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13 Key Podcast Facts To Consider In 2024 📈

Podcasts are like radio shows you can listen to on your phone or computer. They cover all sorts of topics, from stories and news to comedy and interviews.

Explore how podcasts have become really popular and how they’re changing the way people listen to things.

We’ll look at what kinds of podcasts people like best and how they’re making a big impact on how we learn and have fun. Let’s dive into the fun and interesting world of podcasts together!

Statistic Detail
Total Number of Active Podcasts 2,000,000+
Total Number of Episodes 48 million
Languages Available More than 100
Top Genres Comedy, News, Society & Culture, Sports, True Crime
Leading Podcast Publisher Worldwide iHeartRadio (266.06 million streams)
U.S. Population that Have Listened to a Podcast 57%
U.S. Population Aware of Podcasting 78%
U.S. Monthly Podcast Listeners 41%
U.S. Men Who Have Listened to a Podcast 43%
U.S. Women Who Have Listened to a Podcast 39%
Non-White Women Listeners 30%
Listeners Aged 12-34 56%
Listeners Aged 35-54 39%
Listeners Aged 55+ 26%
Non-White Listeners in the U.S. 43%
Weekly Podcast Listeners in the U.S. 28%
Spotify Listeners 53%
Average Number of Podcasts Listened to Weekly in the U.S. 8
Podcast Listeners More Likely to be Postgraduates 68%
Monthly American Podcast Listeners with Income $75k-$100k 12%
Monthly American Podcast Listeners Full-Time Employed 51%
Publishers Recording Video 17%

What Exactly Is A Podcast?

You must first understand what podcasts are before going into podcast statistics.

In short, a podcast is a type of digital audio broadcast. Individuals might hear to a podcast once in a while when they’re unwinding at home after a long day.

Podcast Facts

Source: Pexels

Alternatively, as the subsequent podcast stats demonstrate, it is frequently consumed while multitasking, such as traveling to or from work, performing chores, exercising, and so on.

A podcast, unlike a video or perhaps a blog article, does not include any visual elements. It’s considerably easier to consume this way. 

Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals let’s dig right into the 10 key podcast stats for entrepreneurs in 2021!

13 Key Podcast Facts To Consider 2024

Podcast

Source: Pexels

1. Exploring the Vast Landscape of 2.5 Million Shows

“How many podcasts are there?” is maybe one of the most basic and popular queries about podcasts.

Nearly 2.5 million podcasts listed in Apple Podcasts indicate the vast array of content available, spanning various genres and interests, though this number also includes many that are no longer active.

These podcast numbers are entirely consistent with the reality that podcasting is gradually becoming more widespread. In fact, according to estimates, 78% of the American public now knows what a podcast is, increasing from 64%.

2. The Rising Wave of 62% of Americans Tune Into Podcasts

The increased popularity of podcasts has prompted an increase in their number.

The increase to 62% of Americans aged 12 and over who have listened to a podcast in 2022, up from 57% in 2021, demonstrates the growing popularity and mainstream acceptance of podcasts in the U.S.

Aside from the growth in consumers, these podcast listener data reveal that an increasing number of people in the United States are routinely listening to podcasts.

41% of Americans would listen to podcasts at most once a month, up from 37% the previous year.

3. The Most Popular Podcast Listening Device

While some hear podcasts through internet browsers on their laptops, the majority do so through mobile apps. It is most likely why podcast listeners choose portable devices over other sorts of gadgets while tuning in.

In the United States, 65 percent of podcast listeners utilize gadgets such as cell phones and tablets. PCs & laptops, on the other side, are preferred by only 25% of all podcast listeners, which is most likely the group who listens to podcasts through their web browsers.

You could think you’re ready to begin your podcast strategy after reviewing these podcast statistics. Consider your channel before proceeding.

According to podcast data, smartphone app podcast consumers are more likely than web browser podcast listeners to finish a whole podcast episode.

4. Why Do People Download Podcasts?

Podcasts have so much to offer from the consumer’s perspective. Podcast users tune in for a variety of reasons, from learning new things to feeling inspired.

Education is at the top of the list. Roughly 3 out of every 4 podcast listeners in the United States claim they listen to podcasts on a monthly basis to learn new topics. Aside from that, podcasts provide listeners with pleasure as well as news and inspiration.

However, while these podcast data look into why consumers listen to podcasts, it’s also worth looking into why they don’t. This is particularly critical if your intended audience falls within this category.

According to data, 35% of individuals who don’t hear podcasts (despite knowing about them) say it’s because they don’t know where to get them.

Other common reasons include not knowing how to hear a podcast, not understanding where to begin among the many options, and not knowing what a podcast is.

5. 28% Embrace Podcasts Weekly

The fact that 41% of Americans have listened to a podcast in the last month shows regular engagement. It suggests that podcasts are becoming a habitual form of media consumption for many.

The 28% weekly listenership rate underscores the role of podcasts as a consistent and frequent source of entertainment, education, or inspiration for a significant portion of the audience.

The fact that over 80% of listeners spend more than 7 hours per week listening to podcasts highlights the medium’s ability to captivate and retain audience attention over extended periods.

6. Where Do People Listen to Podcasts?

It appears that nothing beats listening to a podcast from the luxury of your own home. In fact, 9 out of 10 podcast consumers in the United States claim they listen at home.

Podcasts are also being heard while on the go, with 64%, 49%, & 37 percent of listeners opting to listen while driving, walking, and commuting, respectively.

Podcasts are appealing to people who prefer simply listening to the content, as well as those who like multitasking. When listening to podcasts, 7 out of 10 people report they don’t do anything else.

Others enjoy multitasking, with 59% listening to podcasts while doing household chores, 52% driving, and 50% cooking or baking.

7. Podcasts Driving brand Discovery

According to data, 54% of podcast consumers are more inclined to contemplate purchasing from a company after hearing an ad on a podcast.

Though figures like these may entice you to begin your own podcast, merely establishing one to raise brand exposure isn’t enough. Promotion is crucial for each new product introduction.

However, you might be interested to learn that the bulk of podcast listeners (43%) find new programs by enquiring around on social networks or in an online community. After that, they talk to others they know who share their interests and look through their podcast app’s directory.

If these podcast stats aren’t enough to persuade you, consider this: podcast consumers are more inclined to follow brands on social media.

8. Ad Revenues from US Podcasts

Another figure illustrates the growing popularity of podcasts. Marketers in the United States are anticipated to spend 1.33 billion dollars on podcast marketing.

If that isn’t enough to persuade you of the expanding popularity & potential of podcasts, consider this: podcast advertising revenues in the United States are predicted to top $2 billion yearly in 2023.

Marketers are projected to spend 2.74 billion dollars in 2025, which is nearly twice the estimate for this year.

Given the possibilities of podcasts and their expanding popularity, it’s no wonder that Spotify, the music streaming service, has invested roughly 900 million dollars in podcast-related investments.

9. Over 80% Spend 7+ Hours with Podcasts Weekly

The fact that more than 80% of listeners spend over 7 hours per week listening to podcasts highlights the medium’s ability to captivate and retain audience attention for extended periods.

Around a fourth of podcast listeners treat them like a part-time job, spending more than 22 hours per week (or more than 3 hours per day) listening to them.

The amount of time spent hearing podcasts is also increasing. About 30% of the online population in the United States who have ever listened to a podcast said they listen to it even more than they did a year ago.

10. The Diversity of 8 Different Weekly Podcasts

The average listener engaging with 8 different podcasts weekly showcases the eclectic tastes and diverse interests of the podcast audience. This variety reflects the wide range of content available, from niche interests to broad topics, ensuring that there’s something for every listener.

The majority of individuals who listen to podcasts in the United States aren’t in a monogamous affair with their favorite programs. Considering what one can discover from podcasts, this is very understandable.

The typical weekly podcast consumer in the United States is quite diverse, subscribing to six programs and listening to seven in a typical week.

More than half of respondents engage in at least 4 distinct shows per week, while only 16% listen to 1 podcast per week.

11. Youth’s Choice as Half of Young Americans Engaged in Podcasts

The engagement of half of young Americans with podcasts signifies the medium’s popularity among the digital-native generation.

This demographic’s embrace of podcasts reflects their preference for on-demand, versatile, and mobile-friendly content.

Podcasts offer a unique blend of entertainment and education that resonates with younger listeners, who often seek out content that can be consumed on the go.

The medium’s appeal to youth also highlights its potential for growth and its role in shaping future media consumption trends as these listeners continue to seek out content that aligns with their values and interests.

12. A Global Voice Podcast in Over 100 Languages

Podcasts’ availability in over 100 languages demonstrates the medium’s global reach and its role in breaking down linguistic and cultural barriers.

This linguistic diversity allows content creators to reach audiences in their native languages, fostering a deeper connection and understanding.

It also provides listeners with access to a wider range of perspectives and stories from around the world, enriching their listening experience.

13. Diving Into the 71 Million+ Podcast Episodes

The staggering figure of over 71 million podcast episodes represents the vast repository of knowledge, entertainment, and insight available at listeners’ fingertips.

This abundance of episodes showcases the depth and breadth of content that podcasting offers, catering to an array of interests and curiosities.

Each episode is a window into a different world, whether it’s exploring complex scientific concepts, diving deep into historical events, or simply sharing personal stories and experiences.

Some Real Statistics on Podcasting

Podcast

Source: Pexels

The following is a rundown of podcast stats:

  • In 2006, only 22% of the adult population in the United States was aware of podcasting. By 2021, this figure had risen to 78%, showcasing the significant growth in podcast awareness over the years.
  • The number of podcast listeners is expected to surpass 160 million in 2023, with increases of around 20 million each year, indicating a steady rise in podcast popularity.
  • There are over 2,000,000 active podcasts and 48 million episodes, highlighting the vast amount of content available across various genres and topics.
  • Podcasts are available in more than 100 languages, demonstrating the global reach and accessibility of podcast content.
  • A podcast has been listened to by nearly six out of ten US consumers over the age of twelve.
  • Portable gadgets such as cell phones and tablets are used by 65% of podcast listeners.
  • In the United States, roughly 3 out of every 4 podcast listeners claim they listen to learn something new.
  • On a monthly basis, 32% of Americans hear podcasts.
  • Ninety percent of podcast consumers do it from the convenience of their own homes.
  • After hearing a brand’s advertisement on a podcast, more than 50% of consumers are more inclined to consider purchasing from it.
  • The top popular genres of podcasts include Comedy, News, Society & Culture, Sports, and True Crime, reflecting a wide range of interests among listeners.
  • iHeartRadio is the leading podcast publisher worldwide, with 266.06 million streams, indicating the significant influence of major publishers in the podcasting industry.
  • 82.4% of podcast listeners listen to them for more than 7 hours per week.
  • The typical weekly podcast listener has six subscriptions and listens to seven episodes per week.

U.S. Podcast Demographics:

  • 57% of the US population have listened to a podcast.
  • 78% of the US population is aware of the term “podcasting.”
  • 41% of the US population listens to a podcast at least once a month.
  • 43% of US men and 39% of US women have listened to podcasts.
  • 30% of women podcast listeners are non-white.
  • The highest number of podcast listeners is in the 12-34 age bracket at 56%.
  • 28% of the total US population are weekly podcast listeners.
  • Spotify listeners accounted for 53%.
  • US weekly podcast listeners average eight podcasts.

International Podcast Demographics:

  • 63% of the Canadian population is familiar with the term “podcasting.”
  • 87% of the Australian population is familiar with podcasting, and 30% have listened to a podcast.
  • 18% of adults in the U.K. listened to podcasts every week.
  • Podcasting is growing fastest in Chile, Argentina, Peru, Mexico, and China.
  • Sweden tops the podcast consumption chart, with China having the 5th highest podcast consumption growth.

FAQs

🎧 How do I listen to podcasts?

You can listen to podcasts using podcast apps on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Simply search for the podcast you want to listen to, select an episode, and hit play.

📈 How popular are podcasts?

Podcasts have grown in popularity in recent years, with millions of listeners worldwide. They offer a convenient way to consume audio content on-the-go, driving their widespread adoption.

💡 What are some common podcast genres?

Common podcast genres include true crime, comedy, business, technology, self-help, storytelling, politics, education, and more.

💬 Can I listen to podcasts for free?

Yes, the majority of podcasts are available for free. You can stream or download episodes without any cost through various podcast apps or websites.

🌐 Where can I find podcasts to listen to?

You can find podcasts on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and many others. Additionally, podcasts may have their own websites or social media pages.

📊 How are podcasts changing media consumption habits?

Podcasts provide listeners with on-demand access to a wide range of content, allowing them to customize their listening experience. This shift towards personalized, niche content is changing how people consume media.

🔍 Are there podcasts for kids?

Yes, there are podcasts specifically created for children, offering educational content, storytelling, and entertainment suitable for young listeners.

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Conclusion: Podcast Facts 2024

Podcasts have revolutionized the way we consume audio content by providing a vast array of topics and perspectives for listeners across the globe.

From storytelling to news updates and comedy, podcasts cater to diverse interests and preferences. Their popularity continues to grow, influencing modern media consumption habits and shaping societal conversations.

As podcasts evolve, they offer a platform for voices to be heard and stories to be shared, promoting connection and learning.

Due to their accessibility and variety, podcasts have become an essential part of our daily lives, enhancing our experiences and broadening our horizons.

Sources: Podcast insights, Forbes, The podcast host, Statista, Edison Research, Emarketer, Oberlo

Alisia Emerson
This author is verified on BloggersIdeas.com

With over 15 years of expertise in personal branding, self-development, and financial literacy under her belt, Alisa has earned a reputation as an accomplished keynote speaker. She is also an expert on topics ranging from self-development, Business News to investment and gladly shares this knowledge with audiences through keynote speaking engagements as well as writing craft workshops for local writers' groups and book conferences. Out of her deep knowledge of writing craftsmanship, Alisa also offers online fiction courses to guide aspiring authors to reach success through story composition excellence.

Affiliate disclosure: In full transparency – some of the links on our website are affiliate links, if you use them to make a purchase we will earn a commission at no additional cost for you (none whatsoever!).

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