AM/FM Radio Dominates In-Car Listening, Study Finds

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, August 11, 2025 | 5:06pm CT

Cumulus Media and Westwood One

For the third consecutive year, Cumulus Media | Westwood One's Audio Active Group has analyzed Edison Research's "Share of Ear" study to measure in-car audio habits among U.S. drivers. The findings show AM/FM radio maintaining a dominant position both in total listening time and in the ad-supported audio space.

According to Edison's Q2 2025 data, AM/FM radio accounts for 56% of all in-car audio time -- more than four times the share of its nearest competitor. SiriusXM's ad-free channels take a 13% share, followed by Spotify's ad-free subscription service at 6%.

When focusing solely on ad-supported listening, AM/FM's lead is even more pronounced, commanding an 85% share of in-car ad-supported audio.

The study also highlighted trends among specific auto brands. Tesla owners, while still favoring AM/FM as their top platform, show significantly higher podcast listening and lower SiriusXM usage compared to other drivers.

Edison Research indicates the proportion of AM/FM listening that occurs in the car has fully rebounded to pre-pandemic levels. Before 2020, 48% of all AM/FM radio listening happened in vehicles, dropping to 40% during the pandemic. The share has since stabilized at 50%, matching pre-pandemic norms.

For automakers, the data underscores AM/FM radio's continued relevance in both product design and marketing strategy, offering a powerful channel to reach drivers and in-market car buyers.

Read the entire blog post here.