Who Owns Most of the Radio Stations?

One of the first kinds of mass communication is radio broadcasting, which is still listened to by millions of people worldwide as a source of news, entertainment, and music. But who is the majority radio station owner? The answer to that question is a select group of sizable media corporations in the United States.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reports that as of 2019, iHeartMedia and Entercom Communications are the two biggest owners of radio stations in the US. Over 850 radio stations are owned by iHeartMedia, while over 235 are under Entercom. Cumulus Media, Townsquare Media, and Salem Media Group are a few further significant owners.

Intriguingly, there are still a lot of independently owned and operated radio stations in the US despite the dominance of these major media conglomerates. These stations frequently cater to specialized audiences and offer distinctive content that may not be offered by bigger stations.

The age range that listens to radio the most varies. 92% of US individuals ages 18 and over listen to the radio each week, per a 2019 Nielsen research. The study did discover that younger listeners—those between the ages of 18 and 34—listen to traditional radio less frequently than older listeners. Instead, they frequently use podcasts and streaming services. The cost of operating an online radio station may be lower than that of a conventional radio station. The price will vary depending on the equipment required, the number of listeners, and the stream’s quality. However, some estimates claim that the monthly cost of operating an internet radio station can be as little as a few hundred dollars.

In some regions of the world, pirate radio, which entails broadcasting without a license, still exists. These stations frequently cater to nearby villages on a limited scale. However, they are prohibited and if found, might result in penalties or even criminal charges.

Whether a regular radio station or an internet radio station is being launched, different equipment will be required. Equipment for conventional radio stations is needed, including a transmitter, an antenna, and studio tools. A computer, a streaming platform, and a microphone are necessities for internet radio stations. For anyone wishing to launch their own radio station, the internet fortunately offers a wealth of information and resources.