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Python for macOS

Latest version: Python 3

Download Python 3
Universal installer
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Installation Notes

The official Python installer for macOS is a universal binary supporting both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs. It includes IDLE, pip, and documentation.

macOS Ships with Python 2.7

macOS includes an older version of Python for system use. Installing from Python.org gives you the latest Python 3 without affecting system Python.

Installer Options

Recommended

Universal Binary

Works on both Intel and Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3). Optimized performance for your Mac architecture.

Download Universal

Package Managers

Alternative

Install Python using Homebrew or other package managers. Great for developers who prefer command-line installation.

Learn About Homebrew

Installation Steps

Standard Installation

  1. Download the installer using the button above
  2. Open the downloaded .pkg file
  3. Follow the installation wizard
  4. Enter your password when prompted
  5. Click "Install" to complete the installation

Using Homebrew

If you have Homebrew installed, you can install Python with: 

brew install python@3

Verify Installation

Open Terminal and type: 

python3 --version

You should see the Python version number displayed.

Documentation

Important Notes

  • macOS command is python3, not python
  • Use pip3 for package installation
  • Xcode Command Line Tools may be required for some packages
  • SSL certificates are included in the installer

System Requirements

macOS 10.9 or later is required for Python 3.9+. The universal binary requires macOS 10.9 or later for Intel and macOS 11 or later for Apple Silicon.

Apple Silicon Support

Python 3 includes full native support for Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3). The universal installer automatically uses the native ARM64 version on Apple Silicon, providing optimal performance and compatibility.

Learn More
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