SmarterDividends

DUK vs SO: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of September 2026, DUK and SO are closely matched. DUK offers the higher yield at 3.61%, DUK has the higher dividend-safety score, and SO trades at the larger discount to fair value (+10%).

MetricDUKSO
Forward yield3.61%3.45%
Annual dividend$4.34$3.04
Payout ratio64%72%
Years of growth21 yr25 yr
5-yr dividend growth2.0%3.0%
5-yr total return23%42%
Dividend safety score92 (A)90 (A)
Fair value estimate$128.37$96.70
Upside to fair value+7%+10%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$93.7B$101.4B
P/E ratio18.121.2

Higher yield

DUK

3.61%

Safer dividend

DUK

Grade A

Faster growth

SO

3.0%

Better value

SO

+10% upside

DUK vs SO — FAQ

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