The latest Nielsen Audio PPM ratings for June 25th to July 22nd, 2026, reveal a dynamic landscape in radio broadcasting. Here's a breakdown of the key shifts across various markets, with a focus on notable changes and commentary.
Washington DC:
Public News/Talk 88.5 WAMU's decline is notable, dropping 12.5 to 11.3, while Hubbard News 103.5 WTOP rebounds to 10.3. This shift suggests a competitive environment where listeners are making choices. What's interesting is the rise of Christian AC 91.9 WGTS, gaining 5.1 to 5.5 to 5.7, indicating a growing audience for religious programming in the area.
Boston:
The Boston market is a tale of contrasting fortunes. WBUR's leap from 5.9 to 6.8 is a significant achievement, setting a new record high. This is particularly notable given the station's public news/talk format. Conversely, iHeartMedia's WBZ falls to 3.2, an all-time low, which raises questions about the station's strategy and listener engagement.
Miami/Fort Lauderdale:
Miami's radio scene is vibrant, with Audacy AC 101.5 Lite-FM taking the top spot. However, the market also showcases the power of Spanish programming, with Actualidad 1040/103.9 rising to its best since October 2020. The rise of Christian AC K-Love 89.7 WMLV to a new all-time high is a testament to the growing influence of religious radio in the region.
Seattle/Tacoma:
Seattle's radio market is witnessing a shift in listener preferences. KUOW-FM's rise to 7.7 is impressive, while KIRO's decline to 6.4 suggests a competitive dynamic. The rise of Dance 89.5 KNHC is a surprise, indicating a growing appetite for dance music in the area.
Phoenix:
Phoenix's radio market is a battleground between classic rock and AC formats. KSLX's tie with KESZ at the top is notable, while iHeartMedia's KFYI drops to 6.0. The rise of Classical 89.5 KBAQ to 4.3 is a positive sign for public radio.
Detroit:
Detroit's radio market is seeing a consolidation of power among sports and AC formats. Audacy's dominance with Sports 97.1 The Ticket is evident, while WNIC's rise to 6.4 is impressive. The decline of K-Love 102.7 WDKL to 2.1 is a reminder that religious programming faces competition.
Minneapolis/St. Paul:
Minneapolis/St. Paul's radio market is a study in stability and growth. iHeartMedia's dominance with Sports, Classic Hits, and Country formats is evident, while KTIS-FM's rise to 5.8 is a positive sign for religious programming.
Tampa/St. Petersburg:
Tampa/St. Petersburg's radio market is a mix of soft AC, classic rock, and Christian formats. Cox Media Group's dominance with The Dove is notable, while The Joy FM's rise to 5.9 is a positive development for religious programming.
Denver:
Denver's radio market is a showcase of diverse formats. KOSI's stability as a leader is impressive, while KYGO's rise to second is notable. The rise of Actualidad 96.5 KXPK to 4.5 is a positive sign for Spanish programming.
San Diego:
San Diego's radio market is a blend of classic hits, AC, and Spanish formats. Audacy's Sunny 98.1 expanding its lead is impressive, while Radio Latina 104.5's rise to 5.6 is a positive sign for Spanish programming.
Baltimore:
Baltimore's radio market is a mix of adult R&B, AC, and news/talk formats. Magic 95.9's extension of its lead is notable, while Today's 101.9's decline to 6.7 is a reminder of the competitive nature of the market.
St. Louis:
St. Louis's radio market is a study in classic rock, AC, and news/talk formats. KLOU's rise to 10.0 is impressive, while KMOX's rebound to 7.0 is a positive sign for public news/talk.
In summary, these ratings offer a glimpse into the ever-evolving world of radio broadcasting, where competition, innovation, and listener preferences drive change. As an industry, it's crucial to stay agile and responsive to these shifts to remain relevant and engaging for audiences.
