Python's Rise: Python grew steadily from about 3% in 2010, then surged after 2018 as AI and machine learning exploded. By 2025 it reached over 30% on the TIOBE index.

Java's Decline: Java was the dominant language in 2010 at nearly 19%, but has steadily fallen as Python took over in education, data science, and AI applications.

The Crossover: Python overtook Java around 2018, and the gap has widened every year since. Many AP Computer Science classes have switched from Java to Python.