Irish radio is enjoying its largest audience ever, according to the latest JNLR/Ipsos survey, with 3.5 million people tuning in each weekday — 57,000 more than the same period last year.

The most listened-to time of the day is between 9:00 and 9:15 a.m., when 1.65 million listeners, or 35% of the adult population, are tuned in.

The figures highlight the continuing strength of live broadcast radio over the past decade.

While the overall population increase has driven part of this growth, audience share has remained robust.

Currently, 79% of adults listen each weekday compared to 84% ten years ago.

Younger audiences have shifted somewhat in the face of increased media choice, yet 63% of 15–24-year-olds still tune in to live radio on a weekday.

This group now numbers 686,000 daily listeners — the highest level ever recorded.

Time spent listening has also proven resilient, with adults averaging 224 minutes daily and 15–24-year-olds averaging 155 minutes, consistent with long-term trends.

Other key findings include:

• 90% of all adults and 85% of 15–34-year-olds listen weekly.
• 68% of 15–34-year-olds listen each weekday.
• Local and regional radio attracts more than 2.3 million adult listeners daily.
• Regional weekday listening remains strong: Dublin (74%), Rest of Leinster (78%), Munster (84%), Connacht/Ulster (84%).

The Irish Audio Report published in November revealed that 97% of adults listen to audio content weekly, with live radio dominating at a 76% share of total audio listening.

Music streaming accounts for 12%, YouTube Music for 6%, and podcasts for 3%.

Digital listening is becoming increasingly significant: 12% of all radio listening is now via connected devices, with 7% through smart speakers and 3% via mobile devices.

Among 15–34-year-olds, connected device listening rises to 19%, with smart speakers and mobiles each representing over 7% of listening.

Ciaran Cunningham, CEO of Radiocentre Ireland, said: “Radio listening in Ireland is thriving, with today’s results underlining its enduring role at the heart of people’s daily lives.

“Millions tune in every day to enjoy exceptional content, with audiences spanning every age group, from younger listeners to older generations.

“While competition for younger audiences is increasing, radio broadcasters are continually adapting to create content that resonates with this age cohort.

“For brands, this is a powerful opportunity to tap into radio’s reach and influence—connecting with millions through both traditional broadcast and online listening.”

The results position Irish radio as a dominant and adaptable medium, maintaining relevance across generations while embracing digital platforms.