JNJ vs MRK: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of June 2026, MRK (Merck & Co., Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. MRK offers the higher yield at 2.86%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (+9%).
| Metric | JNJ | MRK |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.23% | 2.86% |
| Annual dividend | $5.36 | $3.40 |
| Payout ratio | 60% | 94% |
| Years of growth | 55 yr | 15 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 5.2% | 6.8% |
| 5-yr total return | 46% | 53% |
| Dividend safety score | 89 (A) | 90 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $213.66 | $129.20 |
| Upside to fair value | -11% | +9% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $579.8B | $294.0B |
| P/E ratio | 27.9 | 33.5 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.86%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.8%
Better value
MRK
+9% upside
JNJ vs MRK — FAQ
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