Racket vs Python vs Common Lisp: Which Should You Learn in 2025?

Choosing a programming language is an investment. In this guide, we compare three heavyweights in the "Dynamic/Scripting/Symbolic" arena: Python (the industry giant), Common Lisp (the powerful ancestor), and Racket (the modern language-builder).

At a Glance

1. Python: The Safe Bet

Python is ubiquitous. If your goal is to get a job tomorrow, learn Python. Its libraries for AI (PyTorch) and Web (Django) are unbeatable.

• Pros: Huge community, readable syntax, libraries for everything.
• Cons: Slow execution, Gil (Global Interpreter Lock), inconsistent design.

2. Common Lisp: The Powerhouse

Common Lisp is for those who want raw power. It is an ANSI standard, designed for stability and performance. It has the most powerful Object System (CLOS) of any language.

• Pros: Incredible performance (SBCL compiler), interactive debugging, stability.
• Cons: Archaeic tooling, fractured ecosystem, difficult syntax for beginners.

3. Racket: The Language Designer's Tool

Racket started as a Scheme but evolved. It is the best choice if you are interested in how languages work. Its macro system is vastly superior to Lisp's, and its documentation is standard-setting.

• Pros: Best documentation, #lang ecosystem, clean syntax, modern tooling.
• Cons: Smaller job market than Python.

The Verdict

• Choose Python if you want a career in Data Science or generic Web Dev.
• Choose Common Lisp if you are building long-running, complex systems and love optimization.
• Choose Racket if you want to become a better programmer. Racket will teach you concepts (macros, continuations, semantics) that will make you better at Python.