Chicago is not just known for its rich history, iconic architecture, and deep-dish pizza — it’s also home to some of the best hospitals in the United States. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or seeking top medical treatment, the city offers world-class healthcare services with advanced technology, expert physicians, and cutting-edge research.
From elite academic institutions to high-performing community hospitals, here’s a detailed guide to the Top 10 Best Hospitals in Chicago.
1. Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Location: Streeterville, Downtown Chicago
Affiliation: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Founded: 1972 (Merger of Passavant and Wesley Hospitals)
Consistently ranked the #1 hospital in Illinois and among the top in the nation, Northwestern Memorial Hospital is a flagship academic medical center known for clinical excellence and innovative research.
Key Specialties:
Cardiology & Heart Surgery
Cancer Care (Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center)
Neurology & Neurosurgery
Organ Transplants
Patients benefit from highly specialized teams and one of the most technologically advanced medical campuses in the Midwest.
2. Rush University Medical Center
Location: Near West Side, Chicago
Affiliation: Rush University
Founded: 1837
One of Chicago’s oldest hospitals, Rush University Medical Center combines clinical expertise with academic leadership. It’s well-known for its patient-first design and cutting-edge approach to complex diseases.
Key Specialties:
Orthopedics (Ranked nationally)
Neurology & Neurosurgery
Cancer Care
Geriatrics
The hospital’s “butterfly-shaped” tower is designed to improve infection control and patient outcomes.
3. University of Chicago Medical Center (UChicago Medicine)
Location: Hyde Park, South Side
Affiliation: University of Chicago
Founded: 1927
Known for groundbreaking research and Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, UChicago Medicine is one of the most respected institutions in the world.
Key Specialties:
Cancer Treatment (UChicago Comprehensive Cancer Center)
Gastroenterology
Pediatrics
Endocrinology
It’s also a top choice for patients seeking complex surgeries and advanced treatments unavailable elsewhere.
4. Advocate Christ Medical Center
Location: Oak Lawn (suburban Chicago)
Affiliation: Advocate Health
Founded: 1960
Advocate Christ Medical Center is a top-rated teaching hospital known for trauma care, heart procedures, and surgical excellence.
Key Specialties:
Trauma & Emergency Medicine (Level I Trauma Center)
Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery
Stroke & Neurology
Maternity & Women’s Health
It also houses the Advocate Children’s Hospital, making it ideal for family care.
5. Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital
Location: Winfield, Western Suburbs
Affiliation: Northwestern Medicine
Founded: 1964
Though technically outside city limits, Central DuPage Hospital ranks among the best hospitals in the Chicago metro area for general and surgical care.
Key Specialties:
Orthopedics
Cancer Care
Heart & Vascular Services
Pediatric Subspecialties
It’s known for patient satisfaction, clean facilities, and high-performing surgical units.
6. Loyola University Medical Center
Location: Maywood, West Suburbs of Chicago
Affiliation: Loyola University Chicago
Founded: 1969
A faith-based academic medical center, Loyola combines compassionate care with advanced medical training and research.
Key Specialties:
Organ Transplants (especially kidney and liver)
Cancer
Cardiac & Thoracic Surgery
Burn Center
It also operates a nationally ranked Pediatric ICU and is known for faith-integrated healing.
7. Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
Location: Park Ridge, Northwest Suburbs
Affiliation: Advocate Health
Founded: 1897
A Magnet-recognized hospital, Lutheran General excels in a wide range of specialties and offers comprehensive care in a community setting.
Key Specialties:
Neonatology
Gastroenterology
Pulmonary & Critical Care
Diabetes & Endocrinology
The hospital is especially appreciated for its multilingual staff and patient-centered environment.
8. NorthShore University HealthSystem – Evanston Hospital
Location: Evanston, North Shore of Chicago
Affiliation: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Founded: 1891
Part of the NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston Hospital offers high-quality care with a strong focus on preventive medicine and advanced diagnostics.
Key Specialties:
Neurology
Stroke Care
Gastrointestinal Surgery
Obstetrics
NorthShore’s integrated EMR system makes it easier for patients to access seamless care across facilities.
9. Amita Health Saint Joseph Hospital
Location: Lakeview, Chicago
Affiliation: Part of Ascension (formerly Amita Health)
Founded: 1868
This community-based hospital offers a warm, neighborhood-centered approach while still maintaining excellent ratings in multiple specialties.
Key Specialties:
Cardiology
Orthopedics
General Surgery
Bariatric Weight-Loss Surgery
It also offers LGBTQ+ inclusive care and holistic mental health support.
10. Jesse Brown VA Medical Center
Location: Near West Side, Chicago
Affiliation: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Founded: 1953
Dedicated to serving U.S. military veterans, Jesse Brown VA Medical Center provides outstanding care tailored to veterans’ needs.
Key Services:
PTSD & Mental Health Programs
Spinal Cord Injury
Rehabilitation Services
Primary Care & Geriatrics
Though it’s not open to the public, its quality and patient satisfaction ratings make it a top healthcare institution in the region.
Conclusion
Chicago’s healthcare system is a powerful blend of academic excellence, innovative treatments, and community-focused care. Whether you’re in need of a world-class transplant center, pediatric specialty hospital, or a trusted local emergency department, this city has a medical center that can provide the right care at the right time.