The global data center air handling unit (AHU) market is projected to grow from USD 4.00 billion in 2026 to USD 6.70 billion by 2032, representing a 9.0% CAGR, according to a MarketsandMarkets report issued Sept. 22, 2026. Growth is being driven by data center expansion, higher server rack power densities, artificial intelligence, machine learning, high-performance computing and demand for energy-efficient cooling. North America is projected to remain both the largest and fastest-growing region, with a 10.8% CAGR. AHUs integrated with chilled-water systems held a 38.3% market share in 2025, while hyperscale data centers accounted for 38.8%. The capacity segment of at least 50,001 M³/H is expected to lead during the forecast period. The market is moving toward smart, modular and hybrid cooling systems that combine AHUs with liquid-cooling technologies, although direct-to-chip and immersion cooling, high costs and integration complexity pose restraints and challenges.