How Much is Council Tax in Leicester?

If you’re moving to Leicester or already living here, chances are you’ve asked yourself: how much is council tax in Leicester? It’s one of those essential costs that affects everyone – whether you’re budgeting for a new home, trying to cut expenses, or preparing to sell your property quickly.

We know these local details matter. That’s why we’ve put together this straightforward guide to Leicester’s council tax rates, how they’re calculated, and what it means for homeowners like you. No jargon, just clear information to help you plan better.

Leicester council tax by band

Council tax in Leicester, like everywhere in England, is based on which valuation band your property falls into. These bands haven’t changed since 1991, which can seem odd, but it’s how the system works.

For the 2025/26 tax year, here’s what Leicester residents pay:

• Band A (properties valued at up to £40,000 in 1991): £1,605.15
• Band B (£40,001 to £52,000): £1,872.67
• Band C (£52,001 to £68,000): £2,140.20
• Band D (£68,001 to £88,000): £2,407.72
• Band E (£88,001 to £120,000): £2,942.77
• Band F (£120,001 to £160,000): £3,477.82
• Band G (£160,001 to £320,000): £4,012.87
• Band H (over £320,000): £4,815.44

These figures come straight from Leicester City Council’s website and include charges for local services, police and fire services.

Most three-bedroom family homes in Leicester fall into Band D, which works out at about £166.65 per month when spread over twelve months. Flats and smaller properties typically sit in Bands A to C, while larger detached homes usually fall into the higher bands.

How does Leicester compare to nearby areas?

When we help homeowners understand local costs, we often get asked how Leicester stacks up against neighbouring cities. Here’s the quick comparison:

• Nottingham: Band D pays £2,656.19
• Birmingham: Band D pays £2,237.00
• Derby: Band D pays £2,195.75

As you can see, Leicester sits somewhere in the middle – not the cheapest in the region, but certainly more affordable than some bigger cities. The exact difference depends on your property band, but it’s worth considering if you’re comparing areas to live or thinking about moving.

Who has to pay council tax in Leicester?

Nearly every adult living in a property needs to pay council tax, with a few exceptions:

• Full-time students don’t pay
• People on certain apprentice schemes may be exempt
• Those with severe mental impairments might not need to pay

Even if you’re renting, the responsibility usually falls to the tenants rather than the landlord, unless it’s a house in multiple occupation (HMO) or the property is empty.

We often speak to landlords who are surprised to learn they’re responsible for council tax when their property is empty. It’s one of those costs that can catch you out if you’re not prepared.

Could you be paying less? Discounts and reductions

Many Leicester residents don’t realise they might qualify for money off their council tax bill. Here are the main ways you could reduce what you pay:

Single person discount

If you’re the only adult in your home, you get 25% off. About a third of all households qualify for this but forget to claim it.

Student households

Properties where everyone is a full-time student pay no council tax at all. You’ll need to provide certificates from your university or college.

Reductions for disabled people

If someone in your household needs extra space or facilities because of a disability, you might qualify for a reduction.

Council tax support

If you’re on a low income, you could get help through Leicester’s local Council Tax Support scheme. The amount depends on your circumstances.

Applying for these discounts is straightforward through the Leicester City Council website. We always recommend checking – you might be surprised at what you’re entitled to.

What if you think your council tax band is wrong?

We’ve helped many homeowners who suspect their property is in the wrong council tax band. Here’s what to do if you think yours might be incorrect:

1. First, check what band similar properties on your street are in by using Gov.uk’s tool (or you can write in if you can’t use the online tool). 
2. If yours seems out of line, you can challenge it.
3. A word of caution – your band could go up as well as down. Only about one in three challenges actually result in a change. If you’re unsure, it might be worth speaking to other residents first or getting professional advice.

Why council tax matters when selling your home

When we help homeowners sell their property quickly, council tax often comes up in conversations with potential buyers. People want to know what they’ll be paying, so having this information ready can make your home more attractive.

Properties in higher bands can still sell well, but it helps to be upfront about costs. 

Need to sell your Leicester home quickly?

At Sell House Fast we offer:

• A free, no-obligation cash offer within 24 hours
• No estate agent fees or hidden charges
• Flexible completion dates to suit you
• A personalised service throughout the process

We buy houses in all council tax bands across Leicester – from compact Band A flats to super-spacious Band H homes. However old your property or whatever its condition, we can make you a fair offer.

If you’re thinking about selling, why not find out what your home could be worth? Get your free cash offer now – it only takes a moment, and there’s absolutely no pressure.

We’re here to help Leicester homeowners move on their terms, with none of the stress of traditional house selling. So let’s have a chat about how we can help you.