Bend, Oregon Media Landscape Overview

This high‑growth Central Oregon DMA blends outdoor tourism, small business, and tech services. Stations prioritize wildfire, winter travel, and recreation safety with audiences mixing OTA, cable, and connected TV.

Media Ownership & Regulation

Group owners operate network affiliates and subchannels alongside PBS; EAS coordination supports wildfire/smoke, winter storms, and road closures.

FCC translator policy supports mountain coverage; civic and park agencies partner on public‑service and seasonal preparedness.

Digital Transformation & Connectivity

Newsrooms simulcast on apps, YouTube, and FAST; push alerts and newsletters drive timely updates for commuters and visitors.

Broadband build‑outs extend access into exurbs; libraries and schools back media literacy and device lending.

Leading Television Channels

• ABC affiliate: Local news, weather, investigations.
• CBS affiliate: Breaking news and sports.
• NBC affiliate: Consumer reporting and alerts.
• FOX affiliate: NFL, entertainment, local updates.
• PBS member: Educational/cultural programming.
• The CW/MyNetworkTV: Syndicated entertainment and features.
• Spanish‑language (regional): News and variety.
• Ion/MeTV (subs): Procedurals/classic TV.
• Weather subchannels: Continuous forecasts and radar.
• Local access: Public meetings and community programs.

Major Radio Broadcasting Networks

• NPR member station: News/talk and statewide reporting.
• All‑news/Traffic/Weather: Headlines, commute, alerts.
• Country: Local hosts and promotions.
• Top 40/CHR: Contemporary hits.
• Adult Contemporary: Workplace‑friendly playlists.
• Classic Rock: Catalog programming.
• Alternative/Rock: Regional music and events.
• Sports: Talk and play‑by‑play.
• Faith/Inspirational: Religious programming.
• Public safety/NOAA: Weather and emergency bulletins.

Media Consumption Patterns & Audience Behavior

Digital Engagement

CTV and social video extend reach beyond prime; real‑time push alerts support wildfire, smoke, and road conditions.

Tourism boards, schools, and agencies use Facebook/Instagram/YouTube for advisories and events.

Traditional Habits

OTA TV and radio remain essential for breaking weather and school/ski updates; drive‑time radio maintains commuters and service workers.

Public media and weeklies provide hyperlocal coverage and explainers.

Market Metrics & Industry Statistics

Media Trust & Consumer Preferences

Trust Landscape

Meteorology, investigative units, and public media explainers rate highly; clear, bilingual messaging broadens access for visitors.

Transparency and community engagement strengthen trust during fire season and elections.

Audience Preferences

Weather, outdoor safety, local sports, and lifestyle content perform well; short‑form advisories drive engagement.

Streaming replays and newsletters complement linear schedules.

Sources

• https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/report/2024/dma-rankings/
• https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/the-gauge/
• https://www.weather.gov/