New AARP research shows that AM radio continues to play an important role in the lives of Americans 50 and older, especially in terms of access, trusted information, and public safety. While listening habits are evolving, many still rely on AM radio for news, weather reports, emergency alerts, and community programming, leading most to believe that it should remain a standard feature in vehicles.
The majority of adults 50-plus (86%) have access to AM radio in their vehicles; however, listening habits are mixed. Thirty‑two percent say they listen to AM radio while driving, and 36% say they do not. While day‑to‑day listening is limited, most older adults (52%) say that keeping AM radio in vehicles is important.
Among those who listen to AM radio in their vehicles, programming varies but tends to be information‑focused. The breakdown of content listened to on AM radio includes:
- News: 53%
- Talk shows: 42%
- Music: 39%
- Weather updates: 36%
- Sports: 33%
- Traffic reports: 29%
- Religious programming: 20%
There is strong support for requiring AM radio in all vehicles
Support for AM radio-related policy action is strong among older adults, with 79% supporting legislation requiring all vehicles sold in the U.S. to include AM radio at no additional cost to consumers. Even though only a third (32%) of adults 50-plus listen to AM radio while driving, strong support for keeping it in vehicles points to its perceived role as a reliable source of emergency and public-safety information.