Eight teams from the 1979–80 season (Aberdeen, Celtic, Dundee United, Kilmarnock, Morton, Partick Thistle, Rangers, and St Mirren) plus two clubs promoted from the 1979–80 Scottish First Division (Heart of Midlothian and Airdrieonians).
Aberdeen were the defending champions, having won their first title in 25 years in the previous season.
The title was won by Celtic on 22 April 1981, after defeating Dundee United 3–2 at Tannadice Park, with two matches still to play.
They finished seven points ahead of closest challengers Aberdeen.
At the end of the season, Kilmarnock and Heart of Midlothian were relegated.