Programming Languages 2026: Which are the five most popular and 46 free courses to learn them
The TIOBE index for January 2026 has highlighted the enduring popularity of established programming languages, with Python leading the pack. This perennial favorite continues to dominate due to its versatility and extensive application across various fields, including AI and data science. Understanding these trends is crucial for developers and educational institutions shaping the future of software development within Europe. Python secured the top spot with 22.61% of the market share, experiencing a slight decrease of 0.68%. Following closely are C (10.99%, +2.13%), Java (8.71%, -1.44%), C++ (8.67%, -1.62%), and C# (7.39%, +2.94%). These figures, derived from metrics such as engineer counts, courses, and industry usage, indicate the relative prevalence of languages rather than their inherent quality. This ranking directly impacts the European tech landscape by informing educational curricula and influencing hiring trends for software developers. The availability of free learning resources, like those mentioned from Cisco and MIT, further supports the development of a skilled workforce capable of driving digital innovation and potentially fostering greater European digital sovereignty.
Curated and translated by Europe Digital for our multilingual European audience.
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