Edison Research’s 2025 data reveals a significant increase in podcast listening among Americans aged 55 and older, with 27% now tuning in weekly, up from 14% in 2023, according to their Infinite Dial series.
This nearly doubled engagement among Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964) marks a shift in listening habits for a demographic traditionally loyal to AM/FM radio. In 2023, only 17% of those 55+ were monthly podcast listeners, despite representing a third of the U.S. population. The 2025 findings, which include video podcast consumption for the first time, show continued growth from 19% weekly listeners in 2024, though audio-only podcast listening still reflects an upward trend.
However, 53% of Boomers listen to online audio, up from 33% in 2018, indicating potential for further podcast growth. Popular genres among Boomers include news, politics, history, and spirituality, often hosted by familiar radio or TV personalities.
Edison’s President Larry Rosin estimates that matching younger demographics’ listening levels could add 30 million monthly listeners, pushing the U.S. total from 120 million to over 150 million.
Challenges remain, as 70% of Boomers are aware of podcasts, but only 42% have ever listened, compared to 76% of those aged 12–54. Effective outreach, particularly via Facebook (used by 73% of Boomers), and education on podcast access are key to closing this gap.