LIN vs MLM: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Nov 5, 2026, LIN (Linde plc) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 8 head-to-head metrics. LIN offers the higher yield at 1.22%, MLM has the higher dividend-safety score, and LIN looks like the better value (its fair-value estimate is 47% below its share price).
Key facts: LIN vs MLM
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Nov 5, 2026, Linde plc (LIN) has the higher forward dividend yield at 1.22%, versus 0.60% for Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. (MLM).
- As of Nov 5, 2026, SmarterDividends grades LIN's dividend safety A (94/100) and MLM's A (97/100).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Nov 5, 2026, LIN has raised its dividend for 32 consecutive years and MLM for 10.
- As of Nov 5, 2026, LIN pays out 42% of its earnings as dividends and MLM pays out 25%.
- As of Nov 5, 2026, LIN's fair-value estimate is 47% below its share price and MLM's fair-value estimate is 50% below its share price, so LIN looks like the better value of the two on SmarterDividends' blended model.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "LIN vs MLM: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Nov 5, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/lin-vs-mlm
| Metric | LIN | MLM |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 1.22% | 0.60% |
| Annual dividend | $6.40 | $3.36 |
| Payout ratio | 42% | 25% |
| Years of growth | 32 yr | 10 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 9.3% | 7.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 62% | 34% |
| Dividend safety score | 94 (A) | 97 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $278.01 | $264.76 |
| Upside to fair value | -47% | -50% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $241.0B | $37.7B |
| P/E ratio | 34.9 | 39.6 |
Higher yield
LIN
1.22%
Safer dividend
MLM
Grade A
Faster growth
LIN
9.3%
Better value
LIN
-47% upside
LIN vs MLM — FAQ
Is LIN or MLM a better dividend stock?
On the data, LIN wins more head-to-head categories (6 vs 2). LIN offers the higher yield (1.22%), while MLM has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, LIN or MLM?
LIN has the higher forward dividend yield at 1.22%, versus 0.60% for MLM.
Is LIN or MLM safer?
MLM has the higher dividend-safety score (97/100 vs 94/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.
Is LIN or MLM better value right now?
As of Nov 5, 2026, LIN looks like the better value: its fair-value estimate is 47% below its share price (overvalued). For MLM, its fair-value estimate is 50% below its share price.
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See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.