| Competition: | Scottish Division One |
| Season: | 1896–97 |
| Winners: | Heart of Midlothian 2nd title |
| Relegated: | Abercorn |
| Matches: | 90 |
| Total Goals: | 388 |
| League Topscorer: | Willie Taylor (12 goals) |
| Prevseason: | 1895-96 |
| Nextseason: | 1897-98 |
The 1896–97 Scottish Division One season was won by Heart of Midlothian, two points ahead of nearest rival Hibernian.