Vinyl records, 19th year of growth in the USA

2025 will have been the nineteenth consecutive year of growth for 33⅓ RPM vinyl record sales in the United States. More precisely, 46.8 million vinyl records (43.6 million the previous year) were sold in 2025, whereas this figure was below one million in 2006, the year that marked the return of popularity for this format. Vinyl: A story that dates back to the 1800s. As a reminder, vinyl as we know it began its career in 1948. Its basic technology even dates back to the late 1800s! According to the latest figures from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), 33⅓ RPM records still represent nearly half of album sales in the United States in 2025. However, when taking into account the figures for streaming singles and direct purchases, this proportion falls to less than 5% in album consumption equivalent. In terms of revenue, vinyl accounts for 9% of music sales in the United States (slightly better than the 8% projected for 2024). Only 50% of record buyers own a turntable. Even though vinyl's impact on the music market remains negligible, its growth is nonetheless impressive considering its age. It's worth noting a curious detail: only 50% of record buyers own a turntable, acquiring this format solely for its collector appeal.