MRK vs UNH: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of June 2026, UNH (UnitedHealth Group Incorporated) 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 UNH trades at the larger discount to fair value (+45%).
| Metric | MRK | UNH |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.86% | 2.27% |
| Annual dividend | $3.40 | $9.28 |
| Payout ratio | 94% | 67% |
| Years of growth | 15 yr | 16 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 6.8% | 12.1% |
| 5-yr total return | 53% | 2% |
| Dividend safety score | 90 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $129.20 | $590.98 |
| Upside to fair value | +9% | +45% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $294.0B | $371.0B |
| P/E ratio | 33.5 | 30.8 |
Higher yield
MRK
2.86%
Safer dividend
MRK
Grade A
Faster growth
UNH
12.1%
Better value
UNH
+45% upside
MRK vs UNH — FAQ
Related comparisons
See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.