Landscaping Cost in London: April 2026 Price Guide

Landscaping in London runs about $28,500 CAD on average, with most projects landing between $5,000 and $120,000 CAD. We've seen costs climb by 4.2% over the last year. If you're looking at your backyard and thinking it's time for a change, you're not alone. April is exactly when the "Forest City" starts waking up. Homeowners here are shaking off the winter and realizes their outdoor space needs some serious help before summer hits.

Whether you want a simple sod refresh or a massive multi-level stone patio with a built-in kitchen, the price tag depends heavily on how much dirt you need to move and what materials you choose to put back down. Right now, contractors are already filling their summer schedules. If you wait until June to start making calls, you might find yourself at the bottom of a very long waiting list.

How Much Does Landscaping Cost in London?

The wide range in pricing exists because "landscaping" can mean anything from planting a few shrubs to a total property overhaul. On the lower end, around $5,000, you are looking at softscaping. This includes things like fresh mulch, some new perennials, and maybe a small garden bed or two. It's a facelift that adds curb appeal without breaking the bank.

Once you cross into the $28,500 average territory, you're talking about hardscaping. This usually involves a mix of stone pavers, a decent-sized deck, and perhaps some privacy fencing. If you have a larger lot in a neighborhood like Byron or Masonville, your costs can easily climb toward that $120,000 mark. High-end projects at this level often feature custom stonework, sophisticated lighting systems, irrigation, and perhaps a water feature or outdoor fireplace. In London, the cost of labor has remained steady but high, which makes up a significant chunk of these totals.

What Affects the Cost?

Several factors will dictate where your final invoice lands. First, consider the site access. If a contractor can't get a bobcat into your backyard because your side gate is too narrow, they have to move everything by hand. That adds hours of manual labor, and labor is expensive.

Material choices are the next big variable. Natural stone looks beautiful, but it costs significantly more to buy and install than pre-cast concrete pavers. Then there is the London weather factor. Our freeze-thaw cycles are brutal on stone and wood. If you don't pay for proper base preparation (the gravel and sand under your patio), your expensive stones will shift and crack within two seasons. Doing it right the first time costs more upfront but saves you a fortune in repairs later.

Permits also play a role. While you don't usually need a permit for simple gardens, you definitely need them for large decks, retaining walls over a certain height, or any structures like a pool house. Dealing with the City of London's planning department takes time and carries its own set of fees. Finally, timing matters. April is the peak of the "I want it done now" rush. You might pay a premium for a crew to squeeze you in before July.

How London Compares to Other Canadian Cities

London sits in a bit of a middle ground when compared to the rest of the country. Our average of $28,500 CAD is considerably higher than what you'll find in places like Windsor or Oshawa. In Windsor, the average project is only $9,250 CAD, while Oshawa stays lower at $9,831 CAD. This gap is often due to the scale of projects and the local cost of specialized stoneworkers.

If you look further afield, London is actually more expensive than Barrie or St. John's, where the average landscaping project costs $22,500 CAD. However, we are still a bargain compared to Western Canada. In cities like Kelowna or Saskatoon, homeowners are paying an average of $42,500 CAD to get their yards in shape. The 4.2% increase we've seen in London is relatively modest compared to the 8.5% jump in Kelowna, suggesting our local market is staying somewhat more stable despite the rising costs of fuel and raw materials.

How to Save Money on Landscaping

If that $28,500 average makes you wince, there are ways to bring the price down. The best way to save is to do the "soft" work yourself. Let the pros handle the heavy lifting - the grading, the stone setting, and the structural walls. You can handle the planting, mulching, and sodding. Buying your own plants from local nurseries in the London area can save you the markup a contractor might charge.

Another tip is to plan your project in phases. You don't have to do the patio, the fence, and the lighting all at once. Start with a solid master plan, then execute one part each summer. This helps with cash flow and gives you time to see how you actually use the space before committing to the next expensive feature. Also, consider "off-season" planning. While you won't get much done in January, booking your contractor in late autumn for the following spring can sometimes land you a better rate before their calendar fills up.

Is 2026 a Good Time for Landscaping in London?

With a 4.2% year-over-year increase, prices aren't dropping anytime soon. However, the London market is currently more predictable than it was a few years ago. Supply chains for things like pressure-treated wood and patio stones have smoothed out, meaning you're less likely to deal with months of delays waiting for a specific color of brick.

If you have the budget, starting now is a smart move. Investing in your outdoor space is one of the most reliable ways to increase property value in London's competitive housing market. A well-landscaped yard is often the deciding factor for buyers looking in established neighborhoods. You should start by using a landscaping cost calculator to get a better sense of your specific needs. Getting a few quotes early this month will give you the best chance of enjoying your new yard before the first frost of autumn.

FAQ

How long does landscaping take in London?

A standard project usually takes between one and three weeks. A simple sod and garden update might only take two days, but a full backyard renovation with a patio and retaining walls requires significant excavation and base prep. Weather is the biggest wild card - a rainy London spring can easily push a two-week job into a month.

Do I need a permit for landscaping in London?

You generally don't need a permit for plants, small garden walls, or patios at grade. However, you will likely need one for decks higher than 24 inches, large sheds, or retaining walls over one meter. It is always best to check the latest bylaws on the city website before you start digging to avoid fines.

What are the most popular landscaping trends in London right now?

Low-maintenance "living" spaces are huge in 2026. People are moving away from massive high-maintenance lawns and toward large stone patios with native Ontario plantings that don't require daily watering. Pollinator gardens and drought-resistant grasses are also becoming the standard for London homeowners who want a beautiful yard without the constant chores.

Check the latest landscaping costs for London and other cities on LookupCost.com.