New audience figures from Audiradio, the official radio audience measurement body in Italy, show a continued strong listening performance for the country’s local radio sector during the first quarter of 2026.
The national radio data covers the period between Jan. 27 and Apr. 13, 2026. Local radio figures are based on a rolling six-month measurement period spanning the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, from Oct. 14, 2025, to Apr. 13, 2026.
The results released by Audiradio only confirm the positive picture for Italian local radio
Marco Rossignoli, coordinator of Aeranti-Corallo
Audiradio said its research is based on 200,000 CATI interviews conducted across three separate survey streams using independent audience samples. The methodology includes separate measurement structures for local and national broadcasters.
According to the published data, the combined gross audience for all surveyed local radio stations reached 29,795,000 listeners on an average day. Audiradio noted that listeners may consume multiple local and national stations during the measurement period.
The data also showed that local radio stations were the most-listened-to stations overall in four Italian regions when compared with both national broadcasters and other local stations operating in those markets. In addition, eight local stations recorded higher average daily audiences than at least one national broadcaster. In comparison, nine local stations achieved stronger average quarter-hour listening figures than at least one national station.
Aeranti-Corallo, which represents around 400 local radio and television broadcasters in Italy, said the figures demonstrate the continued strength of the local radio sector. Marco Rossignoli, coordinator of Aeranti-Corallo, said, “The results released by Audiradio only confirm the positive picture for Italian local radio. The data demonstrate the widespread and consistent presence of local radio companies across the country, including leadership in several regions, both in terms of daily listening volume and average listening duration of 15 minutes.
“More generally, the survey also confirms that the local radio sector continues to enjoy excellent editorial health. In particular, local broadcasting remains highly competitive thanks to quality programming and entertainment and information programs that are well-suited to diverse cultural and economic contexts, offering unique and irreplaceable offerings.”
These stories might interest you
Aeranti-Corallo sets July date for RadioTV Forum
Rai Firenze examines AI’s impact on radio
Italian MP questions government over EU FM interference probe
