Understanding Aberdeen's Council Tax Bands

Understanding Aberdeen's Council Tax Bands

28 March 2026 · Rent in Aberdeen

Council tax is one of those costs that catches new renters by surprise. Here's a practical guide to how it works in Aberdeen.

How council tax bands work

Every residential property in Scotland is assigned a council tax band from A (lowest) to H (highest), based on its value as of April 1991. Yes, 1991 — the bands haven't been revalued since. This means a granite flat that was worth £30,000 in 1991 might now be worth £200,000 but still sits in Band B.

Aberdeen City Council tax rates (2025/26)

Aberdeen City Council sets its own rates each year. Approximate annual costs:

  • Band A: ~£950/year (£79/month)
  • Band B: ~£1,108/year (£92/month)
  • Band C: ~£1,267/year (£106/month)
  • Band D: ~£1,425/year (£119/month)
  • Band E: ~£1,795/year (£150/month)
  • Band F: ~£2,116/year (£176/month)
  • Band G: ~£2,421/year (£202/month)
  • Band H: ~£2,907/year (£242/month)

Note: these are approximate figures. Check the Aberdeen City Council website for current rates.

Discounts and exemptions

  • Single person discount: if you're the only adult in the property, you get 25% off. This applies automatically — you just need to tell the council.
  • Student exemption: if everyone in the property is a full-time student (University of Aberdeen or RGU), the property is exempt from council tax entirely. If you share with a non-student, they'll need to pay (but may get the single person discount).
  • Council tax reduction: if you're on a low income or receiving benefits, you may qualify for a reduction. Apply through Aberdeen City Council.

Typical bands by area

As a rough guide for Aberdeen:

  • Bands A–B: Torry, Mastrick, parts of Kittybrewster — typically smaller flats and ex-council properties.
  • Bands C–D: West End, Ferryhill, City Centre, Old Aberdeen — the most common band for 1–2 bed granite flats.
  • Bands E–F: Mannofield, parts of Rubislaw, Bridge of Don — larger flats and semi-detached houses.
  • Bands G–H: Rubislaw Den, Cults, Bieldside — detached granite houses and premium addresses.

How to check your band

Search the Scottish Assessors Association website (saa.gov.uk) by postcode or address to find any property's council tax band. If you think your band is wrong, you can appeal — but be aware it could go up as well as down.

Factor council tax into your budget when searching for properties. Our neighbourhood guides can help you compare areas.