Turner & Townsend releases global data center cost index

Turner & Townsend has published its tenth annual Data center construction cost index 2026-27, providing a global benchmark for data center construction costs across 62 markets.

• The report covers 62 markets, including 12 new additions, and is based on data from over 500 live or recent projects plus a survey of 401 industry leaders.
• Key findings include 52% of respondents seeing 6-15% cost inflation in 2026, Tokyo ranking highest at US$18.28 per watt, and AI-ready facilities in the US costing about 10% more than traditional facilities.
• The report also highlights 81% of respondents reporting skilled labour constraints, rising demand for MEP trades and electrical specialists, and the increasing influence of governments on data center delivery.