JNJ vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, JNJ and MRK are closely matched. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.36%, JNJ has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-6%).
| Metric | JNJ | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.02% | 2.36% |
| Annual dividend | $5.36 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 61% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 55 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 5.2% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 64% | 92% |
| Dividend safety score | 93 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $237.49 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | -11% | -6% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $640.0B | $355.1B |
| P/E ratio | 30.8 | 115.1 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.36%
Safer dividend
JNJ
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-6% upside
JNJ vs MRK — FAQ
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