MRK vs USPH: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of August 2026, MRK (Merck & Company, Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 7 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.52%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | MRK | USPH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.52% | 2.35% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $1.84 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 1071% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 14 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 7.1% |
| 5-yr total return | 81% | -27% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 75 (B) |
| Fair value estimate | $133.20 | $41.33 |
| Upside to fair value | -2% | -49% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $375.5B | $1.2B |
| P/E ratio | 108.7 | 465.9 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.52%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
USPH
7.1%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
MRK vs USPH — FAQ
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