In this article, we will take a look at some of the best dividend stocks with over 4% dividend yields.
Investors often keep a close eye on the stock market, tracking price movements and hoping for gains. However, many tend to overlook another key source of returns — the dividends that companies distribute to their shareholders.
According to Kirsten Cabacungan, an investment strategist at Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank, investors should consider both price appreciation and dividend income when evaluating their total returns. Dividend-paying stocks, she explains, can be especially valuable for two main reasons: they provide a steady income stream that can help meet liquidity needs, and they have historically helped reduce volatility and cushion losses during market downturns. She made the following comment:
“Companies that have consistently increased their dividends tend to be more stable, higher-quality businesses, which historically have weathered downturns and are more likely to have the ability to pay dividends consistently.”
For those focused on generating income, Cabacungan suggests looking for companies with consistently higher-than-average dividend yields over time. Meanwhile, growth-focused investors who don’t rely on immediate income might prefer stocks with a history of raising their dividends as profits and cash flows expand. Given this, we have taken a look at some of the best dividend stocks with high yields.
Our Methodology:
For this article, we used a Finviz screener to identify stocks with dividend yields above 4%, as of October 12. From that list, we picked companies with consistent dividend track records and sound financials. The stocks are ranked according to their dividend yields.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 427.7% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 264 percentage points (see more details here).
12. Magna International Inc. (NYSE:MGA)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 4.46%
Magna International Inc. (NYSE:MGA) stands among the world’s largest automotive suppliers, producing a wide range of components including body structures, seating systems, powertrains, and even full vehicle assemblies. The company serves nearly every major automaker globally, operating more than 340 manufacturing facilities across 29 countries.
Its extensive international footprint is just one of its strengths. Magna International Inc. (NYSE:MGA) continues to be viewed as a strong long-term investment opportunity, making it one of the best dividend stocks with high yields. Importantly, the company’s growth strategy extends beyond traditional internal combustion vehicles. The company has positioned itself at the forefront of the electric vehicle transition and is actively expanding in this segment.
For instance, Magna International Inc. (NYSE:MGA) recently secured a major assembly contract with XPENG for the European market, further highlighting its growth potential in the fast-evolving EV industry.
In addition to this, Magna International Inc. (NYSE:MGA)’s dividend history makes it an appealing option for income investors. The company has been growing its payouts for 15 consecutive years, and it currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.485 per share. The stock has a dividend yield of 4.46%, as of October 12.
11. Black Hills Corporation (NYSE:BKH)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 4.48%
Black Hills Corporation (NYSE:BKH) supplies electricity and natural gas to about 1.34 million customers across eight states. The company’s future growth will be supported by regular rate reviews that influence revenue and profitability, as well as continued expansion of its utility infrastructure.
Currently, Black Hills Corporation (NYSE:BKH) has a $4.7 billion investment pipeline planned from 2025 to 2029, which includes new electric transmission lines and natural gas pipelines. After exiting the oil business in 2018, the company is now more focused on its core utility operations, making it less vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices.
Thanks to its stable business model and strong competitive position, Black Hills Corporation (NYSE:BKH) maintains a solid record of dividend safety. The company targets a payout ratio between 50% and 60% of its net income, supporting sustainable dividend growth. BKH is one of the best dividend stocks as the company has been rewarding shareholders with growing dividends for the past 55 years. The company’s quarterly dividend comes in at $0.676 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.48%, as of October 12.
10. Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 4.49%
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is a leading American multinational company engaged in media, entertainment, and telecommunications. Over the years, it has become one of the most diversified players in the industry, generating revenue from cable and broadband subscriptions, advertising, content licensing, and theme park operations. Its customer base includes residential and business clients, advertisers, content viewers, and theme park visitors across North America, Europe, and Asia.
In the second quarter of 2025, CEO Brian Roberts described Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA)’s performance as “solid,” citing record momentum in its wireless segment with 378,000 net line additions — the highest in its history. The theme park division recorded a 19% increase in revenue, boosted by the successful launch of Epic Universe in Orlando. In addition, Peacock’s revenue rose 18%, reducing its losses considerably. However, Comcast’s total customer relationships declined by 349,000 to 51.2 million, mainly due to a drop in domestic broadband subscribers.
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is also popular because of its dividend policy. The company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.33 per share for a dividend yield of 4.49%, as of October 12. It is among the best dividend stocks as the company holds a 21-year streak of consistent dividend growth.
9. UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 4.72%
UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI) is a diversified energy company with operations in propane, natural gas, and related services. Its business includes propane distribution in the US through AmeriGas, utility services for residential and commercial customers, midstream and marketing operations that manage gas logistics, and international LPG sales across Europe.
As a regulated utility, UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI)’s rates and service quality are closely monitored by government authorities. The company focuses on achieving favorable regulatory outcomes, improving operational efficiency, and investing in infrastructure upgrades to support long-term growth and profitability. Effectively managing costs, staying competitive, and meeting environmental standards remain key to its overall performance.
UGI Corporation (NYSE:UGI) also stands out for its consistent dividend record, having paid regular dividends to shareholders for over 140 years, making it a popular choice among income-focused investors. Currently, it offers a quarterly dividend of $0.375 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.72%, as recorded on October 12.
8. General Mills, Inc. (NYSE:GIS)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 4.95%
General Mills, Inc. (NYSE:GIS) is a global packaged foods leader with a portfolio of over 100 brands and operations in more than 100 countries. On June 30, 2025, the company finalized the sale of its North American yogurt division for $2.1 billion in cash, with plans to use the proceeds for share buybacks. The divested business accounted for about 8% of total sales last year, and this decision is expected to trim fiscal 2026 earnings per share by roughly 3%, as the segment had relatively low profit margins.
General Mills, Inc. (NYSE:GIS) is currently navigating a challenging environment. With the pandemic-driven boost in at-home food demand fading, the company faces tougher comparisons and rising cost inflation, which is expected to linger. It is also investing heavily in its pet segment to fuel future growth, though this is weighing on short-term profits. As a result, management has guided for flat organic sales and a 10%–15% decline in earnings per share for fiscal 2026.
Despite near-term pressures, General Mills, Inc. (NYSE:GIS)’s dividend remains a key strength. The company has paid regular dividends for 127 consecutive years and has never issued a dividend cut, underscoring its stability through economic cycles. The company’s quarterly dividend comes in at $0.61 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.95%, as of October 12.
7. Norwood Financial Corp. (NASDAQ:NWFL)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 5.04%
Norwood Financial Corp. (NASDAQ:NWFL), a bank holding company, operates through its subsidiary, Wayne Bank. The company provides a broad range of services, including personal and business credit, trust and investment products, and real estate settlement services, catering to individuals, businesses, non-profit organizations, and municipalities in the communities it serves. Its Wealth Management and Trust Department offers estate planning, investment management, and financial planning solutions to clients.
As of June 30, 2025, Norwood Financial Corp. (NASDAQ:NWFL) reported total assets of $2.365 billion, up 5.82% from $2.235 billion a year earlier.
In its second-quarter 2025 earnings report, the company highlighted continued performance improvement, attributing gains to higher yields following its fourth-quarter 2024 repositioning and stronger results across all business lines. In the first half of 2025, Norwood Financial Corp. (NASDAQ:NWFL) experienced solid growth in both loans and deposits, alongside improved yields, positioning the company with strong momentum heading into the latter half of the year.
Norwood Financial Corp. (NASDAQ:NWFL) also stands out because of its dividend growth. The company offers a quarterly dividend of $0.31 per share, having raised it by 3.3% in December 2024. This marked the company’s 32nd consecutive year of dividend growth, which makes NWFL one of the best dividend stocks. NWFL supports a dividend yield of 5.04%, as of October 12.
6. Avista Corporation (NYSE:AVA)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 5.29%
Avista Corporation (NYSE:AVA) is a regulated electric and natural gas utility based in Spokane, Washington. It serves roughly 423,000 electric customers and 383,000 natural gas customers across Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. In addition, the company owns Alaska Electric Light & Power (AEL&P), which provides electricity in Alaska.
Avista Corporation (NYSE:AVA) focuses on delivering reliable utility services, managing costs efficiently, and investing heavily in infrastructure and clean energy initiatives. Its operations are closely regulated, with state and federal agencies overseeing rates, making regulatory approvals, effective resource management, and a skilled workforce critical to executing major projects successfully.
Avista Corporation (NYSE:AVA) has also impressed investors with consistent dividend growth, reinforcing its appeal as a reliable utility stock. The company’s quarterly dividend comes in at $0.49 per share, having raised it by 3.2% earlier this year. Through this hike, AVA extended its dividend growth streak to 23 years, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks. As of October 12, the stock has a dividend yield of 5.29%.
5. Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 5.46%
Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO) is a global consumer self-care company best known for its broad range of over-the-counter (OTC) health and wellness products. Its portfolio includes nutrition, women’s health, pain relief, oral care, digestive health, and skin care products. Perrigo serves both store brands and several international branded products, making it a top store-brand supplier in North America and a recognized name in Europe with brands such as Compeed (wound care patches) and ellaOne (emergency contraception).
Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO)’s recent strategy focuses on strengthening its core self-care categories while streamlining operations. Initiatives like Project Energize and the Supply Chain Reinvention program aim to reduce costs and enhance supply chain flexibility. Innovation and new product launches have also been key, including products such as Opill, the first over-the-counter birth control pill. Perrigo’s success relies on operational efficiency, effective new product introductions, and maintaining strong positions in both store and branded offerings across markets.
Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO) also stands out for its dividend record, having increased its payouts for 22 consecutive years, making it a notable choice for income-focused investors. The company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.29 per share and has a dividend yield of 5.46%, as of October 12.
4. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 5.64%
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY), headquartered in New Jersey, is a global pharmaceutical leader developing prescription drugs across areas such as oncology, hematology, cardiology, immunology, and neuroscience.
The company’s recent strategy emphasizes expanding its “Growth Portfolio” through new product launches, global market expansion, and acquisitions via strategic partnerships. A key challenge is offsetting revenue declines from older “Legacy Portfolio” drugs as patents expire and competition intensifies. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) prioritizes investment in research and development, forming strategic collaborations, and navigating global regulatory and pricing pressures.
Looking ahead, investors can expect strong sales from Cobenfy, a new schizophrenia treatment approved by the FDA last September, with projected revenues of $2.6 billion by 2030. For 2025, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) anticipates earnings between $6.35 and $6.65 per share, well above the $2.48 annualized dividend, indicating a solid capacity to maintain and potentially grow its high-yield dividend. With a robust lineup of new products to counteract upcoming patent expirations, the company’s dividend growth appears sustainable for at least the next decade.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) has already increased its dividends for 16 consecutive years, which makes it one of the best dividend stocks. The company pays a quarterly dividend of $0.62 per share and has a dividend yield of 5.64%, as of October 12.
3. Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 5.65%
Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN) manages investment portfolios across a wide spectrum of asset classes, including equities, fixed income, alternatives, multi-asset solutions, and cash management. The company’s business model relies on management fees based on total assets under management (AUM), which reached $1.61 trillion as of Q3 FY2025.
Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN) continues to invest in strategies aimed at long-term earnings-per-share growth. Over the past year, the company completed two acquisitions, made four strategic investments, and engaged in active share repurchases. Notably, the company has been expanding into alternative investments to create a new growth avenue, with key ventures including Legg Mason, Lexington Partners, and Alcentra.
Several factors give Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN) an edge. Its brand recognition, built over more than 70 years, reflects deep expertise and established investment capabilities. The company’s substantial AUM allows it to offer diverse investment opportunities and benefit from economies of scale.
Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN) also boasts a strong dividend track record. It is just one year shy of becoming a Dividend King, having increased its dividend for 49 consecutive years, making it a standout choice for income-focused investors. The company’s quarterly dividend sits at $0.32 per share for a dividend yield of 5.65%, as of October 12.
2. Universal Corporation (NYSE:UVV)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 6.22%
Universal Corporation (NYSE:UVV) is the world’s largest exporter and importer of leaf tobacco. Acting as a wholesale purchaser and processor, the company operates between tobacco farms and manufacturers of cigarettes, pipe tobacco, and cigars. Founded in 1886, it is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia.
Universal Corporation (NYSE:UVV)’s business benefits from a dependable consumer base. Even though overall tobacco usage has declined, those who continue to smoke tend to maintain their purchases regardless of economic conditions, providing a stable revenue stream.
Although earnings growth has been moderate in recent years, Universal Corporation (NYSE:UVV) managed the last recession effectively. The company offers a high dividend yield, but its limited earnings growth over the past decade has slowed the pace of dividend increases. However, it still is a Dividend King, with 55 consecutive years of dividend growth. Currently, it offers a quarterly dividend of $0.82 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.22%, as of October 12.
1. Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE)
Dividend Yield as of October 12: 6.94%
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) is a major US pharmaceutical and biotechnology company that offers a wide range of products and services. In recent years, the company has experienced declining revenue and profits, leading to a significant drop in its market value. While Pfizer has been working to reverse this trend, progress has been limited so far.
Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) has focused on launching new drugs to drive top-line growth. Recently, the company announced a $5 billion cash acquisition of Metsera, a smaller biotech firm developing weight management treatments. Some of Pfizer’s internally developed candidates in this area have been unsuccessful, but the growing market for anti-obesity therapies presents an opportunity. The company also maintains a robust pipeline in oncology, with several candidates expected to receive approval over time.
In addition, Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) dividend yield remains a strong attraction for investors, adding to its appeal as an income-generating stock. The stock supports a dividend yield of 6.94%, as of October 12. The company has raised its dividends for 15 consecutive years and currently offers a quarterly dividend of $0.43 per share.
While we acknowledge the potential of PFE to grow, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than PFE and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.
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