EXHIBIT 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following registration statements:

• Registration Statements pertaining to the Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Award and Incentive Plan of Alexandria Real Estate Equities Inc. (Form S-8 No. 333-34223, Form S-8 No. 333-60075, Form S-8 No. 333-152433, Form S-8 No. 333-167889, Form S-8 No. 333-197212, and Form S-8 No. 333-212385);

• Registration Statement (Form S-3ASR No. 333-207762) and in the related Prospectus of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.;

• Registration Statement (Form S-3/A No. 333-56449) and in the related Prospectus of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.; and

• Registration Statement (Form S-3/A No. 333-81985) and in the related Prospectus of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.;

of our reports dated January 31, 2017 with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc., and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc., included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Los Angeles, California

January 31, 2017