How Much Does It Cost to Learn Python?
Learning Python might not cost you a dime, or it might cost you over $55,000. It all depends on what your learning preferences are and how much you are willing to invest.
How Much Does It Cost to Learn Python?
This blog will go into detail on how much you should pay to learn Python, depending on the different learning avenues and how much value they offer.
| Learning Resources | How much can they cost? |
|---|---|
| Free Python Tutorials and Courses | $0 |
| Paid Python Certification Courses | $100 to $200 |
| Coding Bootcamps | $1,000 to $20,000 |
| University Degrees | Around $55,000 |
$0
Best for: self-disciplined learners committed to learning Python
If you are committed to learning Python, you can do so for absolutely free. All you need is a computer and an internet connection.
Being the most popular language, Python has plenty of free resources of top-notch quality, no matter if you are a beginner or someone experienced.
If you have the discipline and motivation to stick with it, free resources are all you need to master Python.
However, there are a few drawbacks:
- Free tutorials and courses can often lack interactivity and lead to tutorial hell.
- They can be unorganized and difficult to understand at times.
Here are the best resources to learn Python for free, depending on whether you prefer to read or watch videos:
- Text-based Tutorial: Programiz Python Tutorials
- Text and Video-based Course: Python Programming - MOOC
- Video-only tutorials: Corey Schafer's Python Tutorials
$100 to $200
Best for: those who want interactivity and structure from their Python resource
For around $100 to $200 (sometimes even less), you can find Python resources that offer a much better learning experience than free ones.
Paid Python courses, like our Master Python learning path, are designed to address the drawbacks that free courses and tutorials have. They:
- offer a more hands-on, interactive learning experience.
- offer more organization and structure throughout the learning process.
- do not beat around the bush about where and how to start.
Further, many even provide code editors in the browser, real-time assistance, and access to a community of like-minded learners. And almost all of them come with certifications.
If you are serious about learning Python without spending a fortune, you should try our Master Python learning path.
It includes everything you need to learn about Python when starting out — at as low as $10/month.
$1,000 to $21,000
Best for: landing a job quickly and money is no issue
Coding bootcamps are intensive, job-focused training programs where students acquire the most in-demand skills in the industry in a short time. They usually have a condensed curriculum but usually teach you everything you need to know for a particular job.
They also often assist in job placements, getting you into the industry of your choosing quicker than other ways of learning.
The main reason to stay away from coding bootcamps is their cost.
Depending on the curriculum and length, bootcamps in the US can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $21,000.
Other than this, bootcamps are also not great for those:
- who like to learn at their own pace
- who would rather avoid a fast-paced environment
- who are looking for accreditation
If you feel like you prefer bootcamps, start your exploration with this one:
- Software Engineering Bootcamp
(Covers software engineering fundamentals, including Python, JavaScript, and databases.)
Over $55,000
Best for: students who are looking for accreditation and ready to commit a significant amount of time
University degrees are the "traditional" method of learning tech. They require a lot of money and a serious time commitment — about $55,000 per year and usually four years.
However, unlike other learning methods, tech degrees do not prepare you in only one language. Their focus is much broader.
For example, you will not find a degree that focuses only on Python. Instead, they might deal with data science as a whole, including how to use Python in that domain.
Therefore, university degrees are not for someone
- just exploring Python
- looking to learn a particular language
- searching for ways to land a job quickly
They are for those able and willing to invest plenty of time and money into their academic pursuits and in no rush for jobs.
How much should you pay to learn Python?
Depends.
We suggest you do not spend a dime on learning Python if you can stick to free resources. Give the free resources your best shot before you even think about spending money.
But, if you have decided to invest a bit, you should not spend over $200. Within this range, you will find enough great Python certification courses.
As for bootcamps, plenty of people still pay for them. You can learn a lot quickly and become job-ready, which makes it worth the price for some people. But, if you are considering paying for a bootcamp, we recommend you do not spend over $5,000.
And, since we are discussing how much you should pay, university degrees are a no-go simply because they cost a fortune.
Final Thoughts
We recommend you always give the free resources a try before you spend any money. And if you are spending money, always start with online courses as they are the most reasonable option.
If you are looking for a great course to start your Python journey, you should start learning right now with our Master Python learning path.