Metro Atlanta now has the largest data center construction pipeline in North America, according to CBRE’s first-half 2026 market report. The firm counted 2,882 megawatts of capacity under construction in Atlanta, ahead of Northern Virginia’s 2,420.2 megawatts.
CBRE reported that Atlanta’s pipeline grew 52.3% year over year. The surge reflects strong demand for cloud computing and artificial-intelligence infrastructure, along with the region’s available land, fiber connections and access to power.
The ranking measures projects under construction rather than completed operating capacity. Northern Virginia remains the continent’s largest established data center market, while Atlanta has taken the lead in development currently underway.
Rapid growth has also intensified local debates about electricity use, water consumption, tax incentives and where large facilities should be built. Several metro Atlanta governments have reviewed zoning rules as residents and utilities weigh the industry’s economic benefits against infrastructure demands.
Featured image: Representative company-supplied file photo via WSB-TV.
