Council Tax Changes for 2026/27: What's Going Up and Why
The average council tax bill in England rose by 4.9% in April 2026. Here is what changed, which councils raised the most, and new rules on second homes and empty properties.
The Headline Numbers
England
+4.9%
£111 more per year (Band D average)
Wales
+5.2%
£113 more per year
Scotland
+7.1%
£110 more per year
For the average Band D property in England, the 4.9% rise means an extra £111 per year, taking the annual bill from £2,281 to £2,392. Over 10 monthly payments, that is an extra £11.10 per month.
The Referendum Threshold
In England, councils can raise the main council tax element by up to 2.99% without a referendum. On top of that, councils with social care responsibilities can add an adult social care precept of up to 2%. Combined, this gives a maximum increase of 4.99% before a referendum is required.
Most councils raised bills by the maximum 4.99% in 2026/27. Seven councils received special permission from the government for higher increases.
Councils with Above-Referendum Increases
Seven councils received special government permission for higher increases in 2026/27.
| Council | Increase | Extra on Band D average |
|---|---|---|
| North Somerset | 8.99% | £215 |
| Shropshire | 8.99% | £215 |
| Worcestershire | 8.99% | £215 |
| Trafford | 7.49% | £179 |
| Warrington | 7.49% | £179 |
| Windsor and Maidenhead | 7.49% | £179 |
| Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole | 6.74% | £161 |
These councils received permission due to financial pressures, typically related to social care or historical debt. The government grants this on a case-by-case basis.
Second Homes Premium
From April 2025, councils in England have the power to charge a 100% premium on second homes, doubling the council tax bill. This was enabled by the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023.
Many councils have already opted in, particularly in areas with high numbers of holiday homes (Cornwall, Devon, Lake District, coastal areas). More councils are expected to adopt the premium in future years.
The premium applies to furnished properties that are not anyone's main residence. There are limited exceptions for properties being actively marketed for sale or let (up to 12 months), properties undergoing major repair, and job-related second homes.
Example: A Band D second home in an area charging the premium would pay £4,784 per year (£2,392 base rate plus £2,392 premium), instead of the normal £2,392.
Empty Property Premiums
The framework for empty property premiums in England is now:
Empty 1 to 5 years
+100%
Double the normal rate
Empty 5 to 10 years
+200%
Triple the normal rate
Empty over 10 years
+300%
Quadruple the normal rate
Not all councils apply the maximum premiums. Check your local authority's policy.
What This Means for Your Bill
Worked Example: Band D, 4.99% increase area
2025/26
£2,281
£228/month (10 months)
2026/27
£2,392
£239/month (10 months)
That is an extra £111 per year or £11.10 per month on a 10-month payment plan. With single person discount (25% off), the increase is £83 per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did council tax go up in April 2026?
4.9% in England (£111 more per year for average Band D), 5.2% in Wales, and 7.1% in Scotland.
Which councils raised the most?
North Somerset, Shropshire, and Worcestershire at 8.99%. Trafford, Warrington, and Windsor and Maidenhead at 7.49%. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole at 6.74%.
What is the second homes premium?
A 100% surcharge on furnished second homes. Councils can opt in from April 2025 onwards. It effectively doubles the council tax bill on second homes.
What is the referendum threshold?
Councils can raise by up to 2.99% (main element) plus 2% (social care precept) = 4.99% total without a referendum. Anything above this needs a referendum or government permission.