Pandora and Streaming Radio Advertising Costs (2026)
- Streaming audio ads are priced by CPM (cost per 1,000 impressions), typically about $8–$30 depending on platform and targeting.
- Minimum spends commonly start around $250–$1,000 for local campaigns.
- Streaming gives precise targeting and reporting that broadcast radio does not.
- You supply a finished audio file, usually a :30 MP3, so production is on you.
How does Pandora advertising work?
Pandora sells audio ads that play between songs, often paired with a companion banner image. Advertisers pay per thousand impressions (CPM) and can target by location, age, gender, genre and listening context. Unlike broadcast radio, you can see impressions delivered and completion rates.
Pandora and streaming radio advertising costs
| Platform | Typical minimum spend | Typical CPM | Targeting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pandora (local) | $500–$1,000/mo | $8–$15 | Age, gender, zip code, genre |
| iHeartRadio (local) | $500–$2,000/mo | $10–$20 | DMA, demographics, genre |
| Spotify (Ad Studio) | $250/campaign | $15–$30 | Age, gender, interest, playlist |
These are typical ranges. Platforms change minimums and pricing often, so confirm current numbers in each platform's ad manager before you budget.
What does a Pandora campaign actually cost?
At a $10 CPM, a $1,000 budget buys about 100,000 ad impressions. A local campaign targeting one metro area for a month might run $500–$2,000. Higher CPMs apply when you add narrow targeting such as specific zip codes, demographics or premium listening contexts.
Streaming audio vs broadcast radio
| Broadcast radio | Streaming audio | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Per spot or weekly schedule | CPM (per 1,000 impressions) |
| Targeting | Station format and daypart | Demographics, location, genre, interest |
| Reporting | Estimated audience | Impressions, completion rate, sometimes clicks |
| Minimum budget | Higher per station | Often $250–$1,000 |
Many advertisers use both: broadcast for reach and credibility, streaming for targeted frequency.
How to make a Pandora or streaming audio ad
Streaming platforms need a finished audio file, usually a :30 or :15 MP3, and sometimes a companion image. They won't write or record the ad for you unless you pay for production. You can generate the script, voice and music in Audair and download a broadcast-ready MP3 that works on Pandora, iHeartRadio, Spotify and local radio.
- Keep it to one offer and one call to action. Listeners can't click a phone number.
- Give one memorable web address, since many streaming listeners are on their phones.
- Match the platform's length options, since :30 is the most common.
- Test two versions with different offers and compare completion rates.
Make your streaming audio ad
Script, voice, and music — broadcast-ready MP3 in under 5 minutes. Script and preview are free, no signup required. Pay only to download.
Build my ad — free preview →Frequently asked questions
How much does Pandora radio advertising cost?
Pandora audio ads are priced per thousand impressions (CPM), typically about $8–$15 for local campaigns, with minimum spends commonly around $500–$1,000 per month. Confirm current pricing in Pandora's ad manager.
How much does Spotify advertising cost?
Spotify Ad Studio ads typically run about $15–$30 CPM with minimums that can start around $250 per campaign.
Is Pandora advertising worth it for a small business?
It can be: you get precise location and demographic targeting, impression reporting and low minimums compared with many broadcast buys. Results depend on your offer and audience.
What format does a Pandora audio ad need?
Platforms generally require a finished audio file, most often a :30 or :15 MP3, sometimes with a companion image. Check the platform's current specs before uploading.
How do I make an ad for Pandora or Spotify?
Generate a script and voiceover with an AI ad builder like Audair, add a music bed, and download the MP3. The same file works on streaming platforms and local radio.