Insite | Radio Leads All Media in Reach Across Demos

New findings from Nielsen, with added insights from Edison Research’s Share of Ear, reaffirm AM/FM radio’s position as the leading media platform in the U.S., with unmatched reach and usage across every major demographic — this according to data, highlighted by Katz Radio Group.

Nielsen’s latest media universe overview shows more than 225 million adults — roughly 9 in 10 — tune in to radio each week. Radio remains the number one media platform in the country, outpacing all other measured forms of both digital and traditional media. It holds the top spot in overall reach for adults aged 50-64 and 65 plus, and ranks a close second among 18-34-year-olds, demonstrating its cross-generational appeal.

Katz Radio Group notes that radio’s dominance extends beyond reach. AM/FM radio also commands the majority of time spent with ad-supported audio, accounting for 7 out of every 10 minutes. Among 18-34-year-olds, half of all ad-supported audio time is spent with radio.

Importantly, radio’s footprint spans multiple platforms. Audiences access AM/FM content not only over the air, but increasingly via smartphone apps, internet-connected devices, and smart TVs — reflecting the medium’s adaptability in an evolving digital landscape.

The report also highlights a noteworthy comparison: every week, approximately 60 million more adults listen to radio than use the internet on a computer, underscoring radio’s continued relevance outside the deskbound, digital-first perception.

From news and sports to entertainment and music, AM/FM radio remains deeply embedded in daily life and community engagement. For marketers, the data is a strong reminder that radio continues to deliver unmatched scale, engagement, and value in the modern media mix.