Dividend Kings are stocks of companies that have raised their dividends consecutively every year for at least 50 years. These types of dividend growth stocks are hotly pursued for their enviable track records of dividend increases, strong fundamentals, and low-risk income streams, which, combined, reduce their volatility compared to other stocks. The long game can also be rewarding for investors piling into Dividend Kings, which are common holdings in buy-and-hold portfolios that utilize dividend reinvestment strategies.

We've built out a full list of Dividend Kings on this page so you can easily compare the top kings across a range of key metrics to understand which stocks may deserve a spot in your portfolio. All stocks included are NYSE and NASDAQ-listed securities.

Dividend Kings yield

Since Dividend Kings operate across a range of sectors and industries, their capital allocation policies differ, resulting in a wide range of dividend yields.

The highest-yielding Dividend Kings offer yields north of 5.00%. Such turbo-charged yields approach the ranges of high-yield dividend stocks, which can pay out yields in the low double digits.

The average yield for all Dividend King stocks is 2.04%, which more closely resembles the likely payout that income investors can pocket when investing in any single constituent of the Dividend Kings list.

How to invest in Dividend King stocks

Direct stock ownership is the most popular way to invest in stocks with a long track record of dividend increases. Here’s a simple rundown to understand which strategy is right for your goals.

Direct stock ownership

Purchasing shares of individual stocks is a strategy best suited for investors with years of experience in the stock market. Successful stock picking also requires the right temperament, as most beginner investors picking stocks eventually end up licking their wounds at some point.

However, there’s value to be captured for investors with the time and proper experience. Individual stock picking offers more control over exposure to specific dividend yield ranges and sectors, but with more risk than what diversified ETFs offer.

Dividend Kings ETFs and mutual funds

Unfortunately, there are currently no ETF or mutual fund options for income investors who focus exclusively on Dividend Kings.

However, there is a range of low-cost dividend ETFs holding baskets of established dividend growth stocks, many of which are Kings themselves. These funds include the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation Index Fund (VIG) and the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD).

These ETFs are ideal for beginner and seasoned investors alike seeking instant diversification and professional management with low fees. But consider that ETFs may not offer the same yield potential or targeted sector exposure as investing in individual stocks.

Dividend Kings vs. Aristocrats

Understanding the nuances can make a big difference when investing in Dividend Kings and Aristocrats. First, let’s define the difference between the two categories.

Dividend Aristocrats are S&P 500-listed stocks that have increased their dividends for at least 25 years, not 50 years, as is the case with Dividend Kings.

The primary reason to invest in Aristocrats over Kings is exposure to companies with more room to grow their dividends and share prices. Unlike Kings, there are also more professionally-managed fund options, such as the ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats (NOBL) ETF and the Vest S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Target Income (KNGLX) mutual fund.

FAQ

Are there Dividend Kings ETFs?

There are no ETFs that invest exclusively in Dividend Kings, though select dividend appreciation ETFs invest in dividend growth stocks, including many Dividend Kings.

Do any dividend kings pay monthly?

All current Dividend Kings pay dividends on a quarterly schedule.