As commuting rebounded to pre-pandemic levels in 2025, in-car audio listening surged, with over-the-air (AM/FM) radio maintaining its dominant position, especially in vehicles lacking advanced connected infotainment systems like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Recent data from Edison Research's Share of Ear study (Q2-Q3 2025) shows that AM/FM radio captures around 56-62% of all in-car audio time among Americans aged 13+, even as more than 70% of employed adults now commute outside the home—up significantly since 2020. This rebound has restored in-car listening as radio's stronghold, with about 50% of all AM/FM usage occurring in vehicles, returning to pre-COVID norms.
The key divide lies in vehicle technology. In cars without CarPlay or Android Auto (still the majority, as only about one-third of primary vehicles have these features), traditional broadcast radio commands 62-67% of listening time, far ahead of streaming (12%) or satellite options. These older or basic models rely heavily on built-in AM/FM tuners, making over-the-air radio the default and most accessible choice—no apps, subscriptions, or smartphone pairing required.
By contrast, in connected vehicles with CarPlay or Android Auto, radio's share drops to around 47%, with streaming and SiriusXM each gaining to 20%. The ease of accessing paid or ad-free digital content via smartphone integration drives this shift, though radio remains the top source even here.
Industry reports, including from Katz Radio Group and Westwood One, emphasize that AM/FM holds an overwhelming 85-90% share of ad-supported in-car audio overall, underscoring its resilience amid rising connectivity. Factors like habit, live local content (news, traffic, sports), and simplicity help sustain radio's edge, particularly for drivers in less tech-equipped cars.
While wireless CarPlay/Android Auto and streaming are growing—especially among younger drivers—the persistence of older vehicles on the road ensures over-the-air radio's continued strength in the in-car audio landscape for the foreseeable future.
Recent industry data from Edison Research's Share of Ear (Q2-Q3 2025) and related analyses show clear generational divides in in-car audio preferences, driven by differences in vehicle technology adoption, habits, and content access.
Gen Z (roughly ages 13-24) and Younger Millennials
Younger drivers lead the shift away from traditional radio. In a Q1 2025 NuVoodoo survey of U.S. consumers ages 14+, Gen Z drivers allocate about 42% of in-car listening time to streaming (via phone or built-in apps), compared to just 20% for AM/FM radio. Streaming apps are regularly used by 45% of this group, making it their top choice due to on-demand personalization and integration with services like Spotify or YouTube Music.
Adults 18-34 Overall
This broader young adult cohort shows radio still leading but with reduced strength. Nielsen's Q1 2025 audio trends (powered by Edison data) indicate radio captures around 47-51% of ad-supported audio time among 18-34s (down from higher shares in older groups), with podcasts at 32% and streaming gaining ground. In-car specifics align, as younger drivers more frequently own newer vehicles with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto—platforms used by 83% of those with access (Edison Infinite Dial 2025)—facilitating easier streaming.
Adults 35-54 and 35+
Middle-aged and older listeners heavily favor radio. For ages 35+, radio holds 73-74% of ad-supported audio time (Nielsen Q1 2025), rising to 60-64% specifically for in-car listening among 35-54 and 55+ groups (Edison Q2 2025 breakdowns). AM/FM commands 84-90% of ad-supported in-car audio overall, with even stronger holds in vehicles without CarPlay/Android Auto (62% radio share per Edison Q2 2025)—more common among older owners of legacy models.