SmarterDividends

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%).

MetricSTEUNH
Forward yield1.26%2.46%
Annual dividend$2.58$9.28
Payout ratio31%58%
Years of growth20 yr16 yr
5-yr dividend growth8.9%12.6%
5-yr total return-12%-18%
Dividend safety score94 (A)89 (A)
Fair value estimate$179.76$603.89
Upside to fair value-12%+60%
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$20.0B$338.3B
P/E ratio25.124.2

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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