New York is home to some of the most advanced cancer treatment facilities in the United States. Patients from across the country — and the world — travel to New York for access to cutting-edge research, world-class oncologists, and innovative therapies. The state is also home to multiple NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers, a status awarded by the National Cancer Institute to hospitals with the highest level of research and patient care.
Below are the top cancer hospitals in New York that lead in innovation, treatment success rates, and patient support.
1. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) – New York City
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National Ranking: #2 in the U.S. for cancer care (U.S. News & World Report 2024–2025).
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Specialties: Precision oncology, rare cancers, pediatric oncology, bone marrow transplants.
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Why It’s the Best in New York:
MSKCC is one of the oldest and most respected cancer centers in the world. It leads in genetic cancer research, immunotherapy, and early-phase clinical trials. MSK treats over 400 different cancer subtypes, making it a go-to destination for complex cases. -
Unique Features:
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Precision medicine program tailored to each patient’s genetic profile.
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Sloan Kettering Institute for basic and translational research.
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Extensive survivorship care programs.
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2. NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center – Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center
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NCI Designation: Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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Specialties: Breast, lung, prostate, gastrointestinal cancers; immunotherapy research.
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Why It Stands Out:
This center is affiliated with Columbia University and combines world-class academic research with advanced clinical care. It’s known for developing targeted therapies and personalized treatment approaches. -
Notable Programs:
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Integrative oncology, including nutrition and exercise programs.
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Robust clinical trial network.
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3. NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine – Meyer Cancer Center
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Specialties: Blood cancers, solid tumors, stem cell transplants, precision oncology.
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Strengths:
The Meyer Cancer Center emphasizes molecular profiling and novel drug development. It has strong collaborations with biotechnology companies to bring new therapies to patients faster. -
Unique Approach:
Combines cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship into a seamless patient experience.
4. NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center
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NCI Designation: Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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Specialties: Melanoma, head & neck cancers, breast cancer, hematologic malignancies.
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Why It’s Highly Rated:
NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center is known for high patient satisfaction, advanced radiation oncology, and its focus on minimally invasive surgical techniques. -
Research Focus:
Immuno-oncology, cancer genetics, and early detection.
5. Mount Sinai Tisch Cancer Institute
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NCI Designation: Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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Specialties: Geriatric oncology, multiple myeloma, breast cancer, prostate cancer.
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Strengths:
Mount Sinai integrates precision medicine, palliative care, and patient-centered treatment. It is also a leader in cancer prevention research and community outreach.
6. Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center – Buffalo, NY
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NCI Designation: Comprehensive Cancer Center.
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Founded: 1898 (one of the first dedicated cancer centers in the world).
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Specialties: Immunotherapy, pediatric oncology, rare cancers.
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Why It’s Unique:
Roswell Park offers both inpatient and outpatient services, and is a leader in developing FDA-approved cancer drugs.
Key Reasons to Choose a New York Cancer Center
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World-Class Specialists – Many oncologists here are global leaders in their fields.
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Access to Clinical Trials – New York centers run hundreds of trials annually.
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State-of-the-Art Facilities – Advanced radiation therapy, robotic surgery, and genomic testing.
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Comprehensive Care – From diagnosis to survivorship, including mental health and nutrition support.
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Global Patient Access – Many centers have dedicated programs for international patients.
Conclusion
Whether you choose Memorial Sloan Kettering in Manhattan, Columbia’s Herbert Irving Cancer Center, or Roswell Park in Buffalo, New York offers some of the most advanced cancer care in the world. These institutions combine research, innovation, and compassionate care — giving patients the best possible chance in their fight against cancer.