CAH vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, CAH (Cardinal Health, Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.36%, CAH has the higher dividend-safety score, and CAH trades at the larger discount to fair value (+49%).
| Metric | CAH | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 0.88% | 2.36% |
| Annual dividend | $2.06 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 28% | 269% |
| Years of growth | 39 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 1.0% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 374% | 92% |
| Dividend safety score | 99 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $350.54 | $135.77 |
| Upside to fair value | +49% | -6% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $54.6B | $355.1B |
| P/E ratio | 32.5 | 115.1 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.36%
Safer dividend
CAH
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
CAH
+49% upside
CAH vs MRK — FAQ
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