ELV vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, ELV (Elevance Health, Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.31%, ELV has the higher dividend-safety score, and ELV trades at the larger discount to fair value (+43%).
| Metric | ELV | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 1.67% | 2.31% |
| Annual dividend | $6.88 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 30% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 14 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 12.5% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | -6% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $588.95 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | +43% | -8% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $89.1B | $362.4B |
| P/E ratio | 18.2 | 117.5 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.31%
Safer dividend
ELV
Grade A
Faster growth
ELV
12.5%
Better value
ELV
+43% upside
ELV vs MRK — FAQ
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