CAT vs MLI: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MLI (Mueller Industries, Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MLI offers the higher yield at 1.18%, CAT has the higher dividend-safety score, and MLI trades at the larger discount to fair value (+7%).
| Metric | CAT | MLI |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.74% | 1.18% |
| Annual dividend | $6.52 | $0.70 |
| Payout ratio | 30% | 14% |
| Years of growth | 32 yr | 5 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 7.2% | 38.0% |
| 5-yr total return | 317% | 430% |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | 74 (B) |
| Fair value estimate | $485.27 | $63.30 |
| Upside to fair value | -45% | +7% |
| Frequency | quarterly | monthly |
| Market cap | $398.1B | $13.0B |
| P/E ratio | 43.9 | 15.5 |
Higher yield
MLI
1.18%
Safer dividend
CAT
Grade A
Faster growth
MLI
38.0%
Better value
MLI
+7% upside
CAT vs MLI — FAQ
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