so, it will lead languages to incorporate more robust mechanisms for cryptography and compliance with regulations such as the GDPR. 

In addition, languages will be needed that offer scalable and optimized solutions for parallel processing and real-time data ingestion. This will be key for applications in sectors such as healthcare, finance or the Internet of Things (IoT).

4) Optimization for sustainability: reducing the environmental impact of applications by focusing on the efficient use of computing resources

The optimization for sustainability will be a major challenge for the IT industry in 2025, as companies will be pressured to reduce the environmental impact of applications by efficient use of computing resources. 

This implies that programming languages evolve to allow the creation of software that consumes less energy and resources to:

• Optimize CPU, memory, and storage usage.
• Promote the development of architectures that facilitate energy efficiency. 

Languages like Rust, which prioritizes memory efficiency without sacrificing security, and Go, which is known for its ability to generate fast, low-power applications, will be key in this regard. 

Furthermore, languages such as Python, with libraries like NumPy for optimizing mathematical processes and Django for efficient web applications, will continue to be popular in developing sustainable solutions. 

This approach to sustainability will not only encompass the code, but also the Infrastructure and the Application Lifecycle, demanding best practices in its development and deployment.

5) Adaptation to generative artificial intelligence

Programming languages will need to evolve to integrate and optimize the development of AI models capable of creating content autonomously. 

This will require specialized tools and libraries that allow developers to efficiently deploy and train generative models. 

Like Python, with its libraries like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and OpenAI GPT, which already dominate the AI space. 

In addition, languages such as Julia, which is recognized for its performance in scientific calculations, and R, specialized in data analysis, will also play an important role in the training and optimization of these models. 

As generative AI advances, programming languages will need to provide greater flexibility, scalability, and efficiency, in line with rapid advances in machine learning and deep neural network techniques.

6) Lack of specialized talent: Finding and retaining developers with advanced skills in emerging areas such as cybersecurity, blockchain or AI

The lack of specialized talents will be a critical challenge for the IT industry by 2025, as companies will struggle to find and retain developers with advanced skills in emerging areas such as cybersecurity, blockchain or artificial intelligence. 

As these technologies advance, programming languages also evolve, which requires a deep understanding of both the tools and the underlying concepts. 

Languages like Python and Rust are gaining ground in areas like AI and blockchain, but demand for experts in these technologies will outstrip the supply of skilled professionals. 

This will require sustained efforts to invest in training new talent, creating more specialized educational programs, and improving working conditions to retain experienced developers. 

In turn, companies will have to foster a culture of continuous learning to keep up with technological trends and attract the best professionals in a highly competitive market.

Programming languages in 2025: which will be the most used? 

We analyze reports and rankings to determine which languages will be most used in 2025, based on the characteristics most valued by the IT industry. 

Among other sources of information we consider PYPL, Pluralsight, Crossover and GrowBy. Also to Tiobe Index and Codemotion Talent.

In addition, we take into account the current demand in terms of programming required by industries with high transaction levels and exponential data volumes, such as the financial sector, the retail sector and telecommunications companies.

1. Python

Python will establish itself as one of the most widely used languages in 2025 for several reasons. Among them:

• It is easy to learn and versatile.
• It has extensive support in data science, machine learning, automation and web development. 
• It has an extensive ecosystem of libraries (pandas, TensorFlow, PyTorch)
• Its combination of ease of use, powerful ecosystem and flexibility allows companies to optimize their processes and adapt to emerging technologies.

These features make it a Preferred choice for both novice and expert developers in advanced areas, such as data science, machine learning, automation, and web development. 

2. JavaScript (and TypeScript)

This language is essential for web development (frontend and backend with Node.js).

JavaScript is at the heart of interactive and dynamic web applications, and its use in frontend development with frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue.js, and in the backend with Node.js, continues to be a global standard. 

TypeScript, by adding static typing to JavaScript, offers maintenance and scalability advantages in larger applications. This has made it a An increasingly popular choice for teams that prioritize robustness and code quality. 

As emerging technologies such as the metaverse and 6G networks gain prominence, JavaScript remains a pillar for creating interactive, real-time experiences on the web, while TypeScript facilitates the integration of more complex and collaborative projects. 

3. Go (Golang)

Great for scalable applications and distributed systems. It is designed to handle concurrency efficiently and with a clean syntax.

Its focus on simplicity and speed makes it ideal for projects that require high availability and performance, such as web servers, microservices, and cloud platforms. 

Go introduces the concept of goroutines, which facilitates the execution of multiple threads in a lightweight and efficient manner, allowing developers to build highly concurrent applications without the complexity that other languages may require. 

Its clean, direct syntax also improves team productivity by reducing the amount of code needed to achieve complex results. 

Furthermore, its integration with infrastructure tools such as Docker and Kubernetes positions it as the preferred language in container and DevOps environments, where scalability and resource management are crucial. 

With the growth of the microservices architectures and the demand for solutions that can support the massive increase in data and users, Go remains a Ideal choice for modern, fast and efficient software development.

4. Java

Java will continue to be one of the most widely used languages in 2025, due to its longevity in the industry and its ability to adapt to modern demands, especially in enterprise applications and cloud systems. 

Its solid support for creating scalable and robust applications keeps it as a standard in sectors such as finance, telecommunications and e-commerce. 

Modern frameworks like Spring Boot and Quarkus enable Java to compete effectively in the development of microservices and cloud-native applications, thanks to its broad community and mature ecosystem of libraries and tools. 

Furthermore, the evolution of Java with new, lighter and faster versions, together with its integration with container platforms and orchestration solutions such as Kubernetes, reinforce its relevance in modern cloud-based architectures. 

Despite increasing competition from languages like Go and Python, Java remains a preferred choice for applications that require high stability, high performance, and a broad support base.

5. Kotlin

It will be consolidated as one of the most popular languages in 2025 for being modern and compatible with Java, in addition to having a design aimed at increasing productivity. 

Promoted as the premier language for Android development, it has achieved high levels of mass adoption thanks to its native integration with the Android Studio ecosystem and its ability to leverage Java libraries and frameworks. 

As mobile applications become more complex and sophisticated, Kotlin is emerging as the preferred choice for those looking for an efficient language with robust performance and a more streamlined development experience.

6. C++

It will continue to be an essential language in 2025, especially in areas that require tight control of system resources, such as developing high-performance applications and infrastructure software. 

Its ability to offer fine-grained control over memory and resource optimization makes it the preferred choice for performance critical applications, such as scientific simulations, real-time processing, and operating systems. 

Despite the growing popularity of higher-level languages, C++ remains irreplaceable in industries that demand speed and efficiency. 

Furthermore, its continued evolution, with the incorporation of modern features such as concurrency libraries in the C++11 standard and later versions, has allowed it to remain relevant. 

7. C#

Its integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, including the .NET platform, has allowed it to be widely adopted in corporate environments for Build scalable and robust applications, both in the cloud and on-premises systems. 

The evolution of C# into a more modern language, with features such as support for asynchronous programming and the introduction of functional programming patterns, makes it even more attractive to developers seeking efficiency and productivity. 

As cloud architectures and microservices continue to dominate, C# remains a reliable option for enterprises looking to Scalable, high-performance solutions in a modern, agile development environment.

8. Rust

Rust is shaping up to be one of the most relevant languages in 2025, especially in areas that require high performance and secure memory management, such as system development, infrastructure software, and high-performance applications. 

Its focus on memory safety without sacrificing speed makes it a great choice Ideal for applications that must operate at the hardware level or with large volumes of data, such as database engines, operating systems, and embedded applications. 

Rust has been gaining adoption in the development community due to its ability to offer the efficiency of low-level languages with the ease of use and security guarantees of more modern languages. 

Additionally, Rust is positioning itself in emerging areas such as distributed computing and blockchain, where resource control and code reliability are crucial. 

9. Ruby

Ruby will still be a relevant language in 2025, especially in web development and in enterprise applications that prioritize speed of development and ease of use. 

Its main strength lies in the Ruby on Rails framework, which has been a standard in the development of dynamic and high-performance web applications, allowing developers to create complete solutions in an agile manner and with a focus on productivity. 

Ruby remains popular for its clean, expressive syntax, which makes it easy to learn and write efficient code. 

Additionally, it allows developers to focus more on business logic rather than system configuration, which speeds up development time.

10. Cobol

Due to the focus and specificity it has for the development of commercial, financial and administrative applications, Cobol (Common Business-Oriented Language) It is widely used by financial institutions and insurance companies around the world. 

Its robustness, reliability, efficiency, scalability and compatibility for managing critical data processing systems has led these institutions to develop and maintain core systems that use Cobol for decades.

These attributes are what made it the backbone of the financial system, as an ideal language for developing applications that require high performance and low maintenance.

Why will Cobol remain one of the most widely used languages in the IT industry in 2025?

Despite being more than 60 years old, The Cobol programming language is still in use. 

That's what he thinks Adrian Duarte, Cobol Studio Manager at IT Patagonia, who states that, given the large number of lines of code, programs, transactions and technological solutions implemented in Cobol, the systems must be provided with corrective and evolutionary maintenance and, if possible, modernized. 

This market need generates the Demand for Cobol developers during 2025 and the following years. 

As Adrian explains, it is important to train in this programming language because today The market does not have the number of specialists needed to meet the demand.. 

In parallel, the most experienced people are mainly in the Silver generation and will soon be retiring from the market.

Conclusion

The IT industry is in a constant process of evolution, with emerging programming languages that promise greater efficiency, flexibility and compatibility with new technologies. 

Yet amid this revolution, legacy languages like Cobol remain critical to critical systems in industries like banking and insurance. 

This landscape poses a unique challenge: balancing the adoption of modern languages while maintaining the operational capabilities of critical infrastructures that rely on older but incredibly robust technologies.

In 2025, IT companies face the task of preparing new generations of programmers to handle both innovative languages and those that have been sustaining the global economy for decades. 

Preserving and modernizing applications written in Cobol, in particular, will not only help maintain the stability of legacy systems, but also drive an inclusive digital transformation that leverages the best of both worlds: the traditional and the modern.

Cobol Studio from IT Patagonia provides expert resources in analysis, design, development, quality control and implementation of IT solutions in Cobol language, on various platforms. 

Contact us for learn more.