Data centers generate tax revenue and support the digital economy. Those benefits are real. But they also consume large tracts of land, demand substantial energy infrastructure and attract capital that might otherwise support housing construction.

When demand increases in a place where new housing can be built relatively easily, builders respond. Over time, more supply helps moderate price increases. But when demand increases in a place where new housing is tightly restricted, prices rise faster and land values climb.

“The state of current research findings is so united in opposition that the burden of proof rests squarely on subsidy proponents to provide robust evidence using established economic research methods to demonstrate the feasibility of any public stadium proposal.”

For municipal leaders, the real takeaway is this: any meaningful improvement in affordability will require building more homes. Whether your city’s true shortfall is 3 million or 13 million doesn’t change the next step—modernizing outdated land-use codes, reducing permitting delays, and legalizing the kinds of housing people need.

By resolving code compliance questions upfront, cities can reduce delays that add carrying costs and risk to housing projects.