Python Trails Only JavaScript While Java Slips to Third in RedMonk Rankings, Its Lowest-Ever Placement
In the June edition of the RedMonk Programming Language Rankings, Python has secured the second spot, trailing only behind JavaScript. This marks a significant achievement for Python, as it has moved from a tie with Java for second place in January to claiming the position outright. RedMonk publishes these rankings every six months, and Python’s ascent is seen as a major win for the language, reflecting its growing prominence.
This is the first time since the rankings began in 2012 that a language other than Java or JavaScript has held the number two position exclusively. Additionally, this marks the first instance where Java has ranked lower than either first or second place. RedMonk attributes Python’s rise to its widespread use as a versatile tool in numerous small projects and personal scripts. Python’s role as a glue language for various applications and its strong presence in fields like data science contribute to its high ranking.
RedMonk’s analysis highlights that Java is facing unprecedented competition for developer attention. Although Java remains a crucial language for enterprise development and is expected to continue its importance in the foreseeable future, its dominance is no longer assured. This shift is also reflected in the Tiobe index, where Java recently fell to second place behind C after a prolonged period at the top.
The RedMonk rankings are based on data from GitHub and Stack Overflow. For GitHub, RedMonk examines language usage through pull requests, utilizing the GitHub Archive. Discussions and activity related to languages on Stack Overflow also factor into the rankings, providing insights into developer engagement and interest.
In addition to Python’s climb, the June rankings saw Rust making notable progress, entering the top 20 for the first time, landing at the 20th position. Rust’s advancement from 48th place five years ago signifies its growing influence and adoption in the programming community. Kotlin also showed impressive growth, moving up to 19th place from 68th five years ago, reflecting its increasing popularity and use in various development contexts