Report: Radio Listening Surges At Work

When Edison Research released the 1Q ‘25 Share of Ear report, one finding really stood out: Listening to ad-supported AM/FM radio at-work jumped a stunning 10 share points compared to a year ago. this is just one of the Audacy Insights contained in a new report from Ray Borelli. 

Radio has been the office soundtrack for decades, dominating at-work listening. But the pandemic upended work routines and media habits. Now the trend is shifting back. A recent survey reported that 64% of companies have called employees back to the office, a figure that’s expected to rise to 87% by the end of 2025. 

Reaching Consumers Closer to the Point of Purchase

The resurgence of AM/FM listening at work (63% among ad-supported sources, up from 53% in 1Q 2024) combined with AM/FM’s dominance in the car (a whopping 84% of ad-supported listening) reinforces radio’s unique ability to reach consumers when they are closest to the point of purchase.  

Radio provides a valuable opportunity for marketers to engage with office workers throughout their day, from the morning drive, at the office, to the evening commute. Think about the listener who hears an ad for an appliance store sale or the latest deal at their favorite quick-serve restaurant while at work. They are going to be more likely to search online or stop by on their way home.

AM/FM Radio Dominates Work, Home, and Car

AM/FM radio remains the dominant ad-supported listening choice across all locations, not just at the office and in the car. According to Edison, 66% of U.S. adults listen to broadcast or streaming AM/FM radio daily. AM/FM is #1 across all key demographic groups, including Gen Z and Millennials, demonstrating radio’s resiliency in an ever changing media landscape.  

Smart speakers are making it easier than ever before for consumers, including office workers, to tune-in to their favorite radio stations. Radio is the top ad-supported listening choice on smart speakers. AM/FM radio overtook streaming music’s share of ad-supported listening on smart speakers in 2022, and now commands a 17-point advantage (48% vs. 31%).

Podcast Listening Continues to Grow

Podcast listening keeps growing, with the share of ad-supported digital audio listening to podcasts having more than tripled over the past ten years. Podcasts overtook streaming music in 2022 and now holds a commanding double-digit share advantage. In the current study, nearly half (46%) of all ad-supported digital audio listening was to podcasts.  

Whether tuning in at work or home, on smart speakers, or looking for podcasts, the sound rings clear: Routines, habits, and technology may evolve, but Audio remains a constant companion for listeners and a proven winner for marketers.