Which CSS property sets the spacing between lines of text?

The CSS property that sets the spacing between lines of text is `line-height`.

CSS uses `line-height` to determine the height of a line box, which controls how closely successive lines of text appear. It can be written as a unitless number, a length such as `24px`, a percentage, or the keyword `normal`. A unitless value such as `1.5` scales with the element’s font size and usually behaves more predictably when styles are inherited.

Common mix-ups involve `letter-spacing`, `word-spacing`, and `text-indent`. `letter-spacing` changes the gaps between individual characters, while `word-spacing` changes gaps between words. `text-indent` moves the first line of a block, often to create a paragraph indent; it does not alter the distance between lines.

The term “leading” comes from traditional typesetting, where strips of lead were placed between lines of metal type. CSS brings that typographic idea into digital layout. Designers must balance readability and compactness: very tight line-height can make paragraphs difficult to follow, while excessive spacing can break visual cohesion. Accessibility guidance commonly recommends at least 1.5 for body text.