UNH vs VRTX: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of Oct 18, 2026, UNH (UnitedHealth Group Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 3 of 4 head-to-head metrics. UNH offers the higher yield at 2.31%, UNH has the higher dividend-safety score.
Key facts: UNH vs VRTX
Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data
- As of Oct 18, 2026, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH) has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.31%, versus 0.00% for Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (VRTX).
- By SmarterDividends' count as of Oct 18, 2026, UNH has raised its dividend for 16 consecutive years and VRTX for 0.
Cite this page
SmarterDividends, "UNH vs VRTX: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Oct 18, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/unh-vs-vrtx
| Metric | UNH | VRTX |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.31% | 0.00% |
| Annual dividend | $9.28 | $0.00 |
| Payout ratio | 58% | 0% |
| Years of growth | 16 yr | 0 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 12.6% | — |
| 5-yr total return | -10% | — |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | — |
| Fair value estimate | $493.81 | — |
| Upside to fair value | +23% | — |
| Frequency | quarterly | — |
| Market cap | $360.3B | $126.6B |
| P/E ratio | 25.8 | 29.1 |
Higher yield
UNH
2.31%
Safer dividend
UNH
Grade A
Faster growth
UNH
12.6%
UNH vs VRTX — FAQ
Is UNH or VRTX a better dividend stock?
On the data, UNH wins more head-to-head categories (3 vs 1). UNH offers the higher yield (2.31%), while UNH has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.
Which has a higher dividend yield, UNH or VRTX?
UNH has the higher forward dividend yield at 2.31%, versus 0.00% for VRTX.
Is UNH or VRTX safer?
Compare each stock's payout ratio, growth streak and cut history on its detail page to judge safety.
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See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.