The language learning industry in the US includes online platforms, tutoring services, and educational apps aimed at teaching multiple languages. Companies offer personalized lessons, interactive tools, and cultural insights to enhance learning. As global communication needs grow, demand for language skills continues to rise, driving innovation in technology and educational methods. Recent trends point towards increased use of AI and immersive experiences, merging language learning with practical contexts. This accessibility is reshaping how learners of all ages acquire new languages, with many platforms targeting specific demographics such as children or professionals.

This list features 20 prominent language learning companies based in the US, varying greatly in size and specialization. While some companies, like VIPKid and Cambly, focus on one-on-one tutoring, others like Mango Languages and Rosetta Stone provide comprehensive courses across many languages. Founded between 1961 and 2019, these companies have established headquarters in major cities such as San Francisco and New York. The varied ownership structures, including private and venture capital, reflect different operational approaches in a fast-paced market.

Continue reading to discover the top language learning companies in the US.

Top 20 Language Learning Companies in the US

1. VIPKid

• Website: vipkid.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 51%, China 38%, Canada 4%, Other 8%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: vipkid

VIPKid is an online education platform based in San Francisco, California, that offers English language instruction to children aged 4-12 in China. Founded in 2013, the company connects students with qualified teachers from the U.S. and Canada, providing immersive one-on-one lessons. VIPKid operates on a flipped-classroom model, which encourages creativity and critical thinking among its young learners. The platform has served a significant number of students, boasting over 700,000 paying customers. In addition to its core English teaching services, VIPKid also runs Lingo Bus, a program designed to teach Mandarin to children. The company is committed to educational equity, having provided free English classes to thousands of students in low-income rural schools through its Rural Education Project. This initiative reflects VIPKid's dedication to making quality education accessible to all.

2. Preply

• Website: preply.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Brookline, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 17%, Spain 14%, South Africa 11%, Other 58%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $28.0M, July 2023
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: preplycom

Preply is an online tutoring platform based in Brookline, Massachusetts, founded in 2012. The company specializes in language learning, connecting students with experienced tutors for personalized lessons. Preply offers a wide array of languages, including English, Spanish, French, and many others, making it accessible to a global audience. The platform serves both individual learners and businesses, providing tailored corporate training solutions. With a significant number of tutors—over 44,000—and a strong emphasis on user satisfaction, evidenced by more than 300,000 five-star reviews, Preply has established itself as a notable player in the language education industry. The company recently secured $28 million in funding in July 2023, which underscores its growth potential and commitment to enhancing its services.

3. EnglishCentral, Inc.

• Website: englishcentral.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Philippines 39%, Turkey 36%, United States (USA) 7%, Other 19%
• Latest funding: $1.3M, December 2016
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: englishcentral-inc.

EnglishCentral, Inc. is an educational technology provider based in the United States, founded in 2009. The company focuses on language learning, specifically English, by offering a range of video courses and interactive tools designed to enhance language skills. Their services are tailored for both individual learners and educational institutions, making their resources accessible and effective for a wide audience. EnglishCentral's platform allows users to watch videos, learn vocabulary, and practice speaking, which supports a comprehensive approach to language acquisition. The company has a notable employee distribution, with a significant presence in the Philippines and Turkey, alongside smaller teams in the United States, Japan, and Brazil. This global workforce reflects their commitment to serving a diverse clientele. In December 2016, EnglishCentral secured $1.3 million in funding, indicating continued interest in their innovative approach to language education.

4. Mango Languages

• Website: mangolanguages.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Detroit, Michigan, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, France 4%, Cambodia 3%, Other 13%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mango-languages

Mango Languages, based in Detroit, Michigan, is an educational technology company that specializes in language learning solutions. Founded in 2007, it has grown to employ around 155 individuals, primarily in the United States. The company offers a wide array of language courses and cultural education resources through a user-friendly platform. Their innovative approach combines technology with proven methodologies, making language learning accessible and engaging. Mango Languages serves various sectors, including K-12 education, higher education, libraries, businesses, and government organizations. This broad focus allows them to reach a wide audience, enhancing language skills and cultural understanding. The platform is designed to facilitate effective learning, with features like a Daily Review System that adapts to users' progress. Mango Languages has not reported any recent funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model.

5. Pimsleur Language Programs

• Website: pimsleur.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pimsleur-language-programs

Pimsleur Language Programs, based in New York, New York, is a private company that specializes in language education. Founded in 1961, Pimsleur has developed a reputation for its effective language learning methodology, which focuses on auditory learning and conversational practice. The company offers a wide array of online courses, covering over 50 languages, and employs a subscription model that allows users to access lessons anytime, anywhere. Their services are designed for a broad audience, including individual learners, businesses, and educational institutions. Pimsleur's innovative features, such as AI voice coaching and interactive games, enhance the learning experience, making it engaging and effective. The company has also been utilized by various government agencies and Fortune 500 companies, indicating its relevance and credibility in the language learning industry.

6. Verbling

• Website: verbling.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 44%, Spain 8%, South Africa 5%, Other 43%
• Latest funding: January 2020
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: verbling

Verbling is a language learning platform based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2011. The company specializes in connecting learners with qualified teachers through online video chat, offering a modern solution to language education. Verbling serves both individuals and businesses, aiming to bridge language barriers in communication. The platform boasts a community of over 2,000 expert tutors, all with prior teaching experience, and provides lessons in more than 70 languages. This extensive offering allows learners to find teachers that suit their specific needs and preferences. Verbling emphasizes flexibility, allowing users to schedule lessons at their convenience, and offers competitive pricing, with lessons starting as low as $1. The platform also supports businesses through its enterprise solutions, providing group lessons and tailored language training for teams. Verbling has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model since its last funding round in January 2020.

7. Transparent Language

• Website: transparent.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Nashua, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, Germany 6%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: transparent-language

Transparent Language, Inc., based in Nashua, New Hampshire, is a language learning provider that has been operational since 1991. The company specializes in offering educational resources and platforms designed for language acquisition. Their services cater to a variety of clients, including government agencies, educational institutions, libraries, and individual learners. Transparent Language provides tailored solutions that enhance language proficiency through self-guided courses, tutoring, and comprehensive language programs. Their digital platforms allow for flexible learning experiences, making it easier for users to engage with the material at their own pace. The company also emphasizes support for educators and administrators, enabling them to monitor student progress and customize lessons. With a focus on practical language skills, Transparent Language aims to empower learners and instructors alike, ensuring that language learning is both effective and accessible.

8. Cambly Inc.

• Website: cambly.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 45%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%, South Africa 7%, Other 38%
• Latest funding: Series A, $15.0M, May 2018
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cambly

Cambly Inc., founded in 2012 and based in San Francisco, California, is an online tutoring service that specializes in English language education. The platform connects learners with native English-speaking tutors, providing personalized lessons and conversation practice tailored to individual goals. Cambly serves a wide range of clients, including students and professionals, helping them enhance their language skills for various purposes. The company operates on a subscription model, offering flexible learning options that accommodate different schedules. Cambly has been profitable for five consecutive years and raised $15 million in Series A funding in 2018, which underscores its viability and growth potential in the competitive language learning market. The company has also expanded its offerings to include Cambly Groups, making its services more accessible to students in over 150 countries, and Cambly for Organizations, which provides tailored English lessons for corporate clients.

9. ChinesePod

• Website: chinesepod.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, Netherlands 25%
• Latest funding: February 2012
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: chinesepod

ChinesePod is a private equity-backed language learning platform based in New York, specializing in online Mandarin Chinese lessons. Since its inception in 2005, the company has catered to individual learners, educational institutions, and corporate clients. With a library of over 4,000 lessons, ChinesePod offers a variety of engaging audio and video resources designed to enhance language acquisition. Their services include interactive exercises, vocabulary expansion, and grammar explanations, all aimed at providing a comprehensive learning experience. The platform operates on a subscription model, allowing users to access content tailored to their skill levels. ChinesePod has built a reputation for its innovative approach to language learning, focusing on real conversations and practical usage rather than traditional textbook methods.

10. Language Trainers | In-Person (Workplace or Home) and Online (Zoom-Meet-Skype) Language Courses

• Website: languagetrainers.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 30%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%, Australia 14%, Other 39%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: language-trainers

Language Trainers is a language training company based in New York, established in 2004. They specialize in providing personalized language instruction through both face-to-face and online courses, utilizing platforms like Zoom, Skype, and Google Meet. The company caters to a variety of clients, including individuals seeking to enhance their communication skills and businesses aiming to improve employee language proficiency. With a focus on tailored lessons, Language Trainers ensures that each course meets the specific needs of its students, whether for professional development, travel, or personal enrichment. They offer instruction in over 80 languages, employing qualified native-speaking instructors with substantial teaching experience. Their commitment to flexibility allows students to choose the time and location of their lessons, making language learning accessible and convenient. Language Trainers has served clients across multiple countries, reflecting their international reach and adaptability in the language education market.

11. Voxy

• Website: voxy.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 28%, Brazil 24%, Chile 22%, Other 26%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $10.0M, June 2022
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: voxy

Voxy, founded in 2010 and based in New York City, is a language training provider that specializes in customized language programs for corporate clients and educational institutions. The company focuses on enhancing employee productivity and communication skills through a blend of live classes and self-paced learning tracks. Voxy's approach is particularly tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. With a global footprint, Voxy has supported over 5 million learners across 150 countries, offering training in multiple languages such as English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. The company leverages AI technology to create personalized learning experiences, ensuring that content is relevant to the job roles and responsibilities of its users. Voxy's recent funding of $10 million in June 2022 highlights its ongoing growth and commitment to providing effective language training solutions.

12. Beverly Hills Lingual Institute

• Website: bhlingual.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Poland 10%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: beverly-hills-lingual-institute

Beverly Hills Lingual Institute, founded in 1996, is a private language school located in Beverly Hills, California. The institute specializes in offering online language classes across more than 35 languages, making it accessible to a broad audience. It serves individuals who wish to learn new languages, improve their existing skills, or engage children in language education. The institute emphasizes structured courses and private lessons, all taught by native-speaking instructors, which fosters effective communication and cultural understanding. With a dedicated team of around 31 employees, the institute has built a reputation for quality language education. They also provide alternative programs, including accent reduction and travel classes, further showcasing their commitment to meeting the varied needs of language learners. The institute is a member of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages and the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce, indicating its active involvement in the language education community.

13. HelloTalk

• Website: hellotalk.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: China 47%, United States (USA) 10%, Japan 7%, Other 36%
• Latest funding: Seed, $3.0M, May 2018
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: hellotalk

HelloTalk is a language exchange platform founded in 2012 and based in Los Angeles, California. The company connects users from around the world, allowing them to practice languages with native speakers through various communication methods, including text, voice, and video chat. With a community of over 50 million members, HelloTalk supports more than 150 languages, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking to enhance their language skills in a social context. The platform features intuitive tools for translation, pronunciation, and corrections, facilitating smoother conversations. HelloTalk has received $3 million in funding, which underscores its potential for growth and innovation in the language learning space. The company's mission is to bridge cultural gaps and promote language learning through community engagement and interaction.

14. Lingopie

• Website: lingopie.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Israel 54%, United States (USA) 20%, Argentina 8%, Other 18%
• Latest funding: October 2021
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lingopie

Lingopie is a language learning platform based in New York, founded in 2019. The company focuses on helping individuals improve their language skills through an engaging medium—TV shows and movies. Users can learn languages like Spanish, French, German, and more, by watching content with dual subtitles and interactive features that provide instant translations. Lingopie also offers tools for vocabulary review and live group lessons, enhancing the overall learning experience. The company has gained traction in the language education sector, appealing to learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers. With a team of around 64 employees, Lingopie has established itself as a notable player in the language learning industry, particularly through its innovative use of popular media for educational purposes.

15. Fluent City

• Website: fluentcity.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: September 2021
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fluentcity

Fluent City, based in New York, New York, is a language school that specializes in personalized online language lessons and tutoring services. Founded in 2011, the company has grown to employ between 51 and 200 staff members. Fluent City offers a wide range of language training programs, including Spanish, French, Italian, Arabic, Portuguese, German, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and English. Their services cater to various demographics, including adults, children, and organizations such as businesses and educational institutions. The company prides itself on its passionate instructors and flexible learning options, allowing students to choose their teachers and class times. With a focus on measurable success and dedicated support, Fluent City aims to help students overcome language barriers and achieve their communication goals.

16. Yabla

• Website: yabla.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 62%, Italy 15%, Germany 15%, Other 9%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: yabla-inc.

Yabla is a language learning platform based in New York, New York, that specializes in immersive video content to facilitate language acquisition. Founded in 2000, Yabla has developed a robust library of videos across multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, Chinese, and English. The platform is designed for both individual learners and educational institutions, providing interactive tools that enhance listening comprehension and vocabulary. Yabla's unique features include dual-language subtitles, integrated dictionaries, and various interactive exercises that engage users in active learning. The company has partnered with notable broadcasters to offer authentic programming, which enriches the learning experience. With a dedicated mobile app, Yabla allows users to study on the go, making language learning accessible and convenient. Its services are utilized by a range of educational institutions, from middle schools to universities, highlighting its relevance in the language education sector.

17. Rosetta Stone

• Website: tryrosettastone.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, China 9%, Germany 6%, Other 17%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: rosettastone

Rosetta Stone, founded in 1992 and based in Arlington, Virginia, is a prominent language learning provider. The company specializes in immersive software and mobile applications designed to facilitate language acquisition for individuals, businesses, and educational institutions. With a curriculum that spans 25 languages, Rosetta Stone employs a research-backed method that emphasizes interactive lessons and immediate feedback on pronunciation. Their offerings cater to a wide range of users, from casual learners to corporate teams and educational institutions, making them a versatile choice in the language learning market. The company has successfully supported millions of learners worldwide, reinforcing its position as a key player in the language education industry.

18. PandaTree

• Website: pandatree.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pandatree

PandaTree, founded in 2014 and based in Palo Alto, California, is a private online tutoring service that specializes in foreign language education for children aged 5 to 15. The company focuses on providing personalized tutoring sessions in Spanish and Chinese, utilizing engaging and interactive lessons to help children develop their language skills. PandaTree's platform allows parents to book one-on-one sessions with vetted tutors, ensuring a tailored learning experience. The company has created a user-friendly environment where children can practice language skills through conversation and interactive games. With a commitment to quality education, PandaTree has positioned itself as a notable player in the language learning sector, particularly in the niche of children's language education.

19. Fluenz

• Website: fluenz.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Miami Beach, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Mexico 72%, United States (USA) 16%, Venezuela 6%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: fluenz

Fluenz, founded in 2005 and based in Miami Beach, Florida, is a private language education provider that specializes in immersive language learning experiences. The company primarily focuses on teaching Spanish, but also offers courses in other languages such as French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Mandarin. Fluenz operates through a digital platform, providing access to various online courses and resources. Their unique approach combines structured programs with cultural immersion, allowing learners to engage deeply with the language and its context. The company has developed a reputation for its personalized instruction, which is evident in the positive feedback from students who have participated in their immersive programs across Latin America and Spain. Fluenz has not reported any external funding, indicating a self-sustained business model. With a dedicated team of instructors, many of whom are based in Mexico, Fluenz continues to adapt its offerings to meet the needs of language learners.

20. Language International

• Website: languageinternational.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Germany 50%, United States (USA) 33%, Netherlands 17%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: language-international

Language International, founded in 2008 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a private company that operates in the language education sector. With a team of approximately 42 employees, the company focuses on providing a comprehensive platform for students seeking language courses and study abroad programs. They connect learners with accredited language schools worldwide, facilitating access to a variety of language courses, including English, Spanish, French, German, and more. The company emphasizes the importance of cultural immersion and personalized learning experiences, addressing the unique challenges faced by language learners. Their services are designed to cater to individuals pursuing language education for personal, academic, or professional reasons, making them a relevant player in the language learning industry.

Language Learning Insights: Key Companies in the US

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
VIPKid	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	10001+	2013	Private
Preply	Brookline, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	501-1000	2012	Private Equity
EnglishCentral, Inc.	United States (USA)	501-1000	2009	Venture Capital
Mango Languages	Detroit, Michigan, United States (USA)	51-200	2007	Private
Pimsleur Language Programs	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	1961	Private
Verbling	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	1-10	2011	Corporate
Transparent Language	Nashua, New Hampshire, United States (USA)	51-200	1991	Private
Cambly Inc.	San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2012	Venture Capital
ChinesePod	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private Equity
Language Trainers | In-Person (Workplace or Home) and Online (Zoom-Meet-Skype) Language Courses	New York, New York, United States (USA)	51-200	2004	Private
Voxy	New York, New York, United States (USA)	51-200	2010	Private Equity
Beverly Hills Lingual Institute	Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private
HelloTalk	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2012	Venture Capital
Lingopie	New York, New York, United States (USA)	51-200	2019	Venture Capital
Fluent City	New York, New York, United States (USA)	51-200	2011	Corporate
Yabla	New York, New York, United States (USA)	11-50	2000	Private
Rosetta Stone	Arlington, Virginia, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1992	Private
PandaTree	Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2014	Private
Fluenz	Miami Beach, Florida, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Private
Language International	Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2008	Private

Want to Find More Language Learning Companies?

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