UK Council Tax Rises 2026: How Much More Will You Pay?

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.

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Band-by-Band Increases

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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:

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– **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

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Why Are Councils Raising Bills?

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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.

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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.

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Can You Get a Reduction?

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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.

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Single-person households are entitled to a 25% discount. Properties occupied solely by full-time students are exempt entirely.

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