Radio Reaches Two-Thirds of Financially Optimistic Adults

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 10:19am CT

The Media Audit

New research from The Media Audit suggests radio remains a powerful channel for reaching consumers most likely to keep spending after the holidays, a period that typically challenges retailers.

According to the study, 31.8% of U.S. adults age 18 and older describe themselves as financially optimistic, saying they expect to be better off financially within the next six months. These consumers are more inclined than the general population to continue discretionary spending during the January-February slowdown.

The Media Audit Vice President Nick Miller said radio reaches 65.8% of financially optimistic consumers on an average day. He added that this group listens for an average of two hours and 23 minutes daily, about seven minutes more than the overall adult radio audience.

Radio's reach increases further among heavier listeners. While 29% of light radio listeners -- those who tune in for less than an hour a day -- are financially optimistic, that figure climbs to 34.5% among listeners who spend more than three hours a day with radio.

Miller noted that financially optimistic consumers also display distinct purchasing behavior. Compared to the broader market, they are roughly 50% more likely to be considering major purchases such as automobiles, furniture, solar installations, and cosmetic procedures. They are also more open to using credit and financing options.

Typical post-holiday spending among this group includes spring travel bookings, gym memberships, and purchases of home goods, electronics, and fitness equipment -- categories that align closely with first-quarter promotional activity.

The Financial Analyst newsletter added that financially optimistic consumers tend to be especially responsive to promotional campaigns, making them an attractive target for both retailers and local advertisers.

Miller said the findings point to radio's value in a difficult retail environment, noting that its strong reach among financially optimistic consumers, combined with their preference for higher-margin products and services, offers advertisers an opportunity to stretch marketing dollars during the first quarter.