What are the most popular online audio platforms with Americans? Which audio sources do they listen to in their cars? How are they consuming podcasts?

To find out, Edison Research in partnership with Sirius XM Media conducted a survey in January 2026 among 2,050 people aged 12 and older in the United States.

Some 219 million Americans listen to online audio platforms weekly, the researchers estimate.

The most listened to online audio platforms are Spotify, YouTube Music, and Pandora.

Spotify is significantly more popular with younger listeners (age 12-34) compared with older listeners.

The most listened to audio sources in vehicles are AM/FM radio, online audio, and podcasts.

Some 130 million Americans consume podcasts weekly.

Some 13% of respondents say they only listened to podcasts in the past week, 26% say they both listened to and watched podcasts, and 6% say they only watched.

About the research: The report was based on data from a survey conducted in January 2026 among 2,050 people aged 12 and older in the United States.

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How Americans Consume Audio in 2026: Platform and Podcast Trends

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

image of Ayaz Nanji

Ayaz Nanji is a writer, editor, content strategist, and research writer for MarketingProfs. He has worked for Google/YouTube, the Travel Channel, and the New York Times.

LinkedIn: Ayaz Nanji

Twitter: @ayaznanji