2024 Database Trends: Is SQL Still the King?

Want to know what database is most popular in 2024? In this article, I go through the 2024 Stack Overflow Developer Survey results. You’ll see why SQL is still top, PostgreSQL is on the rise and more developers are interested in SQLite. We’ll also talk about the benefits of learning SQL online, recommend resources, and how developers code outside of work for fun and professional growth.

The annual Stack Overflow Developer Survey offers invaluable insights into the developer community, shedding light on trends, preferences, and emerging technologies. In 2024, the survey drew responses from over 65,000 developers across 185 countries, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the industry.

This year’s survey focuses on three main themes: AI, developer tools, and why SQL is still king.

Most Popular Technologies

The 2024 Stack Overflow Developer Survey shows SQL is the second most popular language among professional developers, with 54.1% using it. JavaScript leads at 64.6%, followed by HTML/CSS at 52.1% and Python at 46.9%.

This highlights SQL's essential role in managing and querying databases. Its efficiency and reliability make it a must-know for developers, despite the rise of other technologies. Learning SQL is crucial for anyone aiming to excel in data management.

Source: survey.stackoverflow.co/2024

Interestingly, almost 40% of developers are learning or planning to learn SQL, emphasizing its ongoing importance. SQL's popularity spans various industries due to its powerful querying capabilities and efficient handling of large datasets. It's a staple in education, ensuring new developers learn this critical language. The survey shows SQL skills are in high demand, valuable for both newcomers and seasoned developers.

The Rise of PostgreSQL

PostgreSQL first appeared in the developer survey back in 2018, when only 33% of developers reported using it. At that time, MySQL was the top choice, used by 59% of developers. Fast forward six years, and PostgreSQL's popularity has surged. Now, 49% of developers use it, making it the most popular database for the second year in a row.

This year’s survey asked developers about the database environments they’ve extensively worked with in the past year and which they plan to use in the next year. PostgreSQL topped the list, with 48.7% of all users and an impressive 51.9% of professional developers working with it. This shows a strong preference for PostgreSQL among those deeply involved in database work.

Source: survey.stackoverflow.co/2024

PostgreSQL’s rise in popularity isn’t surprising if you’ve worked with it. Its robustness, flexibility, and open-source nature make it a favorite for many. It supports advanced data types, provides extensive indexing methods, and ensures high reliability and performance. Whether you’re managing large datasets or building complex applications, PostgreSQL offers the tools you need to get the job done efficiently.

The survey also highlighted other popular databases. MySQL, once the leader, is still widely used by 40.3% of all users and 39.4% of professional developers. SQLite is another favorite, used by 33.1% of all users and 32.1% of professionals.

Other notable mentions include Microsoft SQL Server, MongoDB, Redis, MariaDB, Elasticsearch, and Oracle, each with its own strengths and user base. But the clear trend is the growing preference for PostgreSQL, reflecting its powerful features and the trust it has earned in the developer community.

SQL and Love Is in The Air

You can tell how much a programming language is loved by how much developers enjoy using it and want to keep using it. In the 2024 Stack Overflow Developer Survey, SQL shines as one of these beloved languages.

Developers admire SQL for its powerful ability to manage and query data. It can handle large datasets and execute complex queries easily, which makes it a favorite tool in their toolkit. This practicality and reliability are why developers continue to find SQL essential.

SQL’s ability to organize and retrieve information effectively keeps it in high regard in a world driven by data. Its structured approach to data management is something that developers really appreciate, making it a key skill to have.

Source: survey.stackoverflow.co/2024

Analyzing the data about databases, this year, more developers want to use SQLite, with its desirability rising from 23% to 27%, surpassing MySQL. PostgreSQL is the clear favorite, being the most admired and desired database, with almost 75% admiration and 47.1% of developers wanting to work with it.

This shows a strong preference for PostgreSQL's robust features and SQLite's lightweight efficiency. Other databases like Redis and MongoDB are also popular, but PostgreSQL and SQLite lead in developer interest.

Online Learning Rocks!

According to the latest survey, online resources and e-courses are the top choices for learning to code. Almost 85% of developers are using these methods. This is much better than traditional schooling, which only 55.6% of developers rely on.

For learning SQL specifically, online courses like those offered by LearnSQL.com provide a flexible and comprehensive way to gain essential skills. For beginners, the SQL Basics course is the perfect starting point. It covers fundamental concepts and commands, ensuring you build a solid foundation. Once you have the basics down, the SQL A to Z track offers a full path to proficiency.

This track includes advanced topics and real-world applications, making it ideal for those who want to become SQL experts.

Books and other physical media still have a place in coding education, with 39.5% of developers using them. If you prefer learning from books, check out these recommended articles for some great SQL book options:

• SQL Books to Read
• Best SQL Books
• Best SQL Books for Data Analysis

These resources offer valuable insights and in-depth knowledge that can complement your online learning and help you become proficient in SQL. Want more? Here are The 50 Best Resources for Learning SQL.

Most developers enjoy coding outside of work, with 68% doing it as a hobby. Additionally, almost 40% code for professional development or self-paced learning through online courses. Other activities include contributing to open-source projects, freelance or contract work, or school or academic work. Want to develop? You can use one of the following resources:

• SQL Practice - a set of our practice courses where you will review and consolidate your SQL skills with tons of interactive exercises
• SQL Databases for Practice - this is a variety of databases for you to practice with. There are no guided exercises here. Instead, you are encouraged to explore the databases at your own pace, find patterns, and gather important insights from the data.
• Monthly SQL Practice Sets
• 10 Beginner SQL Practice Exercises With Solutions

Summary

Now is the perfect time to learn SQL. With data being so crucial in every industry, SQL skills are in high demand. If you're considering where to start, PostgreSQL is the best choice. It's powerful, flexible, and highly popular among developers.

Businesses are increasingly relying on data, making SQL a future-proof skill. Learning PostgreSQL will give you a strong foundation in SQL and open up many career opportunities. Mastering SQL, especially PostgreSQL, can boost your career in data management, analytics, and software development, keeping you competitive in the job market.

Still not convinced? You can create a free account on LearnSQL.com—no credit card required—and try our courses for free, all with a free trial! Do it today!