Free Local Broadcasting Powers $1.19 Trillion in U.S. Economic Activity, Underscoring its Essential Role in National Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Free, local broadcast television and radio stations are more than trusted sources of news, emergency updates and community connection. They are a vital infrastructure supporting every corner of American life. According to a new study conducted by Woods & Poole Economics, Inc. with support from BIA Advisory Services, local broadcasting fuels $1.19 trillion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and supports 2.46 million jobs nationwide.

At a time when Americans face rising costs and fragmented access to information, broadcasting remains uniquely accessible — available to every household over the air, without subscription fees or broadband requirements.

“No other industry gives more to Americans for free,” said Curtis LeGeyt, president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters. “Local stations provide trusted journalism, life-saving emergency alerts and the sports and entertainment that bring our communities together. This report reinforces that broadcasters are not only essential to our democracy and daily lives, but to the strength of our economy, as well.”

The study details how local stations serve their communities while powering economic growth:

• Trusted Local Journalism: From holding the powerful accountable to covering school board meetings and community events, local broadcasters employ nearly 311,000 Americans directly, generating $54 billion in GDP through journalism, programming, engineering and advertising services.
• Emergency Information and Public Safety: Broadcasters are the backbone of the nation’s Emergency Alert System, ensuring every American can be reached during wildfires, hurricane, and other disasters, even when power or internet fails.
• Community Connection through Sports and Culture: Whether it is Friday night football, local election results or cultural programming, broadcasting unites communities through shared experiences, available without a subscription.
• An Economic Multiplier: Local broadcasting’s economic ripple effect extends deep into other sectors — from construction to retail — adding another $134 billion in GDP and supporting nearly 776,000 additional jobs.
• A Powerful Advertising Platform for Main Street: With unmatched reach into every home and demographic, advertising on local broadcast television and radio generates more than $997 billion in GDP and sustains over 1.37 million jobs. Local businesses rely on this trusted platform to reach customers, grow their operations and fuel local economies.

“Broadcasting is more than a business model; it is a civic model,” added LeGeyt. “This industry stands alone in its mission to inform, protect and uplift every community in America, regardless of zip code or income level.”

As policymakers debate the future of media, this report offers a compelling reminder: Free, local broadcasting is not just surviving. It is delivering extraordinary value to our democracy, safety and economy.

About Woods & Poole Economics, Inc.

Woods & Poole Economics is an experienced, small, independent firm that specializes in long-term county economic data and demographic data projections. Woods & Poole’s database for all U.S. counties contains projections for every year through 2060 for more than 900 variables. Each year Woods & Poole updates the projections with new historical data. The data and projections are provided in spreadsheet files by Download. Woods & Poole has been making county projections since 1983. Users of Woods & Poole data include public utilities, state and local government, consultants, retailers, market research firms and planners.

About BIA Advisory Services

BIA Advisory Services is a leading consultancy highly regarded for its expertise in forecasting and valuation services for the media industry. With a robust track record of delivering data-driven insights and strategic guidance, BIA helps clients navigate an ever-evolving landscape. Our specialized services empower organizations to make informed decisions, optimize their investments, and effectively anticipate market trends. Committed to excellence and innovation, BIA is the trusted partner for businesses looking to enhance their competitive edge in the dynamic media ecosystem.

About NAB

The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at nab.org.

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