Data Center Construction Reaches Record $25.2 Billion in January 2026
January 2026 marked a record $25.2 billion in data center construction starts across the U.S. This included 20 projects, with four major developments valued at $10 billion, $1.8 billion, $1.3 billion, and another $10 billion project. The total spending for the past year reached $103.7 billion. Construction costs per square foot surged from $183 in 2020 to a projected $488 in 2026. The Southeast remains the preferred region, accounting for over 56% of near-term project spending, while Texas is emerging as a new hotspot for data center development.
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In January 2026, data center construction starts totaled $25.2 billion, the highest monthly figure since 2020, including 20 projects and four major developments valued at $10 billion and $1.8 billion, among others. The trailing twelve-month total is now $103.7 billion.
Costs per square foot rose from $183 in 2020 to a projected $488 in 2026. The Southeast dominated with over 56% of near-term spending, while Texas is becoming a key focus for new projects amid increasing power demand. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas reported a rise in interconnection requests, indicating significant interest from data centers.
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