ABT vs UNH: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, UNH (UnitedHealth Group Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 7 of 8 head-to-head metrics. ABT offers the higher yield at 2.45%, UNH has the higher dividend-safety score, and UNH trades at the larger discount to fair value (+37%).
| Metric | ABT | UNH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.45% | 2.21% |
| Annual dividend | $2.52 | $9.28 |
| Payout ratio | 79% | 67% |
| Years of growth | 12 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 10.4% | 12.6% |
| 5-yr total return | -18% | 1% |
| Dividend safety score | 77 (B) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $86.75 | $575.33 |
| Upside to fair value | -16% | +37% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $179.5B | $382.1B |
| P/E ratio | 33.4 | 31.6 |
Higher yield
ABT
2.45%
Safer dividend
UNH
Grade A
Faster growth
UNH
12.6%
Better value
UNH
+37% upside
ABT vs UNH — FAQ
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