Online Radio Station & Streaming Audio

Online radio stations stream curated music, talk programming, or niche content over internet, monetizing through advertising and listener subscriptions.

With internet radio accessible globally and niche stations finding audiences, successful stations generate revenue of $70,000-$260,000 annually with profit margins of 35-50% after building listener base.

The business requires streaming server and hosting, music licensing (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC), broadcasting software, and programming expertise.

Revenue comes from advertising (pre-roll, mid-roll audio ads), sponsorships, listener subscriptions or donations, events, and merchandise for branded stations.

Streaming costs typically $0.0001-$0.0005 per listener per minute.

Success factors include compelling programming, consistent schedule, music discovery or niche content, community building, and effective monetization strategy.

Popular formats include genre-specific music, talk radio, sports, local community, and specialty programming.

The business can operate automated or with live DJs.

Music licensing costs and royalties significant expense.

Marketing focuses on social media, playlist promotion, and targeting niche music communities.

With streaming audio consumption growing and niche stations reaching global audiences in 2025, internet radio offers opportunities for music curators and broadcasters willing to build programming and listener base for specialized content.