JNJ vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, JNJ and MRK are closely matched. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.67%, JNJ has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (+0%).
| Metric | JNJ | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.12% | 2.67% |
| Annual dividend | $5.36 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 61% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 55 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 5.2% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 46% | 67% |
| Dividend safety score | 93 (A) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $229.37 | $128.06 |
| Upside to fair value | -9% | +0% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $599.0B | $307.2B |
| P/E ratio | 29.3 | 36.0 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.67%
Safer dividend
JNJ
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
+0% upside
JNJ vs MRK — FAQ
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