This is a quick, non-exhaustive list of SDR applications and utilities. I know these application to work with a HackRF One SDR, and have used each one at one time or another.
For receive-based goals: If you'd like to do some basic frequency spectrum scanning/listening, there are a few of really good (free) SDR apps that come with basic de-modulators build-in such as: AM, wide-band FM, narrow-band FM, single and double side-band and more listed below.
For transmit-based goals, GNU Radio is probably the best choice because you can customize your transmission needs exactly. However, there is a steep learning curve.