Top 10 Highest Paying Programming Languages In India [2024] | upGrad blog (2024)

Programmers and Developers are among the highest-paid professionals in the world. They earn six-figure annual salary packages in countries like the US, Canada, UK, Germany, Israel, Australia, Denmark, Japan, India, and China. While the profession is highly promising with handsome salary compensation, some programming languages are associated with higher salaries than others.

In February 2020, Stack Overflow conducted a survey comprising over 65,000 respondents regarding their programming languages and their corresponding salaries. Through the survey, Stack Overflow collected developers/programmers’ median wages across the globe and then compiled a list of the highest paying programming languages based on those responses.

Today’s post is all about the highest paying programming languages that can take your IT career to the next level. So, if you wish to know more about the highest paid programming languages in the market right now, keep reading!

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Top 10 Highest Paid Programming Languages to Look Out For

1. Scala

Scala is a type-safe JVM language that combines object-oriented and functional programming aspects into a unique high-level language. This is what makes Scala a concise and logical language. Scala’s static type feature eliminates bugs in complex applications, while its JVM and JavaScript runtimes facilitate the development of high-performance systems. Scala boasts of a vast ecosystem of libraries, of which Aerosolve and BIDMac are the two popular ML libraries.

Scala’s immutability feature enables parallel processing at high speed, and hence, it is rapidly gaining popularity for coding, Big Data, Data Science, and ML use case.

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Salary:

The national average salary for Scala is $115,446 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹1,007,861.

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2. Go

Go is an open-source, statically typed, compiled programming language designed and launched by Google developers in 2009. It was modelled on the C programming language to improve programming productivity in an era of multicore machines and massive codebases. Although a very recent creation, Go programming language is ideal for building user-friendly, reliable, and efficient software products.

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The Go programming language has become very popular among developers and coders for its simplistic syntax. While it has the static typic feature and runtime efficiency like C++, its readability and usability functions bear similarity to Python/JavaScript. Go enables high-performance networking and multiprocessing. The language even makes it to GitHub’s list of one of the fastest-growing programming languages.

Salary:

The national average salary for Go is $115,685 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹1,154,896.

Read: Top 8 Java Projects on Github You Should Get Your Hands-on

3. Objective-C

The Objective-C programming language was developed way back in the early 1980s, primarily to build and support apps in the Apple ecosystem – Mac OS X and iOS. It is general-purpose, object-oriented programming built on top of C programming language by incorporating elements of Smalltalk-style messaging to make it an object-oriented language. Objective-C supports OOP’s four core aspects, including encapsulation, inheritance, data hiding, and polymorphism.

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Objective-C remained the primary programming language used by Apple for its operating systems OS X and iOS and their respective APIs, Cocoa, and Cocoa Touch, until the launch of Swift programming language in 2014. Despite that, Objective-C is still an extensively used language for developing Apple applications. Since it has long been used, tested, and implemented across different Apple platforms, Objective-C is a stable, reliable, and mature language.

Salary:

The national average salary for Objective-C is $101,085 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹574,286.

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4. Kotlin

Kotlin is a cross-platform, statically typed, general-purpose programming language developed by the IT-company JetBrains. It is designed to be fully interoperable with Java. While the JVM version of Kotlin’s standard library depends on the Java Class Library, it’s type inference feature makes the syntax highly concise. Though JVM is Kotlin’s primary target, it can also compile to JavaScript, or native code (via LLVM).

In 2019, Google declared Kotlin as the preferred language for Android app developers, and ever since it’s popularity and demand have skyrocketed. Apart from its readable syntax and complete compatibility with Java, Kotlin now has the full support of Google’s ever-growing community.

Salary:

The national average salary for Kotlin is $98,763 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹466,347.

5. Ruby on Rails

Ruby on Rails is a server-side web application framework written in Ruby. It is a model–view–controller (MVC) framework containing default structures for a database, a web service, and web pages. The primary purpose of Ruby on Rails is to facilitate the creation of robust and legible programs, following the motto of “least astonishment.” It promotes the usage of web standards like JSON or XML for data transfer and JavaScript, HTML, and CSS for user interfacing.

Even since its inception in 2005, Ruby on Rails has heavily influenced web app development, thanks to its unique features like seamless database table creations and scaffolding of views to enable rapid application development along with useful development principles like convention over configuration (CoC) and don’t repeat yourself (DRY). The support of a large community of developers further makes Ruby on Rails a fantastic programming language for web development.

Salary:

The national average salary for Ruby on Rails is $91,876 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹799,802.

Read: Python vs Ruby: Side by Side Comparison

6. Perl

Perl is a high-level, general-purpose, interpreted, and dynamic programming language developed by Larry Wall in 1987. It was designed as a Unix scripting language for text manipulation and making report processing simpler. However, now Perl is used for a host of other tasks like system administration, web development, network programming, and GUI development, to name a few.

Perl borrows features from different programming languages, including C, shell script, AWK, and sed. Its syntax is very similar to C. Not for nothing, it is one of the most expressive languages! Perl is compatible with XML, HTML, and other mark-up languages and supports Unicode. Its database integration interface DBI supports numerous third-party databases such as MySQL, Oracle, Sybase, Postgres, etc.

Salary:

The national average salary for Perl is $93,368 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹847,995.

7. C#

C# is a general-purpose, open-source, multi-paradigm, object-oriented programming (OOP) language developed by Microsoft. It encompasses generic, object-oriented, functional, strong typing, lexically scoped, imperative, declarative, and component-oriented programming principles. C# is designed for web development, networking, and software development for distributed environments. Developers can use C# to build applications for hosted and embedded systems, from complex and advanced operating systems to niche systems with dedicated features and functionalities.

C# is a versatile language since it is ideal for developing a wide range of applications like mobile apps, web apps, consoles, back-end systems, etc. It also has a dedicated .NET Core machine learning platform, ML.NET, which is a cross-platform, open-source ML framework that .NET developers can use to build ML applications.

Salary:

The national average salary for C# is $81,999 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹646,535.

Also Read: Top 7 Exciting Project ideas in C For Beginners

8. Python

When there’s any talk on programming languages, Python always seems to make the cut. Python’s popularity is not only limited to the field of software development, but it extends to Data Science as well. It is a high-level, open-source language that supports object-oriented, imperative, functional, and procedural development paradigms.

Python is an all-rounder language – it is used for complex mathematical calculations, web development, machine learning, data analysis, task automation, among other things. What makes it immensely popular is its neat and lucid syntax. Besides having active and expansive community support, Python comes with a suite of resourceful ML libraries and tools, such as Scikit-Learn, TensorFlow, Keras, NumPy, and SciPy, and Chatterbot, to name a few.

Salary:

The national average salary for Python is $79,395 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹755,012. Learn more about python developer salary in India.

9. Java

Like Python, Java is also immensely popular in developer communities across the globe. It is a class-based, general-purpose, object-oriented language used to develop software, mobile applications, web applications, games, and web servers/application servers. It is now also used for creating Big Data ecosystems. Several large corporations and IT companies maintain a massive Java codebase with JVM as the primary computing environment. Today, Java serves as one of the main tools for developing native apps for the Android platform.

Java functions on the WORA (write once, run anywhere) concept. This means, once you compile a code in Java, you can run it on all platforms that support Java, without needing to compile it any further. It features functional ML libraries like Weka, Neuroph, ADAMS, JavaML, Mahout, Deeplearning4j., ELKI, RapidMiner, and JSTAT.

Salary:

The national average salary for Java is $85,086 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹709,387. Learn more about Java developer salary in India.

10. Swift

Swift is a general-purpose, multi-paradigm, and compiled programming language developed by Apple for Linux, macOS, iOS, watchOS, and tvOS. It is a beginner-friendly language that is expressive, interactive, and fast. Since Apple Inc. engineered it, we can safely say that Swift combines some of the best elements of modern language thinking, which makes software development a pleasant experience.

Swift does not compromise either on performance or development speed – while the language itself is optimized for development at lightning-fast speed, the compiler is optimized for max performance. Swift’s lightweight syntax allows developers to express their ideas concisely.

Salary:

The national average salary for Swift is $97,271 in the US, whereas, in India, it is ₹585,671.

Check out:Highest Paying Jobs in India

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Highest paying jobs that you can get by knowing these programming languages:

Quality is valued more than quantity in the field of coding and programming languages. Therefore, it will not be a factor that how many programming languages you know. What will matter is, whichever programming language you are claiming to know, how much expertise you hold in it. Hence, you need to choose from the top highest paying programming languages and master them to get the best out of them.

In this article, you have already come across the programming languages with highest salary, now it’s time to know which jobs you can do to get that high income. Below are some of the best jobs you can choose from while knowing which language is best for placement in which role.

1. Web applications software developer:

As a web application software developer your responsibility will be to build apps for mobile, tablets, PCs and other such devices. Apart from making software from the scratch, you may also need to enhance an existing app/website by managing it.

If you are aware of the basics of programming languages like Java, JavaScript and Python and have the ability to collaboratively work with a team, then you are good to go!

The average pay of a software developer in India is around INR 5.4 lakhs per annum. However, with increased experience and credibility, one can even secure a higher pay up to INR 10 lakhs per annum.

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2. Machine Learning Engineer:

AI and Machine Learning are taking over the world at an unimaginable speed. Almost every industry is eagerly trying to incorporate these technologies of the future to make their work more efficient. In such conditions, companies are even ready to pay a handsome salary to suitable candidates,

The programming language that you need to master to become a machine learning engineer is Python. Also knowing some basics of CNN and RNN would be a bonus.

A machine learning engineer in India earns an average of INR 7.2 lakhs per annum. However, based on experience, skills and varied other factors, the earnings can skyrocket up to INR 20 lakhs per annum as well.

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3. C++ Application Developer:

If you are fluent in C++ programming language and are willing to build applications and websites suitable for all kinds of devices, then this is the job for you. As a C++ developer, one is required to collaborate with the stakeholders and identify their needs and then put into their knowledge in work to bridge those gaps.

You need to have a sound understanding of object-oriented programming to be a suitable candidate for this job. Apart from that, you also need to have a basic understanding of RDBMS databases like SQL servers or Oracle.

A C++ developer in India earns an average of INR 7.7 lakhs per annum. But the salary may range anywhere between INR 3 lakhs per annum to INR 15 lakhs per annum.

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4. Database Administrator

As a database administrator, one is given the task of storing, organizing, managing and securing and even troubleshooting a large amount of data that the company has acquired online.

The programming languages that are essential for this job include Python, Java, and Oracle (PL/SQL). The projected employment growth of this job role is quite high as the amount of online-generated data will only increase in the future.

The average pay of a database administrator in India is around INR 8 lakhs per annum, excluding additional cash compensations which can also be worth an additional INR 1-2 lakhs.

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5. Artificial Intelligence Researcher

As an artificial intelligence researcher, one has to perform a hand full of duties some of which include, managing and setting up product infrastructure and AI development projects, studying and inventing data science prototypes, building AI models of a new concept from scratch, training computer systems etc.

The two most important languages that you must know for this job are Python and R. Along with that knowledge of basic algorithms and other programming concepts is also required.

Due to the immense skills that they showcase, AI researchers earn a hefty amount of salary. In India, the average salary of an AI researcher with AI skills is around INR 16 lakhs per annum. However, they can also earn up to INR 50 lakhs per annum or more, based on their experience and skills,

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6. Data Scientist:

Data scientists primarily work on various structured and unstructured data and derive helpful insights from them, which then is used by different companies.

As a data scientist you are required to know data science, data manipulation, data visualization and most importantly programming, which makes all the other tasks such as deriving and processing data so much more efficient. A type of code can derive a huge amount of data in mere seconds which would otherwise take hours.

Data science is a high-income career path with great prospects. As a data scientist, one can earn an average of INR 11 lakhs per annum in India and even more abroad.

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7. Cloud Solutions Architect

A cloud architect’s responsibilities include curating cloud adoption plans, designing cloud applications and performing cloud management and monitoring. They also oversee the deployment of existing architectures under a cloud environment. Not often but they also may have to give their inputs in the legal areas of cloud computing and negotiate contracts related to cloud computing.

Programming languages that are commonly helpful for this job include Python, Java, and C#. Apart from that knowledge of cloud architecture, domain systems, TCP/IP, HTTP and infrastructural knowledge of main cloud providers like Google, Azure, and AWS is needed.

Due to the popularity of cloud services, a cloud solution architect in India earns hefty money. On average, cloud solution architects in India earn approx INR 19 lakhs per annum. Entry-level jobs pay around INR 4.8 lakhs per annum.

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8. Educator:

If you believe you have mastered any of the programming languages but also want to stay in the learning process, then teaching might be the suitable option for you. Education institutes these days are wanting to educate children about programming languages from an early age, hence, there are a lot of opportunities. Various EdTech companies are also searching for such candidates and are willing to pay INR 4.64 lakhs per annum.

However, you may also run your very own classes, which can later turn into an institution itself.

9. Freelancing:

If working for a single company does not fascinate you, then you might try freelancing, where you can work with multiple clients. Apart from not being as monotonous as a regular job, freelancing also comes with a lot of flexibility. You can decide how much you want to earn and how much you want to work.

A full-time software developer in India earns INR 5.4 LPA whereas a freelance software developer in India earns an average of INR 7.2 LPA.

10. Start-up:

If you are brave and dedicated enough and also want to keep making money in the longer run, this option is for you. Python will be the best language you can master. All you need to do is find a field where you want to apply Python like ML, Web development etc, and then create a meaningful product.

If you are an active freelancer, you can also build an agency out of it by hiring people of your expertise and sharing your workload. Around 20 to 30 clients will be ideal to make your freelancing career into a startup.

Tips For Career Advancement For Aspiring Programmers

Here are some tips for career advancement for aspiring programmers to progress within their chosen programming language:

Continuous Learning: To have a mindset of continuous learning is fundamental in programming. Stay ahead of the latest industry trends, updates in programming languages, and emerging frameworks.

Engage with resources like online courses, tutorials, and reputable blogs. Attend workshops, webinars, or conferences to immerse yourself in discussions on cutting-edge practices, tools, and methodologies.

This continual pursuit of knowledge not only keeps you updated but also fosters a deeper understanding of evolving technologies.

Specialization: In programming, specializing in a specific domain or niche can significantly elevate your career prospects.

For example, if you choose web development, you could focus on frontend development using JavaScript frameworks or delve into backend technologies. In data science, you might specialize in machine learning, data visualization, or big data analytics.

Specialization allows you to become an expert in a particular area, making you a sought-after professional in that field.

Contribute to Open Source: Engaging in open-source projects within your programming language offers invaluable benefits. It’s not just about contributing code; it’s about collaborating with a global community of developers, learning from their expertise, and sharing your own.

By contributing to open-source projects, you sharpen your skills by working on real-world projects, gain insights into best practices, and refine your coding abilities through peer review.

Moreover, it’s an excellent way to showcase your expertise, as your contributions remain publicly visible and accessible to potential employers or collaborators.

Networking: Cultivating a robust network within the programming community is invaluable. Actively engage in forums, attend meetups, and participate in online communities like GitHub or Stack Overflow.

Networking isn’t just about expanding your connections; it’s about fostering meaningful relationships. Collaborating with peers, sharing insights, and seeking advice can lead to opportunities for collaboration, job referrals, and mentorship.

Connecting with individuals across various expertise levels exposes you to diverse perspectives and opens doors to potential partnerships or career advancements.

Build a Portfolio: A compelling portfolio is a programmer’s showcase of skills and capabilities. It’s a curated collection of your best projects, codes, and contributions. Your portfolio should highlight not only the final products but also the process, problem-solving approaches, and the impact of your work.

Choose a variety of projects that demonstrate your versatility and proficiency in different areas of programming.

A well-presented portfolio serves as a powerful tool during job searches, freelance opportunities, or client pitches, showcasing your practical skills and problem-solving abilities.

Certifications and Courses: Acquiring advanced certifications or enrolling in specialized courses related to your programming language can significantly enhance your credibility and attractiveness as a candidate.

These credentials validate your expertise and dedication to continuous learning. Look for certifications or courses that align with your career goals and the specific niche you aim to specialize in.

Whether it’s an official certification from recognized institutions or completion certificates from reputable online platforms, these credentials serve as tangible evidence of your commitment to professional growth and mastery of your programming skills.

Seek Mentorship: Mentorship plays a pivotal role in career development. Finding mentors or seeking guidance from senior programmers can offer invaluable insights, advice, and direction.

Mentors provide guidance based on their experiences, helping you navigate challenges, avoid common pitfalls, and make informed career decisions.

Their mentorship can range from technical guidance to career advice, offering perspectives that help shape your professional growth and development.

Whether it’s within your organization, through networking events, or online communities, seeking mentorship can significantly accelerate your learning curve and career progression in the programming field.

Soft Skills Development: In programming, technical prowess is crucial, but equally vital are soft skills that complement technical abilities like:

• Communication: Being able to convey complex technical concepts in a clear and understandable manner is invaluable. Whether it’s explaining code to colleagues, discussing project requirements with clients, or documenting your work, effective communication fosters collaboration and ensures everyone is on the same page.
• Teamwork: Programming often involves working in teams, contributing to group projects, and collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Strong teamwork skills enable you to collaborate seamlessly, leverage collective strengths, and collectively tackle complex challenges.
• Problem-Solving: As a programmer, problem-solving is at the core of your role. The ability to approach issues systematically, analyze them, and devise effective solutions is fundamental. This skill not only helps in debugging code but also in identifying efficient ways to optimize and innovate.
• Time Management: Efficiently managing time is crucial in meeting project deadlines and handling multiple tasks. Prioritizing assignments, allocating time for research and development, and adhering to project schedules are essential skills that contribute to your success as a programmer.

Wrapping up

Now that you know which are the trending and highest paid programming languages in the job market, you can upgrade your skillset to include at least one (better if multiple!) of these high paying programming languages.

If you’re interested to learn more about full-stack software development, check out upGrad & IIIT-B’s Executive PG Programme in Software Development – Specialisation in Full Stack Developmentwhich is designed for working professionals and offers 500+ hours of rigorous training, 9+ projects and assignments, IIIT-B Alumni status, practical hands-on capstone projects & job assistance with top firms.