Study Finds Radio's Reach Of Adults 25-64 Remains Strong

AM/FM radio remains the dominant force in U.S. audio consumption, with 84% of adults aged 25-64 tuning in weekly, according to the newly released 2026 FMR/Eastlan Ratings National Radio Listening Survey. This reach has held steady for the past five years, demonstrating remarkable resilience amid the rise of digital alternatives.

The survey underscores radio's stability even as competing platforms grow. Streaming audio reaches 63% of the demographic weekly, while personal music listening stands at 60%. Podcast listening, at 40% weekly in 2026, has stabilized following a surge during the 2025 election year.

Researchers note that increased podcast engagement appears to represent net new time spent with audio overall, rather than cannibalizing audiences from radio, streaming, or satellite services.

Traditional broadcast delivery continues to lead overwhelmingly. About two-thirds (roughly 66%) of primary radio listening occurs via conventional AM/FM receivers. In contrast, only 11% happens through phone apps and 16% via streaming platforms. The preference for over-the-air is even stronger in smaller markets (ranked 31 and below), where traditional AM/FM accounts for 68% of primary listening.

The study also delved into video podcast consumption. Among viewers who watch podcasts on video platforms, a striking 72% rely primarily on YouTube. Instagram and TikTok each draw just 10% of these viewers, highlighting YouTube's commanding lead in the video podcast space.

This nationally representative survey included 1,000 demographically balanced and geographically diverse adults aged 25-64 across the United States, making its findings statistically projectable on a national scale.