This dataset contains the data associated with the following publication: Tebbett SB, Bellwood DR (2021) Algal turf productivity on coral reefs: A meta-analysis. Marine Environmental Research 168: 105311 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105311 In this study we examined the productivity and turnover of algal turfs on coral reefs. To do this we sourced data on algal turf productivity and turnover from the literature. In addition, we sourced data on variables related to where and how these data were collected to examine how these factors shaped algal turf productivity and turnover patterns. To source this data we used a meta-analysis of the literature following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocols. As this dataset was based on a literature search it spans a number of coral reef locations including the Great Barrier Reef, Caribbean and Hawaii and over 50 years (1965-2017). For full methodological details, please see the published manuscript (referenced above). Details of the two datasets (productivity and turnover) including units of measure can be found in the 'read me' file.