Local news refers to journalism that focuses on events, issues and stories within a geographic area. It serves a vital role in fostering a sense of community identity by covering stories that resonate with residents, reflecting their values and culture. It also helps citizens stay informed about government actions and services at the local level, which can promote civic engagement and participation.
Local newspapers and television stations have long been the main outlets for local news. However, over the past decade, many have closed and consolidated into large media conglomerates. In addition, digital platforms offer new opportunities to deliver local news and information. These trends challenge local news organizations to find sustainable business models and to continue to produce high quality reporting.
In the United States, most Americans say they get local news at least sometimes. They tend to follow news about topics ranging from daily concerns like weather and traffic, to civic information about schools, crime and politics, as well as cultural news about arts and sports. Those who are most attached to their community are more likely to say they get news about all of these topics.
Local news coverage can take a variety of forms, from for-profit newspapers and nonprofit investigative journalism outlets to social media and collaboratives between multiple partners. For example, the Boyle Heights Beat is a bilingual community newspaper in Los Angeles that trains young reporters from local high schools. Their reporting aims to inform local citizens about the neighborhood and its problems, and often focuses on stories that would not appeal to a national audience (subverting the “murders and festivals syndrome”). This sort of hyperlocal news can be especially effective in reaching minority communities.