MRK vs UNH: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, UNH (UnitedHealth Group Incorporated) 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 UNH trades at the larger discount to fair value (+37%).
| Metric | MRK | UNH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.61% | 2.21% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $9.28 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 67% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 12.6% |
| 5-yr total return | 72% | 1% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $128.13 | $575.33 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | +37% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $320.6B | $382.8B |
| P/E ratio | 36.8 | 31.6 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.61%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
UNH
12.6%
Better value
UNH
+37% upside
MRK vs UNH — FAQ
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