Short answer
A published Ontario price guide (HomeStars, updated August 2026, based on Ottawa-area contractors) puts concrete driveways at roughly $2,500 to $7,000 per project. It is not specific to London and is not a quote. Size, removal of the old surface, base work, finish and access move the number most.
Last updated October 2, 2026
Ontario concrete price ranges
We have not found a London-specific published price list for concrete, so the figures below come from one Ontario price guide and should be treated as ESTIMATE ranges only. Local prices vary with the contractor, the season and demand.
| Work | Published Ontario range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete driveway | $2,500 to $7,000 per project | Whole-project range; depends heavily on size. |
| Patio | $10 to $30 per sq ft | Wide spread because of finish and shape. |
| Stamped concrete | $12 to $30 per sq ft | Pattern and colour drive cost. |
| Sidewalk | $7 to $17 per sq ft | Small areas cost more per sq ft. |
| Concrete slab | $3.80 to $5 per sq ft | Basic slab on prepared base. |
| Foundation-related work | $5 to $14 per sq ft | A different trade; included for context only. |
| Demolition and removal | $3 to $8 per sq ft | Added if an old surface must come out. |
| Site preparation and grading | $0.40 to $2 per sq ft | Excavation and base prep. |
| Reinforcement | $50 to $360 | Depends on the area and type. |
| Finishing treatments | $1 to $10 per sq ft | Textures, colour and sealers. |
| Permits | $50 to $300 | Where required. |
| Contractor hourly rate | $80 to $130 per hour | Some contractors quote by the hour. |
What moves a driveway quote up or down
- Square footage. The largest single driver. Measure length times width before you collect quotes.
- Old surface removal. Breaking out and hauling away asphalt or concrete adds labour and disposal.
- Base depth and drainage. Soft or wet ground may need more stone, regrading or a drain.
- Slab thickness and reinforcement. Heavier vehicles need thicker concrete and more steel.
- Finish. Exposed aggregate and stamped finishes cost more than a broom finish. See finishes compared.
- Access. Limited access, long concrete pump distances or the need to wheel concrete in adds labour.
- Season and demand. Peak summer demand can mean higher prices and longer waits.
- Permits and approvals. Widening or curb work may add fees and time. See the permit guide.
A worked example using the published figures
The following is illustrative only. It applies the published per-square-foot ranges to a 500 square foot driveway, covering just three line items. It is not a quote.
| Line item (500 sq ft) | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Removal of old surface at $3 to $8 per sq ft | $1,500 | $4,000 |
| Site preparation at $0.40 to $2 per sq ft | $200 | $1,000 |
| Concrete slab at $3.80 to $5 per sq ft | $1,900 | $2,500 |
| Subtotal of these three items | $3,600 | $7,500 |
That subtotal already spans most of the whole-project range in the same guide, before reinforcement, finishing and permits. The point is not the total. It is that quotes for the same driveway can legitimately differ by thousands of dollars, which is why a written, itemised quote matters.
How to compare quotes
- Ask every contractor to quote the same scope: same area, removal, base depth, thickness, finish and sealer.
- Make sure each quote states the concrete strength and that the mix is air-entrained for exterior exposure.
- Check what is excluded: permits, drainage, restoration of lawn, disposal or sealing.
- Compare payment terms. Be cautious of large deposits.
- Ask for proof of liability insurance and a current WSIB clearance certificate.
- Compare warranties in writing, including what voids them.
- Do not choose on price alone: the cheapest quote often leaves out base work or uses thinner concrete.
Red flags in quotes
- A price with no written scope or line items.
- No mention of base preparation or drainage.
- Pressure to pay a large deposit or pay in cash.
- Claims that no permit is needed for a widening without anything in writing.
- No proof of insurance or WSIB clearance.
- A promise that the concrete "will never crack". All concrete can crack.
For a view of what a good driveway build includes, see concrete driveways.
Ways to manage cost without cutting corners
- Choose a broom finish and add decoration only on borders or entries.
- Do not cut base depth or drainage to save money.
- Bundle a driveway, walkway and patio into one visit if you are planning all three.
- Book outside the busiest weeks if your schedule allows.
- Maintain the sealer to extend the life of the surface.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a concrete driveway cost in London, Ontario?
There is no single London price. A published Ontario guide puts driveways at about $2,500 to $7,000 per project. Get written quotes for your exact scope.
Is concrete cheaper than asphalt?
Concrete usually costs more upfront, but it can last longer with less maintenance if built properly. Compare lifetime cost, not just the quote.
Why are quotes so different?
Scope differences such as removal, base depth, thickness and finish, along with contractor overhead and demand, explain most of the spread.
Should I pay a deposit?
A reasonable deposit is common, but be cautious of large payments upfront. Agree on a payment schedule in writing.
Does the price include sealing?
Only if it is listed. Ask for sealing to be itemised and ask when it should be renewed.
Do I need a permit?
For replacing in the same footprint, often not, but widening and curb changes in London require City approval. See the widening page.