Global General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) Market to Reach US$154.7 Million by 2030

The global market for General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) estimated at US$134.5 Million in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$154.7 Million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 2.4% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Handheld General Mobile Radio Service, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 2.9% CAGR and reach US$98.1 Million by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the In-Vehicle General Mobile Radio Service segment is estimated at 1.4% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$36.7 Million While China is Forecast to Grow at 4.5% CAGR

The General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) market in the U.S. is estimated at US$36.7 Million in the year 2024. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$29.5 Million by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 4.5% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 0.9% and 2.1% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 1.4% CAGR.

Global "General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)" Market – Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Why Is GMRS Experiencing a Resurgence in an Era Dominated by Smartphones and Digital Connectivity?

Despite the dominance of cellular networks and internet-based communication tools, the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) is witnessing renewed interest, particularly among outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, off-grid users, and rural communities. GMRS provides reliable two-way voice communication over UHF frequencies, typically offering extended range and higher power output than Family Radio Service (FRS) units. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, resilience, and independence from cellular infrastructure—making it a preferred choice in environments where network coverage is unreliable or absent. In the U.S., where GMRS is most widely used, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) relaxed licensing requirements in 2017, allowing broader family and group usage under a single license. This has further propelled interest in GMRS radios for recreational, community, and disaster preparedness applications. As concerns over communication reliability during natural disasters and grid failures rise globally, GMRS is becoming an increasingly attractive backup and off-network communication tool.

How Are Hardware Advancements and Integration Features Enhancing GMRS Utility?

Modern GMRS radios have evolved significantly from their early analog designs, thanks to advances in miniaturization, digital tuning, and ruggedization. Today’s GMRS devices offer improved battery life, NOAA weather alerts, privacy code settings, USB charging, and dual-band monitoring capabilities. Many models are now compatible with repeater systems, which extend communication range well beyond the usual line-of-sight limits—up to 20-50 miles in optimal conditions. Some units integrate GPS tracking, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone apps for location sharing and text messaging over radio frequencies, enhancing both recreational and tactical applications. Manufacturers are also producing waterproof and dust-resistant radios built to withstand extreme environments, increasing adoption among hunters, hikers, construction crews, and off-roaders. These technology-driven upgrades are making GMRS a more versatile, feature-rich solution while still retaining its core advantage: instant, infrastructure-free voice communication.

What Role Do Regulations, Licensing Trends, and Niche Markets Play in Market Evolution?

Regulatory frameworks and licensing norms significantly shape GMRS adoption, particularly in countries where spectrum access is restricted or segmented. In the U.S., GMRS operates on 22 channels around 462 and 467 MHz, with users required to obtain a low-cost license (no test needed) from the FCC. This licensing system, which allows use by the entire family under one registration, has contributed to a substantial user base. In other regions, regulatory uncertainty or limited frequency allocation has constrained GMRS growth, though interest is building in parts of Canada, the Philippines, and select Latin American markets. At the same time, specific use cases—such as community emergency response teams (CERTs), rural property management, and event coordination—are forming niche demand clusters. The increasing popularity of off-grid lifestyles and preparedness culture (prepping) is also contributing to GMRS radio sales. Industry players are responding by offering pre-programmed radios, training resources, and community forums to ease user onboarding and expand grassroots adoption.

What Are the Primary Growth Drivers Expanding the Global GMRS Market?

The growth in the global General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) market is driven by several factors rooted in changing communication needs, technology improvements, and user behavior trends. First, rising concerns over communication reliability during natural disasters, blackouts, or off-grid scenarios are encouraging individuals and organizations to adopt GMRS as a dependable alternative to cellular or internet-based systems. Second, hardware innovation—such as repeater-compatible radios, integrated GPS, and mobile-friendly features—is broadening the appeal of GMRS to both professional users and recreational audiences. Third, the growing popularity of outdoor recreation, rural tourism, and adventure travel is driving demand for compact, durable radios that ensure safe and instant group communication without relying on networks. Fourth, regulatory easing (such as simplified FCC licensing) and public education campaigns are lowering entry barriers and expanding the user base. Lastly, the rise of niche communities—including survivalists, homesteaders, and remote workers—who prioritize communication independence and privacy is accelerating GMRS uptake. These converging drivers position GMRS as a resilient and steadily growing segment within the global wireless communications market.