JNJ vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of July 2026, JNJ and MRK are closely matched. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.58%, JNJ has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-2%).
| Metric | JNJ | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.01% | 2.58% |
| Annual dividend | $5.36 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 61% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 55 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 5.2% | 6.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 52% | 72% |
| Dividend safety score | 93 (A) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $229.97 | $128.13 |
| Upside to fair value | -13% | -2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $639.9B | $322.0B |
| P/E ratio | 30.9 | 37.1 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.58%
Safer dividend
JNJ
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-2% upside
JNJ vs MRK — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.