AM/FM Radio Dominates in News and Sports Audio Consumption

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Edison Research

A recent report from Edison Research's Share of Ear survey has unveiled key insights into how Americans consume audio content, revealing a robust preference for traditional AM/FM radio, particularly for news and sports broadcasts. According to the data, nearly 70% of the time Americans spend listening to news audio occurs on AM/FM radio platforms.

This makes news the strongest category for radio, underscoring its continued relevance in an era abundant with digital alternatives. Sports broadcasts follow closely, with 61% of audio consumption still happening through radio, highlighting the enduring appeal of live sports commentary and play-by-play on traditional radio waves.

While radio remains a significant medium for news and sports, the landscape shows more diversity in other audio content types. The survey points out that while radio holds a substantial share, it faces stiffer competition in the realms of talk/personalities and music. Podcasts have surged ahead in the talk category, becoming the preferred platform for many seeking conversational and personality-driven content. Similarly, music listeners have a plethora of options beyond radio, ranging from streaming services to digital downloads, reflecting a shift in listener habits and preferences.

This shift in audio consumption patterns illustrates the evolving media landscape where traditional formats like radio maintain dominance in specific categories even as newer digital formats carve out significant niches.