Top 7 Highest Dividend Stocks in the S&P 500 for 2024

Meticulously curated list of the S&P 500's top dividend-paying stocks for 2024, offering investors a potential path to sustainable income and long-term growth.

Automatic Data Processing (ADP), Broadcom (AVGO), CSX (CSX), L3Harris Technologies (LHX), Parker-Hannafin (PH), Starbucks (SBUX), and UnitedHealth Group (UNH) are among the top dividend-paying stocks in the S&P 500 for 2024. These companies boast impressive track records, financial stability, and strong growth potential. Highlights include ADP’s history of double-digit dividend increases, Broadcom’s path to becoming a Dividend Aristocrat, and UNH’s reasonable valuation coupled with consistent earnings growth. Investors seeking a combination of income and long-term capital appreciation would do well to explore these reliable dividend-paying powerhouses further.

1. Automatic Data Processing (ADP)

Automatic Data Processing (ADP) stands out as a dividend-paying powerhouse within the S&P 500, boasting a history of double-digit increases and an impressive average annual growth rate of 12.36% over the past 5 years. This consistent dividend growth trajectory reflects ADP’s unwavering commitment to rewarding its shareholders.

With a payout ratio of nearly 60%, the company maintains a balanced approach, distributing a significant portion of its earnings while retaining capital for future growth opportunities.

Investors can further benefit from ADP’s forward dividend yield of 2.3%, which offers a competitive return compared to other dividend-paying stocks in the S&P 500.

Looking ahead, the company’s forecasted earnings growth of 9-10% provides a solid foundation to sustain and potentially increase its dividend payments in the future. This combination of strong dividend growth, a well-managed payout ratio, and a compelling forward yield makes ADP an attractive option for income-oriented investors seeking exposure to the S&P 500.

2. Broadcom (AVGO)

Broadcom’s diversified semiconductor portfolio and robust financial performance make it a compelling dividend stock. The company’s average annual dividend growth rate of 19.25% over the past 5 years, combined with its forward dividend yield of 1.6%, suggest that Broadcom is well-positioned to potentially become a Dividend Aristocrat in the future.

Investors seeking income may find Broadcom’s consistent dividend growth and financial stability to be attractive characteristics.

Diversified Semiconductor Portfolio

Leveraging its diversified semiconductor portfolio, Broadcom (AVGO) has established a strong position in the connectivity, broadband, and infrastructure markets. The company’s focus on these key areas has allowed it to maintain a steady stream of revenue and drive consistent dividend growth.

With an average annual dividend growth of 19.25% over the past 5 years, Broadcom has demonstrated a strong commitment to rewarding its shareholders.

Broadcom’s forward dividend yield of 1.6% makes it an attractive option for income-seeking investors in the tech sector. The company’s earnings growth trends further support its potential to continue raising dividends, positioning it as a promising dividend stock within the semiconductor industry.

As Broadcom continues to enhance its diversified semiconductor portfolio, it is well on its way to potentially becoming a future Dividend Aristocrat, solidifying its status as a reliable and shareholder-friendly investment.

Robust Financial Performance

Consistently, Broadcom’s (AVGO) robust financial performance has reinforced its position as an attractive investment option for income-seeking investors within the semiconductor industry. With an impressive average annual dividend growth rate of 19.25% over the past five years, the company has showcased its commitment to rewarding shareholders through consistent dividend increases.

This consistent dividend growth, coupled with a forward dividend yield of 1.6%, positions Broadcom as a potential future Dividend Aristocrat, a coveted status among income-oriented investors.

Furthermore, Broadcom’s strong earnings growth serves as a solid foundation for the company to continue increasing its dividend payouts in the years ahead. This financial stability and the potential for future dividend increases make Broadcom a promising investment choice for investors seeking both capital appreciation and reliable income streams.

As the semiconductor industry continues to evolve, Broadcom’s robust financial performance and shareholder-friendly policies make it a compelling option for those seeking to build a diversified portfolio with a focus on dividend growth.

3. CSX (CSX)

CSX, the major American freight railroad, has demonstrated a strong commitment to shareholder returns through its consistent dividend growth and share repurchase initiatives. Over the past five years, the company has maintained an impressive average annual dividend growth rate of 8.45%, showcasing its ability to consistently reward its shareholders.

Additionally, CSX boasts an enviable track record of 19 consecutive years of dividend growth, a validation of the company’s financial stability and its dedication to providing a reliable income stream for investors.

In a recent move, CSX increased its quarterly dividend by a significant 9.1%, further solidifying its position as a dividend growth stock to watch. With a low payout ratio, the company has ample room for potential future dividend increases, making it an attractive option for income-oriented investors seeking exposure to the transportation and logistics sector.

Alongside its dividend program, CSX also engages in stock buybacks, further enhancing shareholder value and demonstrating its commitment to delivering sustained returns to its stakeholders.

4. L3Harris Technologies (LHX)

L3Harris Technologies (LHX) boasts an impressive track record of 22 consecutive years of dividend increases, showcasing its commitment to rewarding shareholders over the long term. The company’s forward dividend yield of 2.16% further demonstrates its dedication to providing investors with a steady stream of income.

With strong earnings growth forecasts supporting future dividend increases, LHX is a potential candidate for becoming a Dividend Aristocrat, a prestigious title reserved for companies that have raised their dividends for at least 25 consecutive years. This prospect makes LHX an attractive option for income-focused investors seeking Dividend Stocks To Buy.

Furthermore, if LHX were to achieve Dividend Aristocrat status, its valuation may see an uptick, potentially enhancing the overall appeal of the stock.

Investors can benefit from the dividend growth potential of L3Harris Technologies as it continues to enhance shareholder value through its consistent and reliable dividend payments.

5. Parker-Hannafin (PH)

Alongside the impressive dividend growth track record of L3Harris Technologies, Parker-Hannafin (PH) also stands out as a Dividend King, boasting 67 consecutive years of dividend increases. With an average annual dividend growth rate of 14.26% over the past 5 years, the company has demonstrated its commitment to rewarding shareholders. Remarkably, Parker-Hannafin’s low payout ratio of 23.92% suggests ample room for continued dividend payout increases.

Investors are particularly enthusiastic about Parker-Hannafin’s strong earnings growth forecasts, which serve as a solid foundation for its consistent dividend growth. The company’s financial stability and enduring dividend increases have earned it the potential to become a Dividend Aristocrat, a prestigious designation reserved for S&P 500 companies with at least 25 years of consecutive dividend growth.

Parker-Hannafin’s long-standing history of dividend hikes, coupled with its low payout ratio and promising earnings outlook, make it a compelling choice for income-oriented investors seeking a reliable and growing dividend stream.

6. Starbucks (SBUX)

Starbucks (SBUX) offers investors a forward dividend yield of 2.5% as of May 7, 2024, showcasing the company’s commitment to rewarding shareholders. The coffee giant has demonstrated an impressive average annual dividend growth of 9.78% over the past five years, putting it on a path to potentially becoming a Dividend Aristocrat with its consistent dividend increases.

Analysts are optimistic about Starbucks’ future earnings growth, expecting the company to potentially surpass industry competitor McDonald’s. This strong earnings outlook, coupled with the stock’s reliable dividend income, presents attractive long-term upside potential for investors seeking high-quality S&P 500 dividend stocks.

Starbucks’ consistent dividend payments and growth make it a compelling option for investors looking to add a reliable dividend-paying company to their portfolios. As one of the top dividend stocks in the S&P 500, Starbucks’ combination of dividend yield and growth potential makes it a standout choice for those seeking both income and capital appreciation.

7. UnitedHealth Group (UNH)

UnitedHealth Group (UNH) trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 17.1, indicating a reasonable valuation for this health insurance and services giant. The company’s consistent track record of double-digit earnings growth showcases its financial strength and growth potential, making it an attractive option for investors seeking dividend stocks.

Despite recent negative developments in the industry, UNH remains a significant player with the potential to capitalize on the growing healthcare market. The company’s forward earnings multiple suggests a blend of stability and growth, providing investors with a compelling investment opportunity.

As one of the top 7 highest dividend stocks in the S&P 500 for 2024, UNH offers a unique combination of reasonable valuation, strong financial performance, and the ability to generate consistent returns for shareholders. This makes it a compelling choice for investors looking to diversify their portfolio with a well-established healthcare company that has demonstrated the ability to navigate industry challenges and deliver sustainable growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Dividend Stocks to Invest in 2024?

The best dividend stocks to invest in 2024 are likely to be those with a history of consistent dividend growth, strong financial performance, and stable business models. Investors should research companies’ financial health and dividend payout ratios to identify potential opportunities.

Who Is the Dividend King in 2024?

Parker-Hannifin Corporation is the Dividend King in 2024, boasting an impressive streak of 67 consecutive years of dividend growth and an average annual dividend growth rate of 14.26% over the past five years.

What Stock Has the Highest Dividend Yield in the S&P 500?

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ) currently offers the highest dividend yield in the S&P 500, standing at 4.88% as of May 7, 2024, making it an attractive investment option for income-focused investors.

What Are the Top 5 Dividend Stocks to Buy?

The top 5 dividend stocks to buy in 2024 according to industry analysts are The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (GS), Amgen Inc. (AMGN), The Home Depot, Inc. (HD), The Procter & Gamble Company (PG), and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) due to their consistent dividend growth and attractive yields.

About Our Content Creators

BG Vance is a seasoned professional dedicated to guiding individuals and families toward financial freedom. With a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA) and expertise as a licensed Realtor specializing in investments and real estate, BG Vance offers valuable insights into wealth-building strategies.

This post may contain affiliate links to products that I recommend, and I may earn money or products from companies mentioned in this post. Please check out my disclosure page for more details.

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