MRK vs NHC: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 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 2.23%, MRK has the higher dividend-safety score, and MRK trades at the larger discount to fair value (-12%).
| Metric | MRK | NHC |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.23% | 1.23% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $2.68 |
| Payout ratio | 269% | 29% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 21 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.7% | 4.0% |
| 5-yr total return | 100% | 212% |
| Dividend safety score | 88 (A) | 86 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $133.00 | $171.85 |
| Upside to fair value | -12% | -21% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $370.9B | $3.4B |
| P/E ratio | 120.3 | 24.6 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.23%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
MRK
6.7%
Better value
MRK
-12% upside
MRK vs NHC — FAQ
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