New Jersey Residents Oppose Local Data Centers

A new Stockton University survey shows most residents prefer to keep large data storage facilities out of their towns.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Data Centers

A large, utilitarian concrete data center building stands in a quiet, sprawling industrial landscape under an overcast sky. — A recent Stockton University survey reveals that most New Jersey residents oppose the construction of large-scale data storage facilities in their municipalities. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you support the construction of large-scale data centers in your local community?

A majority of New Jersey residents now oppose the development of data centers within their state. Public support drops significantly when the proposed construction is moved to their specific municipalities.

Why it matters

The tension stems from concerns over the high electricity and water consumption required by data centers, as well as the noise generated by their cooling and backup systems.

Currently, 93 New Jersey municipalities have implemented moratoriums on data center construction to restrict development. This figure significantly outpaces bans in other states, with Michigan and Ohio reporting 63 and 55 respective municipal moratoriums.

The players

The Hughes Center for Public Policy

This organization operates within Stockton University and focuses on research regarding public policy issues affecting the region.

Stockton University

Located in Galloway, this public university serves as a hub for academic research and polling in New Jersey.

The details

Opposition is divided along political lines, with 72% of New Jersey Democrats and 44% of Republicans expressing disapproval for data centers in their communities. These facilities are increasingly scrutinized for the heavy infrastructure strain they place on local utility grids.

Stockton University released the results of its state-wide public policy survey in October 2026.

The Tech Race

The widespread use of municipal moratoriums follows a pattern of local governance attempting to slow the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure. This development marks a departure from historic industrial growth by prioritizing local utility stability over large-scale tech integration.

Residents in towns with active moratoriums will likely see continued local zoning restrictions that prevent new facility construction. This development may influence utility rate stability and local noise levels by limiting industrial-scale energy demand and generator usage.

The takeaway

The sharp decline in support for data centers as they approach residential areas highlights a major conflict between digital infrastructure needs and local quality of life. Communities concerned about these facilities should monitor local zoning board agendas for updates on existing moratoriums.