The New York Times and the Market for Local Newspapers - American Economic Association
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  5. The New York Times and the Market for Local Newspapers

American Economic Review

ISSN 0002-8282 (Print) | ISSN 1944-7981 (Online)

The New York Times and the Market for Local Newspapers

  • Lisa M. George
  • Joel Waldfogel
American Economic Review
vol. 96, no. 1, March 2006
(pp. 435–447)
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Abstract

Recent technological advances have dramatically lowered the cost of transmitting information over large distances. In the late 1990s, the New York Times implemented a national distribution strategy, expanding delivery in over 100 cities. Using cross-sectional and longitudinal data on local newspaper circulation, Times penetration, and local newspapers characteristics, we find that as Times circulation grows in a market, local newspaper circulation declines among college-educated readers. Local newspapers reposition toward local and away from national coverage, raising circulation among individuals without a degree. Availability of national newspapers in local markets changes the relationship between local preferences and local products.

Citation

George, Lisa, M., and Joel Waldfogel. 2006. "The New York Times and the Market for Local Newspapers." American Economic Review, 96 (1): 435–447. DOI: 10.1257/000282806776157551

JEL Classification

  • L11 Production, Pricing, and Market Structure; Size Distribution of Firms
  • L82 Entertainment; Media