The Loss of Local News—The Impact | The Pew Charitable Trusts

Our Work

Our projects are ambitious, consistent with a tested investment philosophy, and designed to reap measurable benefits for the public. Throughout our history, Pew has focused on impact—asking tough questions, seeking out evidence, working with strong partners, bringing unique interests together, and striving for effective solutions that address important issues.

Our affiliate Pew Research Center is focused around tracking important changes—using data-based research—to help policy analysts, government officials, and the public identify and prepare for future challenges.
Advance Health & Well-Being 40 Years of Investment in Innovative Science
Trust Magazine

Trust Article February 21, 2025
Insights & Perspectives

As part of our mission to inform the public, Pew experts offer nonpartisan, rigorous reports, research, and recommendations. We also share research findings, analysis, essays, and other insights in our magazines and podcast.

View All Insights
- Trend Magazine
  Trend focuses on policy issues in the United States and around the world and features...
- Trust Magazine
  Trust features articles on Pew's efforts to address the challenges of a changing world...
- After the Fact Podcast
  Pew's podcast provides data and expert analysis on the biggest challenges facing...
Sign Up

Receive our best conservation research bi-weekly—stunning photos, wins, and action alerts.

Email
About

For more than 75 years, we have used data to make a difference—addressing the challenges of a changing world by illuminating issues, creating common ground, and advancing ambitious strategies that lead to tangible progress.

Learn more about our affiliate Pew Research Center and its connection to our work.
Advance Health & Well-Being Looking Back on a Year of Milestones
Trust Magazine

Trust Article February 21, 2025

PODCAST February 28, 2020

Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Pandora Download (MP3) Transcript (PDF) RSS New to podcasts?

Stat: 71: The percentage of Americans who believe that their local news outlet is doing well financially.

Story: Local news outlets are struggling against declines in circulation and advertising, with 2,100 newspapers closing over the past 15 years. In the first installment of our three-part series on the changing landscape of local news in America, we hear from experts on what’s changed and how it may be affecting our communities.

Related resources:

2018 Report: The Expanding News Desert

Newspapers Fact Sheet

Political Consequences of the Endangered Local Watchdog: Newspaper Decline and Mayoral Elections in the United States

State of the News Media

More Episodes

Stay in touch

We want to hear from you. Reach us with your thoughts at [email protected] or @pewtrusts on Twitter. You can also rate our show or post a brief review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and anywhere else you listen or subscribe to the podcast.

MORE FROM PEW

Philadelphians’ Views on the Opioid Crisis Are Shifting

Student Loan Borrowers May Struggle With Financial Security

Federal Share of State Budgets Remains High, But Uncertainties Lie Ahead

The Share of State Budgets Spent on Medicaid Posts Largest Annual Increase in 20 Years