# Consultants warn AI spending will outpace budgets

> Bain says AI compute demand could need $6 trillion a year by 2031; McKinsey warns US government AI bills are rising despite falling per‑token costs.

Oossa · 2026-10-02 · https://oossa.com/en/consultants-warn-ai-spending-will-outpace-budgets

Two new consulting reports say AI costs are climbing for businesses and governments. Bain & Company estimates the industry will need $6 trillion in annual revenue by 2031, driven by new markets and products. McKinsey’s study of US government AI use finds per‑token prices falling but total bills growing as AI agents consume more compute. Both firms suggest the spending surge could strain budgets.

## The facts

- Bain predicts $6 trillion annual AI revenue needed by 2031
- McKinsey notes rising total AI bills for US government agencies

## Why it matters

Government budget planners may have to allocate far more money to AI services than they currently expect.

## Sources & references

1. [AI costs are rising for organizations, reports warn](https://www.semafor.com/article/10/02/2026/ai-costs-are-rising-for-organizations-reports-warn) – Semafor, 2026-10-02

Last updated: 2026-10-02