STE vs UNH: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, STE and UNH are closely matched. UNH offers the higher yield at 2.46%, STE has the higher dividend-safety score, and UNH trades at the larger discount to fair value (+60%).
| Metric | STE | UNH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 1.26% | 2.46% |
| Annual dividend | $2.58 | $9.28 |
| Payout ratio | 31% | 58% |
| Years of growth | 20 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 8.9% | 12.6% |
| 5-yr total return | -12% | -18% |
| Dividend safety score | 94 (A) | 89 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $179.76 | $603.89 |
| Upside to fair value | -12% | +60% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $20.0B | $338.3B |
| P/E ratio | 25.1 | 24.2 |
Higher yield
UNH
2.46%
Safer dividend
STE
Grade A
Faster growth
UNH
12.6%
Better value
UNH
+60% upside
STE vs UNH — FAQ
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