Table of Contents
Introduction
The Audio Publishers Association’s Sales Survey reveals that audiobook revenue grew by 9% in 2023, reaching $2 billion, continuing the market’s year-on-year growth.
Audiobooks have become increasingly mainstream, with more Americans listening to them or purchasing audiobook subscriptions. The Audio Publishers Association’s 2024 Consumer Survey found that 52% of US adults have listened to an audiobook, amounting to 137 million people. The audio format has made it easier for people to listen while doing other tasks, increasing reading time and the amount of titles listened to.
Audiobooks have also become popular among children and young readers who use them for learning, entertainment, and reducing screen time. The survey also highlights that subscription services and digital audiobook libraries have become a hit with audiobook listeners who want to explore more titles. Audiobooks have revolutionized reading, marrying digital convenience and innovation with the classic art of storytelling and narrative.
Easy access
Many enjoy audiobooks because of their convenient format, which allows for multitasking and easy listening regardless of location. However, they’re also easy to find on audiobook subscription services and are often cheaper than purchasing multiple physical books. The Audio Publishers Association’s 2024 Consumer Survey found that 63% of people who have listened to an audiobook in the past year are subscribed to at least one service.
These platforms offer access to a vast array of titles across genres and categories without having to buy each one individually. Perks like exclusive titles from famous authors are also a major draw. Digital audiobook libraries like Libby even enable people to borrow audiobooks for free using their library card. By combining the ease of apps and platforms with the library experience, audiobook listeners can borrow, read, and return these materials from the comfort of their own homes.
Young readers
Audiobooks are particularly enjoyed by younger generations of readers who are more tech-savvy and familiar with the format. Our “Audiobooks Statistics 2024 By New Way of Storytelling” post notes that the primary demographics of audiobook listeners are adults aged 25 to 34 years (29.28%) and the 18 to 24 years group (20.41%). Many young adults enjoy reading, but some struggle to stay hooked on physical books and ebooks or lack time to read them.
Audiobooks are a preferred medium for many who stay engaged with the audio format more than reading text or who like to multitask. They can also find trending titles seen on social media via audiobook platforms. Everand’s young adult audiobooks are enjoyed by teenagers and adults alike, offering interesting reads like When Haru Was Here by Dustin Thao or Lynn Painter’s Nothing Like The Movies. They can listen to audiobooks using their smartphones or tablets for easy access, allowing them to consume more literature wherever and whenever they want.
Children’s learning
While audiobooks are used mainly for entertainment and leisure, many parents and educators see their value in children’s education. Audiobooks can help kids build crucial literacy skills and expose them to exciting stories at a young age. They can be used to teach kids how to read and comprehend the material, allowing them to improve academic performance. They’re also great choices for parents concerned about their child’s screen time, as audiobooks can still offer engagement without requiring them to look at their devices. Public libraries have also seen growth in the number of audiobook materials borrowed by children and teens, making up 9.2% of youth circulation. Digital audiobook devices like Playaway Wonderbooks and Vox Books, as well as offerings from digital libraries like Hoopla, have become acceptable library materials for children and teens.
