Machine learning (ML) involves writing code that enables computers to make decisions based on instructions called algorithms. It's the driving force behind artificial intelligence (AI), and as AI continues to expand rapidly, opportunities for machine learning programmers are increasing. If you're interested in learning a new programming language, your first challenge will likely be choosing the right one. For beginners, this can be daunting. While multiple languages can be used for machine learning, you don't need to learn them all. The good news is that starting with just one language is sufficient to begin your programming journey.
But how do you choose among the many high-level languages? First, identify what you want to build. Then, select a language that's easy to learn, flexible, and has extensive libraries. Still unsure? No worries; we've highlighted 2025's most popular programming languages to help you narrow down your options.
Python
Python's popularity has continued to rise, surpassing languages like Java, C, C++, and C#. As of 2025, Python remains the most in-demand programming language based on job postings in the U.S. and is also GitHub’s top language.
Python features a natural language syntax that's less complicated, making it easy to learn, read, and debug. Being open-source, it's free to access and distribute, contributing to its versatile libraries.
Python’s libraries
A library is a collection of modules or code designed to perform specific operations. Some modules assist with graphical user interfaces, data analysis, and graphing, among other tasks. Instead of writing the same code repeatedly, you can import it from the library.
These libraries simplify a programmer's work, making information access fast and convenient. Given Python's large online support community, you can access numerous modules for any program you wish to write.
This language is valuable in the booming fields of data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Due to these applications, Python is expected to remain in high demand. It's also popular for web-based applications and can be used to develop mobile and desktop applications.
JavaScript
JavaScript remains the second most preferred language on GitHub. Approximately 95% of all websites utilize JavaScript, including major companies like Google and Netflix. This text-based language isn't open-source but is free to use.
It aids in creating interactive web pages on both the client-side and server-side. You can use it to create 2D/3D animated graphics, websites, presentations, web applications, art, games, and more. Additionally, it's useful for developing non-web apps like mobile and smartwatch applications.
JavaScript is highly compatible with many operating systems and browsers. Web browsers can interpret JavaScript, eliminating the need for a compiler. It includes many reusable functions, such as code for retrieving the time and date and validating online forms.
You can enhance JavaScript's capabilities by utilizing its extensive libraries. These libraries contain code designed for specific and often complex operations, simplifying your work and reducing the need for in-depth study.
R
R is an open-source programming language used for statistical analysis and serves as an excellent alternative to traditional languages like Stata, SAS, and SPSS. R helps visualize statistical data through graphics and is employed by large companies such as Google and Facebook. As open-source software, it's free to download and use.
In advanced statistics, R surpasses Python. While Python is a general-purpose programming language that takes a general approach to statistics, R is capable of in-depth statistical analysis. However, R is more challenging to learn than Python.
Applications of R include data mining, time series analysis, regression analysis, stock-market modeling, risk assessment, and simulation. It's also beneficial for organizations that need to collect and analyze customer data, such as those in healthcare, e-commerce, social media, and finance.
Java
Java ranks as the third most used language on GitHub. This object-oriented programming language is an improvement over C and C++, eliminating many of the errors associated with those languages. It's also easy to learn, being a high-level language with simple syntax.
Java code consists of methods and classes. Methods are blocks of code that execute when called; a collection of methods forms a class. Java's motto is "write once, run anywhere," meaning you can run it on any machine, making it one of the best programming languages.
Some of Java's features include exception handling and garbage collection. Its applications encompass mobile apps, web development, games, graphical user interfaces (GUIs), and embedded electronics.
C++
C++ is a general-purpose, powerful, and widely used programming language. It's a multi-paradigm language, supporting procedural, functional, and object-oriented programming approaches. As a middle-level language, it combines features of both low-level and high-level programming languages.
C++ is used to create various applications, especially for business purposes, such as Microsoft Office. You can also use it to build games, operating systems, browsers, and many other applications. C++ applications are fast and can run on various platforms like Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Choosing the Right Machine Learning Language
The five languages highlighted above are currently among the best options for machine learning. However, it's advisable to focus on one language and become proficient before exploring others. R and JavaScript are specialized languages, ideal for statistics and web development, respectively. Python, C++, and Java are general-purpose programming languages used to build a wide range of applications.
If you're looking to build a career using any of these machine learning languages, Ironhack is here to support you. Our Web Development Bootcamp offers flexible study modes, including remote, on-campus, full-time, and part-time courses.Learn from experts and, before you know it, you'll be on your way to building the career you love.
About the Author:
Juliette Carreiro is a skilled content creator with over five years of experience in SEO, content ideation, and digital marketing strategy. She has spent more than two years at Ironhack, where she developed in-depth articles on topics ranging from career growth in tech to the future impact of AI. With expertise across tech, hospitality, and education industries, Juliette has helped brands like Ironhack engage their audiences with impactful storytelling and data-driven insights.
