Radio Continues to Grow: Canadians Tune In More Than Ever

Friday, 9 January 2026 08:33

81% of Canadians tune in to radio each week - a significant share of Canadians’ attention, whether during the morning commute, at work, or in the evenings

Despite the rise of streaming services, podcasts, and on-demand audio, traditional AM and FM radio continues to be a major part of Canadian life, reaching millions of listeners each week. According to the latest data from Numeris, Canada’s official radio ratings company, radio reaches 81 percent of Canadians weekly, proving that the medium remains resilient and relevant in the digital age.

One of the most notable trends is the increase in in-home radio listening. Across the country, Canadians are tuning in at home more than ever, with an average increase of four percent throughout the day.

Overall, Canadians spend roughly eight hours a week listening to AM and FM radio, marking a 4 percent increase compared to last year. These numbers demonstrate that radio continues to capture a significant share of Canadians’ attention, whether during the morning commute, at work, or in the evenings.

Radio isn’t just a morning companion, however. While traditional listening remains strong throughout the day, online streaming of radio shows has also carved out a steady niche. About 13 percent of Canadians stream radio online, a figure that has remained consistent over the past three years. Morning hours are the peak for streaming, with weekday listeners logging on around 7:30 a.m. and weekend audiences peaking closer to 9 a.m. This pattern suggests that people are increasingly using digital platforms to maintain their radio routines when they’re away from their home or car radios.

Industry experts point to the versatility of radio as one reason for its staying power. It provides a mix of news, entertainment, talk shows, and music, often with a local focus that streaming services struggle to replicate. Radio also offers a sense of community, connecting listeners to their local area through updates on traffic, weather, and community events. This local connection, coupled with the convenience of in-home and online listening, helps explain why the medium continues to grow even in a highly digital era.

Advertisers, too, are paying attention. With a broad reach and loyal audience, radio remains a valuable tool for brands looking to connect with Canadians. Its multi-platform presence—over-the-air, online streaming, and mobile apps—allows advertisers to reach listeners wherever they are, reinforcing radio’s relevance in a fragmented media landscape.

As Canadians continue to embrace new technologies, AM and FM radio has shown a remarkable ability to adapt. From traditional car radios to smart speakers and online streams, radio is proving it can evolve without losing the qualities that have made it a trusted companion for generations. In a media world dominated by endless options, radio remains an accessible, familiar, and increasingly versatile medium—and its numbers suggest that growth is far from over.

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