US Podcast Revenue (2015–2026)
Podcasting is one of the newest digital marketing tools available on the market, especially when compared to other more traditional channels like social media.
Nevertheless, its potential to build brand image, establish credibility, and ultimately grow a business is immense. This is shown by the growth in podcast revenue that’s been forecast for the coming years.
US podcast revenue: key numbers
- In 2025, US podcast revenue is projected to reach $2.38 billion, a 9.9% increase from $2.16 billion in 2024.
- Despite a slight deceleration in growth, US podcast ad revenue is projected to climb to $2.56 billion by 2026.
- The number of weekly podcast listeners in the US is forecast to increase from 109.1 million in 2024 to 114.7 million in 2025, reflecting the growing popularity of podcasts across all demographics, particularly among young adults.
Annual podcast revenue in the United States: table
|
Year |
US podcast revenues |
Annual change |
|
2015 |
$105.7 million |
|
|
2016 |
$169.1 million |
+60.0% |
|
2017 |
$313.9 million |
+85.6% |
|
2018 |
$479.1 million |
+52.6% |
|
2019 |
$708.1 million |
+47.8% |
|
2020 |
$842.3 million |
+19.0% |
|
2021 |
$1,448.7 million |
+72.0% |
|
2022 |
$1,825.3 million |
+26.0% |
|
2023 |
$1,925.2 million |
+5.5% |
|
2024 |
$2,164.7 million |
+12.4% |
|
2025 |
$2,379.0 million |
+9.9% |
|
2026 |
$2,562.1 million |
+7.7% |
US podcast revenue: 2015–2024
The latest statistics show that in 2024, podcasting revenue in the US is expected to hit $2.16 billion, reflecting a 12.4% annual rise. Although this growth rate is lower compared to the rapid increases of most of the previous years, it highlights the continued strength of the podcasting industry. From 2015 to 2024, US podcast revenue increased nearly 20-fold, demonstrating an average annual growth rate of 42.3% over this period.
Notably, the strongest year-on-year growth was recorded in 2017, with an impressive 85.6% surge in revenue. In contrast, the smallest increase occurred in 2023, when revenues grew by just 5.5%. Despite fluctuations, the overall upward trend emphasizes the expanding role of podcasting in the digital marketing landscape.
US podcast revenue forecast: 2025–2026
Looking ahead, the podcast industry’s growth is projected to remain positive, albeit at a slower pace. In 2025, US podcast ad revenue is expected to approach $2.38 billion, a 9.9% increase from 2024. In 2026, this figure is forecast to reach $2.56 billion, reflecting a further 7.7% rise. Considering that total ad revenue was only $105.7 million in 2015, this growth trajectory showcases the significant expansion of podcasting as an advertising channel.
If you’re thinking about starting a podcast, it’s essential to research podcast listener demographics and the most popular podcast topics. Recent studies indicate that podcast penetration is highest among young adults in the US, with two-thirds of those aged 18 to 29 having listened to a podcast at least once in the past year.
Podcasts’ increasing popularity driving podcast revenue
One of the biggest drivers behind rising podcast revenue in the US is its expanding user base. In 2024, an estimated 109.1 million people in the US will listen to podcasts weekly, marking a 5.3% increase from the previous year. This number is projected to grow further in 2025, reaching 114.7 million weekly listeners.
The consistent growth in podcast listenership aligns with increasing revenues. From 2022 to 2026, the number of US consumers listening to podcasts weekly is forecast to rise by 21.3%, from 98.4 million to 119.4 million. This trend mirrors the global podcast landscape, with total listener numbers expected to surpass half a billion in 2024.
The steady rise in podcast popularity highlights the medium’s potential for advertisers, content creators, and businesses alike. As more consumers turn to podcasts for both entertainment and information, the market presents a valuable opportunity for brands looking to connect with engaged audiences.