The latest Nielsen Audio PPM ratings for May 2026 reveal some interesting shifts in the radio landscape across various markets. Here's a breakdown of the key changes and trends, with a focus on the commentary and analysis that these numbers provide.
Charlotte, North Carolina:
WFAE's Public News/Talk format continues to dominate, with a 6.5-point increase in share, reaching 7.6. This is a significant jump and a testament to the station's strong performance. Meanwhile, WTVN's News/Talk format takes a hit, falling to 3.2, marking a new all-time low. This contrast highlights the competitive nature of the market and the ongoing battle for listener attention.
Portland, Oregon:
KLTH's Classic Hits format reigns supreme, reclaiming the top spot with a 9-point increase in share. This resurgence showcases the enduring appeal of classic hits in the region. Conversely, KOPB-FM's Public News/Talk format faces a decline, dropping 8.7 points. The competition between these formats is intense, and the numbers reflect the dynamic nature of the radio industry.
San Antonio, Texas:
Cox Media Group's dominance in the top three spots remains intact, with KONO-FM's Classic Hits format leading the way. However, the market's competitive landscape is evident in the fluctuations of other formats, such as Country and Classic Rock, which experience both gains and losses in share.
Salt Lake City, Utah:
KRSP's Classic Rock format sees a decline, falling 9.4 points. This shift might prompt the station to reconsider its programming strategy. On the other hand, KBZN's Hot AC format inches up, indicating a positive response to its programming. The market's diversity is further emphasized by the varying fortunes of different formats.
Orlando, Florida:
WMGF's AC format maintains its lead, but with a significant 11-point drop in share. This highlights the challenges of sustaining dominance in a competitive market. The rise of WCFB's Adult R&B format and the steady performance of WOCL's Classic Hits format add complexity to the local radio scene.
Sacramento, California:
Audacy's Classic Rock format, represented by KSEG, regains the top spot with an 8-point increase. This comeback story showcases the power of classic rock in attracting listeners. The market's competitive dynamics are evident in the fluctuations of other formats, such as AC and News/Talk.
Las Vegas, Nevada:
KSNE's AC format experiences a surge, jumping 5.5 points. This positive trend is notable, especially considering the station's previous challenges. The market's overall health is reflected in the varying fortunes of different formats, with some experiencing gains and others facing declines.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania:
WWSW's Classic Hits format regains the top spot, showcasing the enduring appeal of this format. The market's competitive nature is evident in the fluctuations of other formats, such as Sports and AC, which experience both gains and losses.
Cincinnati, Ohio:
WUBE's Country format sees a significant boost, rising 9.2 points. This positive trend is a testament to the station's effective programming strategy. The market's competitive landscape is further emphasized by the varying fortunes of different formats, such as News/Talk and Hot AC.
Kansas City, Missouri:
KMXV's CHR format inches up, while KJNW's Christian AC format faces a decline. The market's competitive dynamics are evident in the fluctuations of formats like Rock and News/Talk, showcasing the diverse preferences of local listeners.
Columbus, Ohio:
WCOL's Country format rises, while WTVN's News/Talk format hits a new low. This contrast highlights the challenges of maintaining dominance in a competitive market. The market's overall health is reflected in the varying fortunes of different formats.
Cleveland, Ohio:
WTAM's News/Talk format maintains its lead, but with a slight dip in share. The market's competitive nature is evident in the fluctuations of other formats, such as Classic Hits and Sports, which experience both gains and losses. The overall health of the market is a reflection of the diverse listener preferences in Cleveland.
