Where is cbs

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System) is headquartered at the CBS Building at 51 West 52nd Street in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. The network was founded on September 18, 1927, by William S. Paley and has grown to become one of the 'Big Three' television networks in the United States, alongside NBC and ABC.

Key Facts

Founded on September 18, 1927, by William S. Paley
Headquartered at 51 West 52nd Street, New York City, NY 10019
Part of Paramount Global, formed through the 2019 merger of Viacom and CBS Corporation
Operates over 200 affiliated stations across the United States
Generated approximately $14.8 billion in revenue in 2023

Overview

CBS, or the Columbia Broadcasting System, is one of the oldest and most influential broadcast television networks in the United States. Founded on September 18, 1927, by William S. Paley, it began as a radio network before expanding into television in the 1940s. The network played a pivotal role in shaping American media, introducing iconic programs like "I Love Lucy" in 1951 and "60 Minutes" in 1968. Today, CBS is a cornerstone of American entertainment, news, and sports broadcasting, reaching millions of viewers daily.

The network's headquarters is located at the CBS Building, also known as Black Rock, at 51 West 52nd Street in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. This 38-story skyscraper, designed by architect Eero Saarinen, has served as CBS's corporate home since its completion in 1965. CBS is now part of Paramount Global, formed through the merger of Viacom and CBS Corporation in December 2019. This consolidation created a media giant with assets spanning television, film, and streaming services, positioning CBS within a broader entertainment ecosystem.

How It Works

CBS operates as a broadcast network, distributing content through a combination of owned-and-operated stations, affiliates, and digital platforms.

Broadcast Distribution: CBS reaches audiences via over 200 affiliated stations across the United States, covering all 50 states. These stations broadcast CBS programming, including primetime shows, news, and sports, to approximately 120 million households. The network uses a mix of owned stations (like WCBS-TV in New York) and independent affiliates to ensure nationwide coverage.
Content Production: CBS produces and acquires a diverse range of content, including scripted series, reality TV, news, and sports. In 2023, CBS aired over 1,500 hours of original programming, with hits like "NCIS" and "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert." The network invests heavily in production, with an annual budget exceeding $4 billion for content creation and licensing.
Digital Streaming: CBS has adapted to the digital age through platforms like Paramount+, which launched in 2021 and has over 67 million subscribers as of 2024. This service streams CBS content live and on-demand, including exclusive originals and library shows. Additionally, CBS All Access, the predecessor to Paramount+, was introduced in 2014, marking an early move into streaming.
Revenue Model: CBS generates revenue primarily through advertising, affiliate fees, and subscription services. In 2023, advertising accounted for about 60% of its $14.8 billion revenue, with affiliate fees from cable and satellite providers contributing 30%. The remaining 10% comes from streaming subscriptions and syndication deals, showcasing a diversified financial strategy.

Key Comparisons

Feature	CBS	NBC
Year Founded	1927	1926
Headquarters Location	51 West 52nd Street, NYC	30 Rockefeller Plaza, NYC
Parent Company	Paramount Global	NBCUniversal (Comcast)
Primary Streaming Service	Paramount+ (67M+ subs)	Peacock (34M+ subs)
2023 Revenue	$14.8 billion	$39.3 billion (NBCUniversal total)

Why It Matters

Cultural Impact: CBS has shaped American culture for nearly a century, with shows like "M*A*S*H" (1972-1983) and "Survivor" (since 2000) influencing TV trends and societal discussions. The network's news division, CBS News, founded in 1927, has been a trusted source for decades, with "60 Minutes" winning over 150 Emmy Awards. This legacy underscores CBS's role in informing and entertaining the public.
Economic Contribution: As a major media entity, CBS supports thousands of jobs in production, broadcasting, and digital services. In 2023, it employed over 25,000 people directly and contributed to a broader media industry that generates over $700 billion annually in the U.S. Its advertising revenue also fuels local economies through affiliate stations.
Innovation in Media: CBS has pioneered advancements in broadcasting, such as early color TV broadcasts in the 1950s and the shift to streaming with Paramount+. The network's adaptation to digital trends, like launching CBS All Access in 2014, set a precedent for traditional networks embracing online platforms. This innovation ensures CBS remains relevant in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Looking ahead, CBS is poised to continue its influence through expanded digital offerings and global partnerships. With Paramount+ growing internationally and investments in original content, the network aims to reach new audiences while maintaining its core broadcast strength. As media consumption habits evolve, CBS's blend of tradition and innovation will likely keep it at the forefront of entertainment for years to come.