Local government across Scotland was reorganised in 1975 under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, which replaced the counties and burghs with a two-tier structure of upper-tier regions and lower-tier districts.

The leaders since then have been:[4] Following the 2022 election and subsequent changes up to November 2024, the composition of the council was:[7][8] One of the independent councillors describes themselves as a "non-aligned Conservative".

The older part of the building facing High Street was completed in 1952 adjoining Elgin Sheriff Court for the former joint Moray and Nairn County Council.

[11] Large extensions were later added to the south of the building, facing Greyfriars Street.

In 2012 the council opened an additional annexe nearby at 2–10 High Street in a converted supermarket.