SmarterDividends

ETR vs SO: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of September 2026, SO (The Southern Company) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. SO offers the higher yield at 3.55%, SO has the higher dividend-safety score, and SO trades at the larger discount to fair value (+13%).

MetricETRSO
Forward yield2.51%3.55%
Annual dividend$2.56$3.04
Payout ratio64%72%
Years of growth11 yr25 yr
5-yr dividend growth5.5%3.0%
5-yr total return98%37%
Dividend safety score89 (A)90 (A)
Fair value estimate$105.93$96.70
Upside to fair value+4%+13%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$48.7B$98.4B
P/E ratio26.120.6

Higher yield

SO

3.55%

Safer dividend

SO

Grade A

Faster growth

ETR

5.5%

Better value

SO

+13% upside

ETR vs SO — FAQ

See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.