Podcast Listener Numbers 2019-2028

In recent years, podcasts have emerged as a favorite pastime for millions worldwide. 

Offering a diverse range of topics, from true crime to comedy to self-help, podcasts have captured the attention of audiences seeking both entertainment and enlightenment. 

Let’s delve into the captivating statistics that outline the remarkable ascent of podcast listener numbers from 2019 to projections for 2028.

How many people listen to podcasts?

2019: 38.06 million listeners

In 2019, the podcast landscape boasted a significant audience base of 38.06 million listeners in the United States. This marked the foundation of what would soon become a remarkable surge in podcast consumption.

2020: 49.48 million listeners

The year 2020 witnessed a notable leap in podcast listener numbers, reaching 49.48 million. As the world grappled with the challenges of a global pandemic, podcasts emerged as a source of solace, knowledge, and entertainment for many.

2021: 57.95 million listeners

Continuing its upward trajectory, 2021 saw podcast listener numbers surge to 57.95 million, signifying an increasing appetite for on-demand audio content among audiences.

2022: 61.19 million listeners

The year 2022 marked another steady increase in podcast listenership, reaching 61.19 million individuals. As the diversity of podcast genres expanded, so did the listener base, reflecting the growing popularity and accessibility of podcasts.

2023: 68.85 million listeners

In 2023, the podcast industry experienced substantial growth, with listener numbers climbing to 68.85 million. This surge can be attributed to various factors, including the proliferation of smartphones, improved content discovery algorithms, and the rising number of high-quality podcasts available across platforms.

2024: 76.38 million listeners

The year 2024 witnessed a remarkable milestone as podcast listener numbers surpassed 76 million, reaching 76.38 million to be precise. This significant leap underscored the mainstream acceptance of podcasts as a preferred form of media consumption.

2025: 83.79 million listeners

As we entered 2025, podcast listener numbers continued their upward trajectory, soaring to 83.79 million. The accessibility of podcasts across multiple devices, coupled with compelling content offerings, fueled this growth.

2026: 91.27 million listeners

By 2026, the podcast industry had firmly cemented its position as a powerhouse in the media landscape, with listener numbers reaching 91.27 million. This exponential growth highlighted the enduring appeal of podcasts as a versatile and convenient source of entertainment and information.

2027: 98.72 million listeners

In 2027, podcast listener numbers breached the 90-million mark, surging to an impressive 98.72 million. This significant milestone underscored the sustained momentum of the podcast industry and its ability to captivate diverse audiences.

2028: 106.17 million listeners

As we peer into the future, projections for 2028 paint a promising picture for the podcast industry, with listener numbers forecasted to reach 106.17 million. This exponential growth trajectory reaffirms podcasts’ status as a cultural phenomenon and a dominant force in the digital media landscape.

Podcast Statistics 2018-2029

From humble beginnings to an unprecedented surge in popularity, the journey of podcast listener numbers over the past decade has been nothing short of extraordinary. 

As we look ahead to the future, one thing remains certain: podcasts will continue to captivate and inspire audiences, offering an immersive and enriching audio experience for years to come. 

So, whether you’re an experienced podcast enthusiast or a newcomer eager to explore this dynamic medium, there’s never been a better time to plug in and press play.

Ready to discover more?

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Source Acknowledgment: The data presented in our content originates from reputable sources including Statista, Insider Intelligence, Data Reportal, and Census.gov. Renowned for their accuracy and reliability, these sources ensure the integrity and credibility of the information we provide.