10 Largest News Corporations In The United States
In an era of rapid information dissemination, Americans rely heavily on reputable news corporations to deliver accurate insights into local and global events that impact their daily lives. The demand for reliable journalism has only intensified in recent years, underscoring the critical role of news organizations in society.
Millions of people turn to their preferred news outlets to stay informed about current affairs. Given the diverse range of events that unfold daily, the news industry remains expansive and multifaceted.
Based on revenue and market reach, the ten largest news corporations serving the United States today are as follows:
DETAILED LIST OF THE 10 LARGEST NEWS CORPORATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES
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Annual Revenue: $103.56 billion
Comcast stands as the largest news provider in the United States, boasting an extensive portfolio across various media outlets. The company significantly outpaces its competitors in revenue, primarily due to its ownership of numerous cable channels that deliver news to American households, including:
- MSNBC
- CNBC
- USA Network
- E!
- Oxygen
In addition to cable channels, Comcast also owns renowned animation studios like:
- DreamWorks Animation
- Illumination
- Universal Animation Studios
Furthermore, Comcast operates Universal Parks and Resorts, solidifying its status as a major player in both media and entertainment sectors.
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Annual Revenue: $30.4 billion
WarnerMedia is a leading force in the U.S. news landscape, with significant holdings in broadcasting, film, and cable programming. Established as Time Warner Inc. in 1990, WarnerMedia has evolved under the ownership of AT&T, the world’s largest media conglomerate.
The corporation comprises three main divisions:
- Warner Bros Pictures Inc.
- Home Box Office Inc. (HBO)
- Turner Broadcasting System Inc.
By producing diverse forms of content, including news, films, and television series, WarnerMedia has cemented its position as one of the largest multi-billion dollar news companies in America.
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Annual Revenue: $20 billion
Founded in 2008 as a merger of various broadcasting and publishing organizations, Cox Media Group, under Apollo Global Management, has quickly grown to become a significant player in regional news media, primarily serving the Eastern United States.
The company operates multiple divisions handling newspapers, television, and radio news, with an emphasis on regional news channels.
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Annual Revenue: $14.514 billion
With nearly a century of operation, CBS, originally the Columbia Broadcasting System, has established itself as a cornerstone of American mass media, providing a wealth of national news through its various platforms, including:
- The CBS television networks (CBS News and CBS Sports)
- The CW (50% ownership)
- CBS Studios
- CBS Local
As part of ViacomCBS, CBS continues to be a dominant force in regional and national news media.
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Annual Revenue: $11.4 billion
Known for its iconic headquarters in Manhattan, Hearst Communications Inc. is one of the largest news companies in the U.S., operating through both print and broadcast media. Notable properties include:
- The Houston Chronicle
- The San Francisco Chronicle
- Cosmopolitan
- AE Networks (50% Ownership)
- ESPN (20% Ownership)
Hearst’s diverse portfolio allows it to maintain a significant presence in both written and visual news communications.
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BBC Worldwide. London, United Kingdom
Annual Revenue: $11.3 billion
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is pivotal for delivering international news to American audiences. Established post-World War I, the BBC operates as a public service broadcaster, providing news without advertising, which sets it apart from many private entities.
As the largest broadcaster globally by employee count, the BBC’s influence on American news consumption highlights its importance as one of the leading news corporations in the U.S.
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Annual Revenue: $9.008 billion
Originally known as News Corporation, News Corp remains a leading American news provider, having split into two entities in 2013. The company continues to own major outlets like Fox News and The Wall Street Journal, ensuring its prominence in the media landscape.
Notable subsidiaries include:
- News UK
- Dow Jones Company
- News Corp Australia
- Realtor.com
- HarperCollins
With a global audience, News Corp remains a key player in the news industry.
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The New York Times Company. New York, NY
Annual Revenue: $1.81 billion
Best known for its storied newspaper, The New York Times Company has adapted to changing media landscapes since its founding in the 1850s. The Times has maintained a commitment to daily publication, expanding into digital media and podcasting, such as acquiring Serial Productions in 2020.
This diversification has allowed The New York Times Company to remain a leading news provider in a rapidly evolving market.
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CNN. Atlanta, GA
Annual Revenue: $1.06 billion
As the pioneer of 24-hour news coverage, CNN has redefined how news is consumed in the U.S. Since its inception, CNN has played a crucial role in covering significant historical events, such as:
- The Gulf War
- September 11, 2001
- Presidential Elections 2008-2020
With a commitment to continuous news coverage, CNN remains one of the most-watched news channels, with a substantial audience following.
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National Public Radio. Washington, D.C.
Annual Revenue: $258.7 Million
Founded in 1970, National Public Radio (NPR) operates as an independent non-profit media organization, primarily supported by public funding and donations. NPR produces a variety of award-winning programs, such as:
- All Things Considered
- TED Radio Hour
- Morning Edition
- Here and Now
Attracting around 60 million listeners weekly, NPR continues to be a vital source of news and information for Americans, despite its smaller revenue compared to larger media corporations.
In conclusion, the news industry in the United States is shaped by these leading corporations that not only provide critical information but also adapt to the evolving landscape of media consumption. As technology and viewer preferences continue to shift, these companies remain at the forefront of delivering news that matters to Americans.
Author
Sky Ariella is a professional freelance writer, originally from New York. She has been featured on websites and online magazines covering topics in career, travel, and lifestyle. She received her BA in psychology from Hunter College.
