Radio plays a central role in Finns’ everyday lives

According to Finnpanel’s National Radio Survey, in 2024, radio reached 4.3 million Finns weekly, which is 84 percent of the population. On a daily basis, people listen to the radio for 2 hours and 10 minutes.

According to the study, Yle and commercial radio channels complement each other. Over the course of a week, commercial radio reaches 67 percent of the population, while Yle reaches 46 percent. In terms of total listening share, Yle accounts for 51 percent, and commercial stations account for 49 percent.

Older listeners preferred Yle’s channels, while among those under 55, 74 percent of listening minutes were spent on commercial radio.

Age and gender also influence the list of popular radio stations. Among women aged 25–54, the most popular stations were Radio Nova (26%), Radio Suomipop (26%), and Yle Radio Suomi (17%). For men in the same age group, the top choices were Radio Rock (25%), Yle Radio Suomi (21%), and both Radio Nova and Radio Suomipop (18% each).

Commercial radio celebrates its 40th anniversary

In 2025, commercial radio will celebrate its 40th anniversary. The first commercial radio stations began operating in 1985.

The first station, Radio Lakeus, launched in Nivala in April, followed by Radio City’s first broadcast in Helsinki on the eve of May Day. In total, 18 radio stations were established in 1985, about half of which are still operating today.

“Commercial radio has played a significant role in music in many ways; it has diversified music offerings and brought new innovations to the industry. We extend our warmest congratulations to the entire sector,” says Sari Aalto-Setälä, Gramex’s Director of Public Affairs and Communications.