EHC vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.30%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-8%).
| Metric | EHC | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.69% | 2.30% |
| Annual dividend | $0.84 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 13% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 2 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | -4.7% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 141% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 63 (C) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $98.45 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | -19% | -8% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $12.1B | $368.3B |
| P/E ratio | 20.3 | 119.4 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.30%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-8% upside
EHC vs MRK — FAQ
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