Mesa, Arizona, is quickly becoming a hotspot for data centers, and the latest addition to the growing tech landscape is Novva Data Centers’ massive $3 billion campus. This project, recently approved by Mesa’s Planning and Zoning Board, will cover 159 acres near Warner and Ellsworth Roads and add over 1.1 million square feet of data halls, office space, and supporting infrastructure.
For real estate investors, this development signals major opportunities—but also some important considerations.
What’s in the Works?
Novva’s Mesa campus will include:
- Five large data halls, each around 225,000 square feet
- A 150,000-square-foot office building
- An 85,000-square-foot warehouse
- Retail buildings totaling over 39,000 square feet
Construction is expected to begin in summer 2025, with the first phase completed by late 2026. Given the scale of this project, it will bring new jobs to the area, including construction roles, IT positions, and corporate jobs.
Why Is Mesa a Data Center Hotspot?
Mesa has been attracting major tech players for several years. Google, Amazon, Meta (Facebook), CyrusOne, and EdgeConneX all have or are building data centers in the region. Currently, over 14.8 million square feet of data center space is either under construction or planned.
Why are so many companies flocking to Mesa?
- Business-Friendly Environment – Arizona’s relatively low taxes and streamlined regulations make it appealing for tech expansion.
- Strategic Location – The Phoenix metro area has strong infrastructure, access to major power grids, and lower risk of natural disasters.
- Energy & Sustainability – Novva’s project, in particular, will feature water-free cooling technology, addressing concerns over water use in the desert.
How This Impacts Real Estate Investors
1. Increased Demand for Rental Housing
With more tech companies moving in, demand for housing near Mesa’s tech corridor is likely to rise. Construction workers, IT professionals, and corporate employees will all need places to live, making single-family rentals and multi-unit properties valuable assets.
2. Property Value Growth
As Mesa cements its status as a tech hub, property values in the area could see long-term appreciation. Investors looking to buy in the southeast Mesa region may benefit from early positioning before demand peaks.
3. Retail and Commercial Leasing Opportunities
Novva’s plans include retail space along Ellsworth Road, which could attract businesses catering to the growing workforce. Investors should keep an eye on mixed-use and commercial leasing opportunities near the data center.
4. A Potential Slowdown in Future Data Centers
While Mesa is welcoming Novva, city officials have suggested they may not approve many more data center projects. If demand remains high but supply is capped, this could further drive up property values and rental rates in the area.
Final Thoughts
Novva Data Centers’ $3 billion investment in Mesa marks another major step in the city’s transformation into a tech powerhouse. For real estate investors, this expansion could mean higher rental demand, rising property values, and new commercial opportunities.
If you’re considering investing in Mesa, now is the time to watch the market closely and position yourself to benefit from this booming tech sector.