HCA vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.61%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and HCA trades at the larger discount to fair value (+42%).
| Metric | HCA | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.82% | 2.61% |
| Annual dividend | $3.12 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 10% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 5 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 33.5% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 51% | 72% |
| Dividend safety score | 66 (B) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $542.27 | $128.13 |
| Upside to fair value | +42% | -2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $84.8B | $323.7B |
| P/E ratio | 12.8 | 36.9 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
HCA
33.5%
Better value
HCA
+42% upside
HCA vs MRK — FAQ
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