Audiobook Listening Hits Record High in Share of Ear

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 2:35pm CT

Edison Research

Audiobook listening in the U.S. has reached its highest level on record, according to year-end 2025 data from Edison Research's Share of Ear study. The research shows that 8% of Americans age 13 and older now spend at least some portion of their daily audio time with audiobooks, up from just 3% in 2016. That represents a 167% increase in audiobook reach over the nine-year period.

While audiobooks remain a smaller share compared to other audio platforms, Edison notes that usage has grown steadily. Researchers say the increase may be tied to expanded access through major streaming platforms and subscription services, though no single factor has been identified as the definitive driver of growth.

Edison Research has worked in partnership with the Audio Publishers Association for several years to better understand audiobook listening habits. Data from the Audio Publishers Association's 2025 Consumer Survey shows that 51% of Americans age 18 and older-about 134 million people-have listened to an audiobook at least once.

Interest is also rising among those who have not yet tried audiobooks. The survey found that 38% of spoken-word audio listeners who have never listened to an audiobook say they are interested in doing so, up from 32% in 2024, suggesting continued growth potential for the format.