Americans' opposition to data centers surges 49 points in 9 months, survey finds
71% now oppose local data centers, up from 42% nine months ago
A new survey by Heatmap Pro shows American public sentiment has dramatically swung against data centers. In just nine months, opposition rose from 42% to 71%, a 49-point shift. Among 18-34 year olds, 80% oppose local data centers. Rural communities are especially affected, reporting rising utility bills, water shortages, and pollution.
The backlash is tied to broader AI skepticism. Executives citing AI productivity gains have enacted hiring freezes and layoffs, hitting young graduates hardest. Meanwhile, AI water demands are a growing bottleneck. Google recently pledged to replenish more water than it consumes by 2030 and modernize local infrastructure. The issue is becoming politically salient, with calls for regulatory action.
- 71% of Americans now oppose data centers near homes, up from 42% nine months ago
- Opposition highest among 18-34 year olds (80%), rural voters, and Democrats
- Google promises to replenish more water than it consumes by 2030 amid backlash
Why It Matters
Growing public opposition threatens the pace of AI infrastructure buildout and could spur stricter regulations.