Top 5 Functional Programming Languages in 2024

With functional programming languages, you can create more easily maintainable software. Functional programming uses functions as values, which allows you to reuse code more frequently. When using functional programming, you create programs by implementing sequential functions. Through this process, functions return a consistent output value after receiving an input value, with no changes being made to the program. Read on to learn more about the most popular functional programming languages to help you get started in the field.

What is a functional programming language?

Functional programming differs from object-oriented programming in that functional programming uses immutable data, while object-oriented programming uses mutable data. Mutable data means that the data structures can change, whereas immutable data cannot. 

The rise of big data and machine learning in recent years has made functional programming increasingly popular. 

Functional programming is great for performing analysis on large sets of data. It also allows for efficient debugging to quickly identify and correct errors. Additionally, since functional programming is especially effective for mathematical functions, you can use it in artificial intelligence, complex math function models, and financial programs.

Top 5 functional programming languages to know 

According to 2023 data from Statista, these five languages are the most in-demand programming languages with functional programming capabilities [1].

JavaScript

JavaScript is a procedural language, meaning you can use object-oriented and functional programming. JavaScript is great for building dynamic, user-friendly websites. You can use JavaScript in a wide variety of applications and careers. This language is most common in web, front-end, and back-end development. However, mobile application and game development careers also utilize JavaScript programming skills.

Java

Java is useful for building software that can function in several operating environments. Its versatile features allow you to manage data processing, run statistical analyses, and create visualizations more easily.

Python

Python is a multi-paradigm language that can support functional programming. It is beginner-friendly, which is helpful if you’re new to programming while also offering flexibility in terms of what you can do with it. You can use Python to perform tasks in many different disciplines. This includes web development, data science, cybersecurity, and more. 

TypeScript

TypeScript is similar to JavaScript, offering additional features, such as type safety, function overloading, and interfaces to improve the development process. This makes TypeScript easier to use. Additionally, it can run in any environment where JavaScript runs, including different operating systems and browsers.

C#

Although C# is primarily an object-oriented language, it has features to support functional programming techniques. With C# programming as part of your skill set, you can create several applications, including web and game development and Windows applications. C # is similar to JavaScript and other C languages, so if you have previous experience in those languages, you will find commonalities when learning C#.

Additional functional programming languages to learn

Several other popular functional programming languages to consider learning include:

Scala

The name Scala is short for scalable language, and this language blends concepts from both object-oriented programming and functional programming. As its name implies, Scala offers excellent scalability, allowing it to grow to meet your programming demands. This is because Scala takes complementary features from both object-oriented and functional programming, allowing you to create large systems or basic scripts.  

Haskell

Haskell offers several beneficial features for functional programming, although it is a specialized language with a reputation for being challenging to learn. With Haskell, you can write efficient code with minimal errors. It works well with complex datasets—even those with inconsistencies—and integrates with other tools for your machine learning projects.

Erlang

Erlang is a reliable option for building large and scalable telecommunications, banking, gaming, and distributed systems applications. It is also suitable for systems where high availability is a requirement.

Elixir

Elixir is an easy-to-learn functional programming language that offers flexibility when working on different cloud platforms. You can use Elixir for software development to build applications, embedded systems, web APIs, and more. Companies that rely on programmers with Elixir programming skills include Pinterest, Adobe, and Discord.

Ways to learn functional programming languages

If you’re ready to learn how to code, you should consider what you want to accomplish with your programming skills. That might be a specific career path or a project you’d like to complete. With this in mind, you can narrow your options and choose the right language. 

You have several options for learning a new programming language. One option is through a boot camp. Boot camps are short-term but intensive programs to help you develop the skills employers seek. You can build a portfolio to demonstrate your skills and experience during a boot camp. You can find boot camps both online or in person, as well as part-time or full-time to accommodate your time constraints. Such camps generally last anywhere from three to six months.

You can also find free resources online to learn different programming languages. This allows you to move through the material at your own pace without any financial commitment. However, with this option, you won’t have the same guidance and resources as with boot camps. Additionally, you will likely need to take multiple online courses to obtain the same level of information.

Getting started with functional programming on Coursera

Functional programming languages are a key component of many businesses’ web and application strategies and are used to create new applications across various industries. Learn more about developing these skills on Coursera, where you can find several highly rated courses to help further advance your functional programming skills.

Consider Programming Languages, Part A from the University of Washington. It focuses on functional programming to help you learn to program more effectively in several languages. 

If you’re new to programming, JavaScript for Beginners Specialization from UC Davis is an excellent introductory course to help you learn core programming structures and build skills through the progressive modules.