The third-quarter 2025 edition of The Record, a quarterly audio listening trends report, was released on Thursday, by Nielsen in collaboration with Edison Research. This study underscores the enduring dominance of traditional AM/FM radio in the U.S. audio landscape, even as streaming and podcasts continue to grow.
Drawing on Edison's proprietary "Share of Ear" methodology—which surveys approximately 4,000 Americans annually to measure daily audio consumption across all platforms—the report reveals that AM/FM radio captured 62% of total daily time spent listening in Q3 2025 (July-September).
This marks a slight uptick from previous quarters, highlighting radio's resilience amid digital fragmentation. Overall daily audio consumption averaged nearly 4 hours (3 hours and 57 minutes), accounting for about 20% of total media time, with ad-supported audio making up 63-64% of that. The findings emphasize radio's value for advertisers, particularly in-car listening (over 80% of which goes to AM/FM), and its broad reach across demographics.
Total Audio Breakdown: Of the 3:57 average daily listening, 67% was ad-supported overall, with radio edging out competitors. This aligns with broader trends: Audio ROI ranks second globally (behind social media) per Nielsen benchmarks, yet it's often undervalued in media plans.
Format Highlights: Among AM/FM stations, News/Talk led with a 12% share for 35+ listeners (up 1% QoQ), followed by Country (10%) and Adult Contemporary (9%). Sports formats surged 5% due to summer events. Streaming-specific listening (digital rebroadcasts of AM/FM) accounted for 21.7% of News/Talk streams.
Format Highlights: Among AM/FM stations, News/Talk led with a 12% share for 35+ listeners (up 1% QoQ), followed by Country (10%) and Adult Contemporary (9%). Sports formats surged 5% due to summer events. Streaming-specific listening (digital rebroadcasts of AM/FM) accounted for 21.7% of News/Talk streams.
Demographic Insights: 18-34 Year-Olds: Radio at 47% (down slightly), podcasts at 32% (up 1%), reflecting digital preferences—but radio still leads.
- 25-54 Year-Olds: Radio at 62%, podcasts at 23%.
- 35+: Radio's stronghold at 74%, podcasts at 13%.
Behavioral Trends: Listening peaks during commutes (86% in-car share for radio). Q3 saw a 1% dip in podcasts possibly offset by radio's gains, with no major seasonal shifts (unlike Q4's Christmas music boost to AC).
These results affirm AM/FM radio's "lion's share" status—over 80% of total listening time goes to terrestrial radio or podcasts—making it indispensable for reaching mobile audiences.