LLY vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, LLY (Eli Lilly and Company) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.61%, LLY has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | LLY | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.57% | 2.61% |
| Annual dividend | $6.92 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 22% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 11 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 15.2% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 363% | 72% |
| Dividend safety score | 94 (A) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $992.05 | $128.13 |
| Upside to fair value | -17% | -2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $1.0T | $320.6B |
| P/E ratio | 42.9 | 36.8 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
LLY
Grade A
Faster growth
LLY
15.2%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
LLY vs MRK — FAQ
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