CAT vs NSC: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, CAT (Caterpillar Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. NSC offers the higher yield at 1.59%, CAT has the higher dividend-safety score, and NSC trades at the larger discount to fair value (-3%).
| Metric | CAT | NSC |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.74% | 1.59% |
| Annual dividend | $6.52 | $5.40 |
| Payout ratio | 30% | 45% |
| Years of growth | 32 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 7.2% | 7.5% |
| 5-yr total return | 317% | 34% |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | 86 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $485.27 | $329.81 |
| Upside to fair value | -45% | -3% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $398.1B | $75.2B |
| P/E ratio | 43.9 | 28.7 |
Higher yield
NSC
1.59%
Safer dividend
CAT
Grade A
Faster growth
NSC
7.5%
Better value
NSC
-3% upside
CAT vs NSC — FAQ
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