Not in my backyard: Most Americans oppose AI data centers, Gallup finds

WASHINGTON - A majority of Americans oppose building artificial intelligence data centers in their local communities, according to a new Gallup poll.

The findings, from a March 2–18 Gallup survey, mark the first time the organization has measured public opinion on data center construction—an issue that has already sparked strong resistance in communities across the country. These facilities, which support AI systems used by businesses, universities and other institutions, require vast amounts of land, electricity and water to operate, prompting concerns about environmental impacts and potential increases in local utility costs.

By the numbers:

Seven in 10 Americans oppose building artificial intelligence data centers in their local communities, including 48% who say they are strongly opposed. Just over a quarter are in favor, with only 7% expressing strong support.

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The question mirrors Gallup’s long-standing measure of attitudes toward local nuclear power plants. In the same March survey, 53% of Americans said they would oppose a nuclear plant in their area—well below the 71% opposed to data centers. Opposition to nuclear plants has not exceeded 63% since Gallup began tracking the question in 2001.

Environmental, quality-of-life concerns drive opposition

By the numbers:

The March survey also asked Americans how concerned they are about the environmental impact of AI data centers. Nearly half, 46%, say they worry a great deal and another 24% a fair amount—levels that closely track overall opposition to building such facilities.

To better understand the reasons behind public opinion, Gallup followed up with an open-ended question in an April web survey of its panel. Those who support data centers in their area most often point to potential economic benefits, while opponents cite a broader range of concerns, led by environmental issues.

About half of opponents mention the heavy use of resources, including 18% who specifically cite water consumption and another 18% energy use. An additional 16% raise concerns about pollution, including noise as well as air and water impacts.

Roughly one in five opponents point to quality-of-life concerns, such as increased traffic, population growth or a preference for alternative land uses. A similar share cite possible economic downsides, including higher utility bills, rising living costs and the expense of construction, which could involve public funding.

Other opposition reflects general or specific concerns about artificial intelligence itself.

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Among supporters, about two-thirds cite economic benefits, including 55% who specifically mention job creation. Smaller shares point to increased tax revenue, housing and infrastructure development, or broader economic gains, while relatively few mention potential benefits of AI more directly.

Why you should care:

Expanding the use of artificial intelligence in the U.S. will require building more data centers capable of supporting the necessary computing power. While such facilities already exist in some areas—typically backed by large technology companies—most Americans appear resistant to adding more, with nearly half strongly opposed to construction in their communities.

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That resistance poses a significant challenge to the growth of AI infrastructure. The strength of public opposition suggests new projects could face grassroots pushback and legal hurdles. It also points to data center development emerging as a potential issue in local and state elections, putting politicians who support these projects in a politically difficult position.