SmarterDividends

ATO vs SO: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of July 2026, ATO (Atmos Energy Corporation) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. SO offers the higher yield at 3.19%, ATO has the higher dividend-safety score, and SO trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).

MetricATOSO
Forward yield2.25%3.19%
Annual dividend$4.00$3.04
Payout ratio46%76%
Years of growth36 yr25 yr
5-yr dividend growth9.0%3.0%
5-yr total return82%45%
Dividend safety score95 (A)90 (A)
Fair value estimate$147.54$93.61
Upside to fair value-17%-2%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$29.6B$106.5B
P/E ratio21.924.4

Higher yield

SO

3.19%

Safer dividend

ATO

Grade A

Faster growth

ATO

9.0%

Better value

SO

-2% upside

ATO vs SO — FAQ

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