Canada’s healthcare system is celebrated globally for its universal access and high standards of patient care. At the heart of this system are world-class hospitals that not only treat patients but also lead in research, innovation, and medical education.
According to the 2025 World’s Best Hospitals rankings by Newsweek and Statista, five Canadian hospitals stand out for their outstanding quality, international reputation, and exceptional service. These institutions set the benchmark for healthcare in the country.
The top five hospitals in Canada for 2025 are:
- Toronto General Hospital – University Health Network (Toronto)
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (Toronto)
- Mount Sinai Hospital (Toronto)
- North York General Hospital (Toronto)
- Montreal General Hospital – McGill University Health Centre (Montreal)
Let’s explore each hospital in detail to understand why they are ranked among the best.
1. Toronto General Hospital – University Health Network (UHN)
Toronto General Hospital is Canada’s top hospital and ranks third in the world, making it one of the most respected medical institutions globally. It is part of the University Health Network (UHN), which is closely affiliated with the University of Toronto.
Why It’s Number One
Toronto General is widely recognized for its groundbreaking achievements in organ transplantation. It is the largest transplant center in North America, performing life-saving procedures for the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, kidneys, and even the small intestine.
Some of the world’s firsts have taken place here:
- The first single-lung transplant (1983)
- The first double-lung transplant (1986)
- The first valve-sparing aortic root replacement (1992)
- A triple-organ transplant involving the lungs, liver, and pancreas (2015)
In addition to its transplant program, the hospital houses the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, a leader in cardiac care and research. Patients from across Canada and beyond come here for complex procedures and advanced treatments.
Toronto General is not only a hospital but also a research hub, driving medical innovation and training the next generation of healthcare professionals. Its consistent top ranking reflects a blend of cutting-edge science and compassionate care.
2. Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Sunnybrook holds the second spot in Canada and is among the top 25 hospitals worldwide. It is one of the largest hospitals in the country and plays a vital role in trauma care and specialized medicine.
Areas of Excellence
- Level I Trauma Center: Sunnybrook is Canada’s largest trauma center and was the first hospital outside the U.S. to receive official accreditation from the American College of Surgeons.
- Cancer Care: It has a comprehensive cancer treatment and research program.
- High-Risk Pregnancy and Neonatal Care: Sunnybrook is a leader in maternal and newborn care, especially for complex, high-risk cases.
- Neurological Innovation: In 2015, Sunnybrook became the first hospital in the world to non-invasively open the blood-brain barrier in a living patient, a breakthrough in treating brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s and cancer.
For seven consecutive years, Sunnybrook has maintained its position as the second-ranked hospital in Canada. Its reputation is built on a combination of skilled professionals, advanced technology, and a strong commitment to research.
3. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital ranks third in Canada and consistently appears among the top 35 hospitals in the world. With over a century of service, it is well-known for its patient-centered approach and high-quality care.
Key Strengths
- Maternal and Infant Care: Mount Sinai is renowned for its obstetrics and neonatal care, providing some of the best services for mothers and babies in the country.
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Care: It is a leader in the treatment and research of diabetes and hormonal disorders.
- Neurology and Cancer Services: The hospital provides specialized care for neurological disorders and cancer treatment.
What makes Mount Sinai particularly special is its Magnet® designation, a prestigious recognition for nursing excellence. It is the only hospital in Canada to have received this award. It has also achieved Exemplary Standing from Accreditation Canada, a testament to its commitment to quality and safety.
Mount Sinai combines a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art facilities, making it a trusted name for patients across Canada.
4. North York General Hospital
North York General is ranked fourth nationally and is known for delivering comprehensive, community-focused care. While it may not be as globally famous as Toronto General or Sunnybrook, it has carved a niche for itself as a top-performing community academic hospital.
Why It Stands Out
- Offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, pediatrics, and cancer treatment.
- For seven years in a row, it has been named Canada’s number one community academic hospital by Newsweek.
- It blends the benefits of a community hospital—like personalized attention—with the expertise of a teaching and research institution.
North York General is particularly praised for its patient satisfaction and efficient service delivery. It shows that excellence isn’t limited to massive institutions; smaller hospitals can also make a big impact.
5. Montreal General Hospital – McGill University Health Centre (MUHC)
The fifth hospital on the list, Montreal General Hospital, is part of the McGill University Health Centre. Located in Montreal, Quebec, it brings together world-class care with academic research.
Specialties and Strengths
- Trauma and Emergency Care: It plays a key role in the region’s trauma network.
- Neurology and Neurosurgery: The hospital is highly respected for its neurological care and advanced surgical procedures.
- Oncology: Provides comprehensive cancer services and participates in groundbreaking research.
Being affiliated with McGill University gives the hospital access to top researchers and students, creating an environment where innovation thrives. It serves as a teaching hospital and a center of excellence for complex cases.