Report: AM/FM Radio Still Dominates U.S. Audio Listening

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 23, 2025 | 2:59pm CT

Edison Research

Despite the rise of digital audio services, traditional AM/FM radio remains the most-used audio source in the U.S., according to new research from Edison Research. The company's latest Share of Ear data shows that Americans age 13 and older continue to devote the largest portion of their daily audio time, 35% to AM/FM radio.

While streaming platforms like Spotify, podcasts, and YouTube have transformed how audiences access audio, AM/FM radio continues to maintain a strong foothold, particularly through its over-the-air broadcasts. However, the report also highlights that streaming versions of AM/FM stations are slowly gaining a foothold, depending on where people are listening.

As of the first quarter of 2025, streamed AM/FM radio makes up 12% of all time spent with radio sources. The remainder, 88%, still takes place through traditional receivers.

The way listeners access radio changes significantly by location. In the car, where radio remains the dominant audio format overall, only 1% of radio listening comes from streams. Most drivers still tune in using standard in-dash receivers.

By contrast, radio streams have carved out a larger presence at home and at work. At-home radio listeners stream AM/FM content 22% of the time, while workplace listeners turn to streams 16% of the time. In less conventional listening spots -- like gyms, grocery stores, or while walking around -- streamed radio accounts for nearly one-third of AM/FM listening.

Edison notes that the ability to stream AM/FM radio on smartphones, smart speakers, connected TVs, and computers has made traditional radio more accessible, even as habits shift. The findings suggest that while AM/FM continues to lead audio consumption overall, streaming is gradually altering where and how that listening takes place.