How Much Is Council Tax in Manchester in 2025?
Estimated reading time 4 minutes
For households across Manchester, council tax is a key bill, essential for supporting vital services like waste collection, public safety, and social care that help to keep the city running. In 2025, council tax rates are set to increase again, with many residents seeing higher bills from April. This blog will break down the expected increases, why they are happening, and what support is available for those who may struggle to pay.
Why is council tax increasing in 2025?
Manchester City Council has announced a 4.99% increase in council tax for 2025/26. This follows the government’s funding guidelines, which allow councils to raise council tax for general services by 2.99% and an additional 2% specifically for adult social care.
The increase is needed to help the council cover rising costs and budget shortfalls. Despite the increase, Manchester City Council is still facing a budget gap of £29 million, which means further financial planning and service adjustments will be required.
Council tax bands and proposed Increases
Council tax rates are based on property bands, which are determined by a property’s estimated value in 1991. Below is an estimate of how much council tax bills will rise in 2025 based on the proposed 4.99% increase:
| Band | 2024/25 Rate | Proposed 202/26 Rate | Annual Increase | Weekly Increase |
| A | £1,378.82 | £1,455.36 | £76.54 | £1.47 |
| B | £1,608.63 | £1,688.88 | £80.25 | £1.54 |
| C | £1,838.44 | £1,922.40 | £83.96 | £1.61 |
| D | £2,068.25 | £2,183.03 | £114.78 | £2.21 |
| E | £2,527.86 | £2,654.66 | £126.80 | £2.44 |
| F | £2,987.47 | £3,126.29 | £138.82 | £2.67 |
| G | £3,447.08 | £3,597.92 | £150.84 | £2.90 |
| H | £4,136.50 | £4,366.06 | £229.56 | £4.42 |
For most residents, this means an increase of around £60-£100 per year, depending on their property band.
What is the money being used for?
The council tax increase will help fund critical public services, including:
- Adult Social Care: A key priority, with a dedicated 2% increase to help address rising demand and funding shortfalls.
- Policing and Fire Services: The Greater Manchester Police and local fire services will receive additional funding to maintain emergency response services.
- Housing and Homelessness Support: More funding is being allocated to tackle homelessness in Manchester, where demand for emergency housing has increased.
- General Council Services: Everyday services such as road maintenance, waste collection, libraries, and public parks.
Changes to empty property charges
From April 2025, properties in Manchester that have been empty and furnished for more than 12 months will be charged 200% of the standard rate of council tax. This measure is aimed at reducing the number of vacant properties and encouraging landlords to put them back on the market. The change aligns with government policies to address housing shortages across the country.
Support for low-income households
Manchester City Council offers several support options for those who may be struggling to pay their council tax bill:
- Council Tax Support (CTS): A discount for people on low income or certain benefits. The maximum reduction is being increased from 82.5% to 85% in 2025.
- Single-person discount: A 25% discount for people who live alone.
- Student exemptions: Full-time students do not have to pay council tax.
- Disability reductions: Households with disabled residents may qualify for lower rates.
If you are struggling to pay your council tax, it is important to contact Manchester City Council as soon as possible to explore payment plans or reductions.
How can I check my new council tax bill?
Manchester City Council will send updated council tax bills in March 2025, showing the new rates from April. You can also check your council tax band and expected bill in the following ways:
- Visit the Manchester City Council website.
- Use the government’s council tax checker tool.
- Contact the council if you believe your property is in the wrong tax band.
The 2025 council tax increase in Manchester reflects the city’s need to raise funds for essential services while balancing budget pressures. While the increase is relatively modest for most households, it is still an added expense in a time of high living costs. If you are concerned about your ability to pay, take advantage of the council’s support schemes and payment options.
For more details on council tax changes in Manchester, visit the Manchester City Council website.
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