Nielsen Releases Final Batch of September PPM Radio Ratings

Nielsen Audio has completed its release of the final market-by-market radio ratings for the September 2025 survey period (August 21–September 17, 2025). 

The final batch, covering markets like Nashville, Austin, and Raleigh, shows notable performances (AQH shares for 6+ demo, unless specified):

• Nashville: iHeartMedia’s Classic Rock WNRQ “105.9 The Rock” jumped from 7.9 to 9.1, tying for #1 and hitting its highest share since 2018, matching a 2011 PPM peak. Cumulus News/Talk WWTN stayed strong at 8.5.
• Austin:  iHeartMedia AC KHMX “Mix 94.7” rose to 8.2, overtaking Country KASE “US 97.5” (down to 7.9). Alternative KCSC “107.3 The Curve” hit 6.4, a monthly high.
• Raleigh/Durham: Audacy AC WRAL “Lite 100.7” climbed 9.5 to 10.2, taking the market lead. iHeartMedia Alternative WNNL “Alt 101.3” gained from 5.1 to 5.8, riding the format’s momentum.
• Indianapolis: Cumulus AC WFMS “Lite 96.7” held steady at 11.2, leading the market. Radio One Sports WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” dipped to 2.9.
• Milwaukee: Audacy News/Talk WTMJ 620/97.3 HD2 fell to 7.5; iHeartMedia Country WMIL “US 99.7” retained #1 at 9.8.
• Jacksonville: Cox News/Talk WOKV 690 rose to 8.1; Audacy AC WSOL “Star 94.1” improved from 7.2 to 7.6.
• West Palm Beach: iHeartMedia Hot AC WHYI “Y100” led at 9.4 (up from 8.7); SBS Spanish WZOL “El Zol” gained to 6.3.
• Memphis: Cumulus Urban AC WVOL “V101” hit 10.1, a strong showing.
• Hartford: Audacy AC WRCH “Lite 100.5” topped the market at 11.8

➤Insights From The Research Director: HERE