Winter in London, Ontario: what to expect

Last reviewed October 30, 2026

Ask a Londoner about moving from Toronto, and sooner or later the conversation turns to snow. The short version: London winters are similar to Toronto's in temperature, but snowier, and occasionally much snowier for a day or two at a time. It's very manageable once you know what to expect, and it should influence a few of your housing decisions.

Does London get more snow than Toronto?

Generally, yes. London sits inland from Lake Huron, and when cold air blows across the open lake in early and mid-winter, it picks up moisture and can drop it as lake-effect snow in narrow, intense bands. Communities east and southeast of Lake Huron, London included, can get heavy, localized snowfalls that Toronto doesn't see. Toronto is partly sheltered from those systems, and Lake Ontario moderates its climate.

Practically, that means:

• Some winters have several "big shovel" days, and occasionally a snow squall can drop a lot of snow in hours.
• Snow can vary a lot across short distances. One side of the city can get far more than the other.
• Highway 401 and 402 can see sudden whiteouts in squalls, and the stretch between London and Woodstock is known for this. Check conditions before driving to the GTA in winter.

For historical averages, Environment and Climate Change Canada publishes climate normals for London. Use those rather than anecdotes if you want to compare numbers.

The rest of the year

London's other seasons are a big part of its appeal:

• Spring arrives gradually from late March, and the river paths come alive by May.
• Summer is warm and humid, similar to Toronto, with beach days at Lake Huron and Lake Erie within an hour or so.
• Fall is a highlight. Mature tree canopies in neighbourhoods like Old North, Byron and Wortley Village make October spectacular.

Choosing a home with winter in mind

This is where winter actually affects your real estate decisions:

• Driveway length and slope. A long or steep driveway is a lot more work after a big snowfall. Many Londoners pay for a seasonal snow-removal contract, so ask what it typically costs for the home you're considering.
• Garage. Not scraping a car every morning is a quality-of-life upgrade people quickly come to value.
• Corner lots mean more sidewalk to clear. Check your responsibilities under City by-laws.
• Roof and eavestroughs. Ask your inspector about ice-damming risk, attic insulation and ventilation, especially in older homes.
• Furnace age and efficiency. A newer, efficient furnace makes a real difference to winter gas bills. Ask for the age, and whether it's owned or rented.
• Windows and insulation. Many London homes date from the 1950s–80s. Upgraded windows and attic insulation are worth noting when you compare listings.
• Sump pump and grading. Spring melt tests drainage. Look for signs of past water in basements.

How the city handles snow

The City of London ploughs main roads and bus routes first, then residential streets, and clears many sidewalks with small plows after significant snowfalls. During declared snow events, parking restrictions can apply on some streets. Check the City's website for current rules on overnight on-street parking, which is restricted in parts of London year-round. Newcomers who are used to street parking in Toronto should ask about this before buying a home without enough driveway space.

Tips for your first London winter

• Put winter tires on before the first snow. Some Ontario insurers offer a discount for them.
• Keep an emergency kit in the car (blanket, scraper, small shovel, booster cables, snacks) for 401 trips.
• Buy a good shovel and a bag of de-icer before the first storm, because stores sell out.
• Decide early whether you want a snow-removal service, and book it in the fall.
• Get out and enjoy it: skating at Victoria Park, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on local trails, and tobogganing in city parks.