Elections to Liverpool City Council were held on Monday 2 November 1885. One third of the council seats were up for election, the term of office of each councillor being three years.
After the elections, the composition of the council was:
* - Retiring Councillor seeking re-election
Caused by the resignation of Councillor Joseph Simpson (Liberal, Scotland, elected 1 November 1883), reported to the Council on 2 December 1885.
Caused by the death of Councillor Thomas Patrick Holden (Party?, Lime Street, elected 1 November 1883) on 17 May 1886.
Alderman Thomas Rigby died on 4 June 1886. In his place Councillor John Hughes (Conservative, North Toxteth, elected 1st November 1883) was elected as an alderman by the Council (Councillors and Aldermen) on 7 July 1886