Scottish Borders Council Tax Bands by Area
How council tax works in the Scottish Borders, what you'll pay, and how to get discounts.
How council tax bands work
Every residential property in Scotland is assigned a council tax band from A (lowest) to H (highest). Bands are based on property values as of April 1991 — they haven't been revalued since. This means a flat worth £30,000 in 1991 might now be worth £250,000 but still sits in Band B.
The Scottish Borders Council sets its own rates each year. As a tenant, you are responsible for paying council tax (unless it's included in your rent, which is rare).
Scottish Borders council tax rates
Approximate annual costs for 2025/26:
| Band | Property value (1991) | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Up to £27,000 | ~£900 | ~£75 |
| B | £27,001–£35,000 | ~£1,050 | ~£88 |
| C | £35,001–£45,000 | ~£1,200 | ~£100 |
| D | £45,001–£58,000 | ~£1,350 | ~£113 |
| E | £58,001–£80,000 | ~£1,650 | ~£138 |
| F | £80,001–£106,000 | ~£1,950 | ~£163 |
| G | £106,001–£212,000 | ~£2,250 | ~£188 |
| H | Over £212,000 | ~£2,700 | ~£225 |
Rates are approximate. Check the Scottish Borders Council website for current figures.
Typical bands by Scottish Borders area
- Band A–B: Gorgie, Dalry, parts of Leith — typically smaller flats in tenement buildings
- Band C–D: Marchmont, Bruntsfield, Newington, Abbeyhill — the most common bands for 1–2 bed flats
- Band E–F: Stockbridge, New Town, Morningside — larger flats and period properties
- Band G–H: Murrayfield, Cramond, Grange — detached houses and premium addresses
Discounts and exemptions
Single person discount (25% off)
If you're the only adult in the property, you get 25% off your council tax. This is the most common discount — you just need to tell the council. It applies automatically once registered.
Student exemption (100% off)
If everyone living in the property is a full-time student, the property is completely exempt from council tax. You'll need to provide a student certificate from your university. If you share with a non-student, they'll need to pay — but may qualify for the single person discount.
Council tax reduction (income-based)
If you're on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you may qualify for a council tax reduction. This is means-tested — apply through the Scottish Borders Council.
Disability reduction
If you or someone in your household is disabled and the property has been adapted (e.g. wheelchair access, extra bathroom), you may be entitled to a reduction of one band.
How to check your band
Search the Scottish Assessors Association website by postcode or address. If you think your band is wrong, you can appeal — but be aware the band could go up as well as down.
Setting up council tax
When you move into a new property, you need to register with the Scottish Borders Council for council tax. You can do this online. You'll need your new address, move-in date, and details of everyone living in the property. Payment is usually by monthly direct debit spread over 10 months (April to January), though you can request 12-month payment.
Council tax when you move
You're liable from the day you move in. Tell the council your move-in date and they'll calculate your bill. If you're moving out, give them your leaving date so they can close your account. You don't pay council tax on two properties simultaneously — only where you actually live.
Factor council tax into your budget when searching for properties. Our neighbourhood guides can help you compare areas and typical bands.