Commuting on the Rise in 2025, Boosting Radio's Reach

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 11, 2025 | 2:15pm CT

Katz Radio Group

New research from Katz Radio Group, analyzing the latest YouGov workforce data, reveals that commuting in the U.S. has surged in 2025, with more than 7 in 10 employed adults now traveling to jobs outside the home. The trend marks a 29% increase in commuting since 2020, signaling a continued move away from the pandemic-era work-from-home model and toward hybrid or in-person work arrangements.

The increase spans all age groups, with notable growth among adults aged 18-29, who have seen a 41% rise in commuting since 2020. Workers aged 30-44 are commuting at a 74% rate, while those 65 and older top the chart at 78%.

With this resurgence in commuting, Americans are spending more time behind the wheel-an environment where AM/FM radio remains dominant. Katz points to Edison Research's "Share of Ear" findings, which show that 90% of ad-supported audio listening time in the car goes to AM/FM radio, making it the most powerful medium for reaching on-the-go audiences.

Katz also notes that increased traffic congestion and downtown activity in major U.S. cities, many of which are top radio markets, reflect broader shifts in commuting patterns. The result: a larger, more engaged in-car audience that presents significant opportunities for advertisers.

"As more Americans return to regular commuting, radio continues to be the most effective way to reach consumers during one of the few uninterrupted moments of their day," the report concludes. "For brands looking to connect with working adults, the road leads straight to AM/FM radio."