Council tax bills across England rose by an average of 4.99% in April 2026 — the maximum increase permitted without a local referendum. For the average Band D household, that means an additional £104 per year, or just under £9 per month.
Band-by-Band Increases
Council tax is charged in proportion to the Band D rate, with properties valued lower paying less and those valued higher paying more. A Band D increase of £104 translates to:
- Band A: +£69 per year (£828 average)
- Band B: +£80 per year (£966 average)
- Band C: +£92 per year (£1,104 average)
- Band D: +£104 per year (£2,186 average in London, £1,938 England average)
- Band E: +£127 per year
- Band F: +£149 per year
- Band G: +£173 per year
- Band H: +£207 per year
Why Are Councils Raising Bills?
Local authorities across England face a combination of rising demand for adult social care, children's services, and homelessness support alongside construction cost inflation that has made capital projects significantly more expensive.
The Local Government Association estimates that English councils face a funding gap of £3.6 billion over the next two years even after the maximum council tax increase.
Can You Get a Reduction?
Council Tax Reduction (formerly Council Tax Benefit) is administered by local councils and can reduce or eliminate your bill if you're on a low income. Over 5 million households in England receive some reduction.
Single-person households are entitled to a 25% discount. Properties occupied solely by full-time students are exempt entirely.
