Help · Mac apps

How to uninstall Python (python.org) on a Mac.

By Grant and Brad, who make Pangalin's apps · Updated 11 October 2026

Python's documentation lists three things to remove for a version installed from python.org. Leave alone any Python that came with macOS or Xcode.

Uninstall a python.org Python

In Applications, move the Python 3.x folder (with IDLE and Python Launcher) to the Trash.
In Finder, press ⇧⌘G and go to /Library/Frameworks; move Python.framework to the Trash (enter your password). If you have several versions there, remove only the one you mean to.
Go to /usr/local/bin and move the links that point to that Python (such as python3.x, pip3.x and idle3.x) to the Trash.

Don't remove Apple's Python. /usr/bin/python3 belongs to macOS and Xcode's Command Line Tools. Python installed with Homebrew is removed with brew uninstall python.

Afterwards

Check System Settings › General › Login Items & Extensions for anything still named Python; see login items. An app that's still in your Trash can stay listed there until you empty the Trash or restart; that's normal macOS behaviour.
Empty the Trash when you're sure. Emptying the Trash is permanent.

More developer tools: clearing developer caches, Docker and Homebrew.

Based on Python's own documentation, checked October 2026. Menu names can change between versions.

Then check for anything Python left behind.

Once the app is gone, Pangalin Uninstaller's free Leftovers scan lists files left behind by apps that are no longer installed, by name and size. Apple's files are never included. It also shows where each one is and moves the ones you choose to the Trash in one go, with Undo. It's free.

Download free for Mac See the guide

Completely free · No account · Notarised by Apple · Apple silicon, macOS 13 or later