Is “Learn to Code” Still Worth It in 2025?

Remember when “learn to code” was the ultimate life hack? It was like the tech world’s version of “drink more water”—everyone swore it would solve all your career woes. But here we are in 2025, and the vibe’s shifted. Political analyst Ian Bremmer recently threw shade on Real Time with Bill Maher, saying “learn to code” is now worse than getting a face tattoo. Ouch! He backed it up with stats: software engineering graduates are facing unemployment rates of 6.1% to 7.5%, higher than the national average of 5.8% for recent college grads. So, is coding dead, or is there still hope for aspiring developers?

Let’s dive into the 2025 tech job market, unpack AI’s impact on coding, and figure out if “learn to code” is still worth your time. Spoiler: it’s not a simple yes or no, but we’ll break it down Blurbify-style—clear, fun, and jargon-free. Ready? Let’s code (or at least talk about it)!

Is “Learn to Code” Still Worth It in 2025?

• Key Points:
  • The tech job market in 2025 is tougher, with fewer software engineering job openings, but demand for specific skills like AI and full-stack development remains strong.
  • AI is transforming coding, automating routine tasks, but human coders who understand fundamentals and can work with AI are still valuable.
  • Unemployment rates for recent computer science graduates (6.1%) and computer engineering graduates (7.5%) are higher than the national average (5.8%), sparking debate about the value of coding.
  • Learning to code remains a worthwhile investment if approached strategically, focusing on in-demand skills and practical experience.
  • Opinions are divided: some argue coding is no longer a golden ticket, while others emphasize its enduring relevance in a tech-driven world.

Why the Question Matters

In 2025, the phrase “learn to code” is under scrutiny. Once hailed as a surefire path to a lucrative career, it’s now being questioned by experts like Ian Bremmer, who claimed on Real Time with Bill Maher that it’s “possibly worse than getting a face tattoo” due to high unemployment rates among tech graduates. Yet, tech continues to shape our world, and coding skills are still sought after in many industries. So, what’s the deal? Is coding a dead end, or is it still a smart move?

The Job Market Reality

The tech job market is a mixed bag. Job openings for software engineers have dropped significantly—down by over a third in five years, per Business Insider. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 17% growth for software developers through 2033, suggesting long-term opportunities. Demand is particularly high for AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing skills, not just in tech but in sectors like finance and healthcare.

AI’s Role in Coding

AI is like a super-smart intern: it can write code fast but needs guidance. Tools like GitHub Copilot are reducing the time developers spend coding (only 25% of their day, says GitLab), but they’re not replacing coders. Instead, they’re shifting the focus to system design and AI management. This evolution means coders who adapt to AI will thrive, while those stuck in old ways might struggle.

Should You Learn to Code?

Yes, but with a plan. Coding isn’t just about jobs—it builds problem-solving skills useful in many fields. Focus on fundamentals (like algorithms) and hot skills (like AI). Practical experience through projects or open-source contributions is key, especially for beginners facing a competitive market. As Reddit users note, coding is still valuable if you love it and stay adaptable.

The 2025 Tech Job Market: A Rollercoaster Ride

First, let’s set the scene. The tech job market in 2025 is like a party that’s winding down but still has some great tunes playing. According to Business Insider, job openings for software engineers on Indeed are at their lowest in five years—down by over a third compared to 2020. Back in 2022, there were three times as many roles listed. It’s like the tech industry went from “we need all the coders!” to “uh, maybe hold off.”

But don’t pack up your laptop just yet. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 17% growth for software developers, quality-assurance analysts, and testers from 2023 to 2033—faster than most jobs. So, while the short-term vibe is chilly, the long-term forecast is warm and sunny.

Where’s the heat? Specific skills are in high demand. Lighthouse Labs notes that data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and AI/machine learning are booming, not just in tech but in industries like finance, healthcare, and even manufacturing. For example, Forbes reports that 60% of U.S. tech managers are hiring for AI engineer roles, up from 35% last year. Full-stack engineers are also hot, as they’re key to building AI systems.

There’s a catch, though. Companies are getting pickier. With fewer openings, they’re raising the bar—12% higher technical interview scores are now required, per Forbes. Plus, 28% of U.S. engineering leaders are leaning toward contractors, and 81% are hiring abroad, which means you’re not just competing with your neighbor but with coders worldwide.

Blurbify Blurb: The tech job market’s like a crowded dance floor—fewer spots, but if you’ve got the right moves (like AI skills), you’re still in the game.

Table: Tech Job Market Trends in 2025

AI and Coding: The New Power Couple?

Now, let’s talk about the elephant—or rather, the AI—in the room. Artificial intelligence is shaking up coding like a snow globe. Tools like GitHub Copilot and Cognition Labs’ AI software engineer are making developers more productive, but they’re also sparking existential questions. Will AI make coders obsolete?

Here’s the scoop: AI is already doing a lot of the grunt work. GitLab says developers spend just 25% of their time coding, with the rest on planning, testing, and managing code—tasks AI is getting scarily good at. Amazon Web Services chief Matt Garman even predicted in June 2024 that most developers might not code in two years. Bold? Yes. Scary? Maybe.

But here’s the flip side: AI isn’t replacing coders; it’s redefining their role. Think of AI as a super-smart intern who can write code faster than you can say “bug fix.” But even the best intern needs a boss to steer them clear of disasters—like coding a website that crashes every five minutes. Human coders are still needed to design systems, oversee AI output, and ensure it’s not just functional but smart.

There’s a worry, though, especially for junior coders. AI could gobble up entry-level tasks that are crucial for learning the ropes, leaving newbies with fewer chances to gain experience. As Jesal Gadhia from Thoughtful AI told Business Insider, “Junior engineers are at risk as AI could take training ground roles.”

So, is AI friend or foe? It’s more like a frenemy. It can make you faster and better, but only if you know how to harness it. As a Reddit user on r/chileIT put it, “AI will make those who know more efficient.” Translation: learn to code, but also learn to work with AI.

Blurbify Blurb: AI’s like a coding sidekick—super helpful, but don’t let it steal the show.

Is “Learn to Code” Still Worth It?

Alright, let’s tackle the big question: Is “learn to code” still worth it in 2025? The answer’s not black-and-white, so let’s break it down.

The Case Against Coding

Ian Bremmer’s face-tattoo jab hit a nerve because it’s grounded in some harsh truths. The New York Federal Reserve reports that recent computer science grads face a 6.1% unemployment rate, and computer engineering grads are at 7.5%—both higher than the 5.8% national average for recent graduates. Compare that to art history majors at 3% (VnExpress), and it’s enough to make you question everything.

Reddit’s buzzing with skepticism too. On r/learnprogramming, one user said, “Learn to code is bad advice now… Go to uni, study fundamentals.” Another on r/codingbootcamp warned, “You will not get a job from a bootcamp. End of story.” The vibe? Coding’s not the golden ticket it was five years ago, especially for juniors in a crowded market.

The Case For Coding

But hold up—don’t ditch your keyboard just yet. The optimists have a point too. Coding’s still a powerhouse skill, especially in a world where tech’s everywhere. The key? It’s not about churning out code anymore; it’s about understanding code and using it strategically.

For starters, coding’s not just for tech jobs. It can supercharge careers in data science, marketing, or even finance. Forbes notes that computer science grads in financial services jumped from 16% in 2022 to 22% in 2023. Plus, coding teaches you to think logically and solve problems—skills that never go out of style.

Reddit’s got some cheerleaders too. On r/ChatGPTCoding, a user argued, “You need to understand what you’re doing… achieved by 1) knowing the fundamentals (algorithms, data structures) and 2) knowing how to design systems.” Another on r/learnprogramming said, “Web dev is and will still be worth learning. AI won’t take away web dev’s work.”

And let’s talk AI. Sure, it’s automating routine tasks, but it’s also creating new roles. Coders who can design AI systems or fine-tune AI outputs are in high demand. As Forbes reports, 60% of tech managers are hiring AI engineers. So, learning to code isn’t just surviving AI—it’s thriving with it.

The Verdict

So, is “learn to code” worth it? Yes, but with a big asterisk. It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme anymore. You need to be strategic: focus on fundamentals, embrace AI, and build real-world experience. If you love solving problems and can’t imagine doing anything else, coding’s still a fantastic path. If you’re just chasing a paycheck, you might want to rethink your game plan.

Blurbify Blurb: Coding’s like learning to cook—you don’t need to be a chef, but knowing the basics makes life tastier.

Related: 2025 Guide: Exploring 9 Top AI Guides from OpenAI, Google, Anthropic

How to Learn to Code in 2025: A Game Plan

Convinced coding’s still worth it? Awesome. Here’s how to dive in without drowning in the 2025 tech sea:

1. Pick In-Demand Skills
   Go for skills with buzz, like AI, machine learning, full-stack development, or cloud computing. Python’s a great start for AI, while JavaScript rules web dev. Check out Lighthouse Labs for trending skills.
2. Nail the Fundamentals
   Don’t just memorize code—understand it. Study algorithms, data structures, and system design. Resources like freeCodeCamp or Codewars are gold for building these skills.
3. Embrace AI Tools
   Get cozy with AI coding assistants like GitHub Copilot or Repl.it. They’re like cheat codes for learning faster, but don’t let them do all the work. As a Reddit user on r/ChatGPTCoding warned, “Don’t let it generate the code for you—you won’t learn anything.”
4. Build Real Projects
   Nothing beats hands-on experience. Create apps, contribute to open-source on GitHub, or build a portfolio site. It’s your proof you can walk the talk.
5. Stay Adaptable
   Tech’s a moving target. Keep learning, experiment with new tools, and don’t fear pivoting. Follow DEV Community for the latest trends.
6. Network Like a Pro
   Join coding communities on Reddit, Discord, or X. Attend virtual meetups or hackathons. Connections can open doors that job boards can’t.

Blurbify Blurb: Learning to code’s like training for a marathon—start slow, build stamina, and don’t skip the stretching (aka fundamentals).

Table: Tips for Learning to Code in 2025

Real-World Examples: Coders Thriving in 2025

Need some inspo? Here are two hypothetical (but totally plausible) stories of coders killing it in 2025:

• Maya, the AI-Assisted Web Dev: Maya, a 28-year-old former marketer, learned JavaScript and React through freeCodeCamp. She built a portfolio of AI-powered web apps using GitHub Copilot and landed a freelance gig with a startup. Her secret? Combining coding with her marketing know-how to create user-friendly sites.
• Liam, the Self-Taught AI Engineer: Liam, a 22-year-old college dropout, taught himself Python and machine learning via Coursera. He contributed to open-source AI projects on GitHub, caught the eye of a fintech firm, and now works on AI-driven trading models. His edge? Deep fundamentals and a knack for tweaking AI outputs.

These stories show that coding’s still a launchpad—if you play your cards right.

Conclusion: Code Smart, Win Big

So, is “learn to code” still worth it in 2025? Picture this: it’s like learning to drive in a world where self-driving cars are popping up. Sure, the cars do a lot, but knowing how to drive gives you control, confidence, and the ability to handle whatever’s on the road. Coding’s the same. The job market’s trickier, and AI’s changing the game, but coding skills—paired with fundamentals, AI know-how, and adaptability—are still a ticket to opportunity.

Whether you’re dreaming of a tech career or just want to understand the digital world, coding’s a skill that pays dividends. So, grab your laptop, fire up that IDE, and start coding. Just don’t forget your AI sidekick—it’s 2025, after all!

Blurbify Blurb: Code’s not dead—it’s just got a new dance partner named AI. Learn the steps, and you’ll shine.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. Is it too late to learn to code in 2025?
Nope! Tech’s always evolving, and there’s room for new learners. Focus on in-demand skills like AI or web dev, and build projects to stand out. Check out freeCodeCamp to start.

2. Will AI replace all coding jobs?
Not likely. AI automates routine tasks, but coders who design systems or manage AI are in demand. It’s like having a super-tool—learn to wield it, and you’re golden.

3. What are the best programming languages to learn in 2025?
Python for AI, JavaScript for web dev, and Java for enterprise apps are solid bets. Cloud-related languages like AWS Lambda are also hot. Try Codecademy for tutorials.

4. How can I stand out in the job market?
Build a killer portfolio, contribute to GitHub, and network on X or Reddit. Show employers you can solve real problems, not just write code.

5. Are coding bootcamps worth it?
They can be, but the job market’s tough for juniors. Pick a reputable one like Coding Dojo, and back it up with projects. Reddit’s r/codingbootcamp has real talk.

6. Is coding useful outside tech careers?
Totally! It boosts careers in data analysis, marketing, or even finance. It’s like learning a universal language for the digital age.

7. How do I stay motivated?
Set small goals, work on fun projects, and join communities like r/learnprogramming. Coding’s a marathon—pace yourself and enjoy the ride.

Sources We Trust:

A few solid reads we leaned on while writing this piece.

• Job Market for Software Engineers in 2025
• Predictions for Tech Job Market 2025
• Computer Science Majors High Unemployment
• Is Learning to Code Worth It 2025
• Software Developers Occupational Outlook
• Should I Learn Coding in 2025
• Is Programming Worth Learning 2025
• Is Web Development Worth Learning
• Learn How to Code in 2025
• Coding Bootcamp Worth It 2025
• US Computer Engineering Grads Unemployment