Yes, a bit optimistic, but, in most cases, accurate.Again, those maps are unduly optimistic. WLW's signal is usable by the average listener in places like Dayton and, maybe, Lexington and the other nearby areas...
In recent years, the only markets outside of Cincy that they have shown up in ratings-wise are Dayton and Lima .
Take 550-KTRS in St. Louis.
The powerful AM is regularly received in Chicago's suburbs.
https://www.radiodiscussions.com/threads/am-frequency-of-the-week-550.701544/#post-6145857
In the near north Chicago suburbs It's a weak KTRS (KSD when I first heard it) during the daytime. At night it's KTRS a bit stronger. I've also heard Cincinnati a few times, but not often. Many years ago I heard KFYR Bismarck, ND a few times pre-sunrise. Can't remember anything else at this location.