Top 5 Highest Paying Programming Languages [+Salary Figures]

Software developers have some of the highest salaries compared to various other professions. However, there are numerous options within the vast field of programming, and there are differences between each programming language. 

In the past year and a half, we’ve heard gurus discuss how artificial intelligence will take over human tasks. While this is partially true, there’s still time to adapt and learn how to use AI to our advantage. 

Instead of worrying about something external, it’s best to start learning new skills and understanding the current programming landscape. 

If you’re deciding what computer language to start learning or if you’re looking to upgrade your skills, this list should guide you and give you the proper knowledge to make your decision. 

Should you choose programming as a career?

Software developers write, test, update, and troubleshoot computer code. This statement holds true for many languages. However, different programming languages have different uses. 

We advise you not to choose software development as a career simply to achieve a high-paying salary. Instead, choosing a field you’re passionate about can make your learning experience much more enjoyable. 

Solidity is popular for blockchain-related programming. While software developers who know this language are among the highest paid, this isn’t the only metric. 

For example, if you’re passionate about game development more than cryptocurrencies, it’s probably not your first choice. 

In the same way, many people start programming because they have a specific need or an idea. For example, you get into web development because you want a good-looking portfolio website. 

Many programmers often have unconventional paths toward their skillset. Some have earned degrees, others have certificates, and some have developed numerous projects and are self-taught.

What are the programming trends in 2024?

Software development is one of the most innovative fields in today’s business landscape. New trends are constantly emerging, often driving innovation and progress in other fields. 

For example, the rise of AI has led to many changes in marketing and content writing.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning 

Artificial intelligence is one of the most important trends in recent years. 

While AI continues to advance, it’s not something that can replace software developers. Nor is it something we can rely entirely on. 

Instead, chatbots such as ChatGPT can help us answer specific questions or give us pieces of the code to use or as an idea of how a thing can be coded. 

Pro Tip: Always double-check the code that ChatGPT spits out. It’s not always perfect. 

No-code and low-code

Another trend is low-code or no-code tools. These tools aim to allow less-experienced developers to make good applications quickly. 

Why? They don’t require advanced knowledge. While frameworks allow programmers to write code without starting from scratch, no-code solutions go a step further. 

This trend is significant for beginner programmers, but it’s quite restrictive. While you can create specific projects quickly, there aren’t many customization options (read: functionalities). 

Remote work

The rise of remote work is a less technical change in the programming landscape but nonetheless impactful. Small and big tech companies are no longer restricted to hiring locally. Instead, they’ve tapped into the global market.

This expands your opportunities and getting hired. On the other hand, your competition is much larger than it was previously. 

Why are some programming languages paid better than others?

There are various reasons why some programming languages pay better than others. To start with the languages themselves, the complexity and the amount of resources one language has plays an important part. 

However, market demand has the largest impact on current salaries (and your salary expectations going into a job). 

There are, for example, many more Java and Python developers than Solidity developers. Because there aren’t a lot of individuals who know Solidity, the payment is much higher. 

Furthermore, SQL syntax isn’t as hard as several other programming languages, yet because many companies use databases, individuals with an understanding of SQL are sought after.

Some industries pay programmers much higher salaries than others. Regardless of the language, the healthcare, finance, or mining industries offer many opportunities.

Top 5 highest-paying programming languages

Without further ado, let’s break down the top five highest-paying programming languages in 2024, according to DevJobsScanner. 

1. Solidity

When it comes to blockchain and cryptocurrencies, many people need to pay more attention to the complex technical aspects of projects such as Ethereum. Created by the Ethereum Network team, this is an object-oriented programming language.

The goal of this language is to allow programmers to develop smart contracts. It has a lot of similarities to popular programming languages such as C and C++. Variables, classes, and other common programming concepts are present in Solidity as well. 

Besides being used as a core language for Ethereum, it’s also used for Monax and its Hyperledger Burrow blockchain. Solidity has yet to expand and be used for more blockchain-based projects. 

As for ‌salary, the median salary is $180,000, putting it among the highest-paid programming languages. While this is currently listed as the highest-paying programming language, it can change as market demand fluctuates. 

2. Rust

Rust is a general-purpose programming language first used in various browser engine projects. It’s a multi-paradigm with features such as safe concurrency, memory safety, etc. 

Besides the viral and widespread C and assembly, Rust is the first language to be supported in developing the Linux kernel. 

While Rust first appeared in 2015, it’s been adopted quickly by numerous institutions, companies, and individual developers. Just like Solidity, Rust has found a lot of uses in the Web3 and blockchain landscape. 

Solana, one of the leading blockchains, has been using Rust for its smart contracts. The median salary for Rust is $150,000. Regardless of the niche, Rust developers earn a significant amount over other developers. 

3. ABAP

SAP is a multinational software development company that develops enterprise software. One of its most popular is Advanced Business Application Programming, or ABAP.

It’s been around since the 1980s. ABAP is used in the development of specific enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship management (CRM), supply chain management (SCM), and other applications. 

A significant drawback of ABAP is that it’s not used extensively outside the SAP ecosystem. As a part of the large infrastructure, it utilizes logical database connections, Open SQL, internal tables, and numerous other special features. 

Although ABAP is a very niche language, the median salary for ABAP developers is $134,000. 

4. Go

Developed by one of the most impactful corporations in the world, Google, Go is a high-level programming language that important brands such as Twitch, Uber, Google, and many others use. 

Like Rust, Golang is a newer programming language, but it’s‌ quite popular. Why? 

The user-friendly syntax is heavily influenced by C but has features such as memory safety, garbage collection, and major structural typing enhancements.

This language is ideal for developing Google applications. It’s easy to learn if you know at least one programming language. It supports certain functional programming styles, and it’s fast. 

It’s becoming more present in the data science field. The median salary is $128,000, and numerous companies are looking for Go developers.

5. Swift

Among the in-demand programming languages, Swift is another example of a new language that’s experienced rapid growth developed by Apple. It’s popular for the development of iOS and Mac applications. 

The tutorials for Swift are widely available, and you don’t have to struggle to learn it. It’s faster than many other languages and is open-source. It has some technical downsides, such as poor interoperability.

The median salary for Swift is $125,000. 

Programming is an attractive career choice in today’s industry

Regardless of your skill level, this article provides insights into salary opportunities in the market. Remember that numerous programming languages are just as interesting and valuable as the ones mentioned on the list. 

You don’t have to choose the highest-paying programming language to have a high salary. Instead, select an option you find the most interesting and aim to be the best in. 

Whether you choose Solidity, Rust, or a language that’s not even on this list, strive to enhance your skills constantly. Compared to various other fields, software developers have much higher salaries. 

However, if you’re a beginner, try to aim for roles that’ll allow you to learn and develop yourself rather than the ones with high initial salaries. 

Keep in mind that the software development industry is constantly growing. A list of high-paying programming languages in 2023 won’t be the same in 2024. 

Sometimes, the differences in median pay can vary thanks to changes in the market. Even within a few months, there can be a significant difference between the top salary we’ve highlighted today.