After changing to its three minute measurement qualifier last year, America’s latest people meter radio ratings continue to show audience growth.

The move was made last year because nearly half (45%) of radio listening occasions are shorter than 5 minutes and were un-credited in the old system. The move to the 3-minute listening threshold more accurately aligned the measurement system to modern listening habits and allowed radio to express its audience figures in a way that is more competitive with online measurement systems.

The latest results show that 25-54 year old AM/FM average quaarter hour results have soared by +19%.

Weekends and nights have the greatest growth compared to Fall 2024.

Nielsen’s nationwide projection is that total radio listening is up +7%.

Spring 2025 PPM audience growth is consistently strong (+17% to +19%) across all demographics versus Fall 2024. “The rising PPM tide raises all format boats,” according to analysis by WestwoodOne.

Adult Contemporary is the top ranking format.

All shifts increased, particularly nighs and weekends.

The US Radio Advertising Bureau has launched a website to promote the new measurement system.