1.Kimberly-Clark Group
KMB (NASDAQ)
Kimberly-Clark Group offers a solid dividend yield of approximately 4.90%, making it an appealing option for income-focused investors. Despite recent challenges, reflected in a 1-year return of -21.65% and a 5-year return of -24.59%, the company’s strong balance sheet and potential for steady earnings growth position it well for long-term stability. Analysts maintain a median price target of $127.50, indicating cautious optimism about its valuation and future prospects.
Pros:
- Steady income from dividends
- Strong brand portfolio
Cons:
- Negative returns over the past year
- High market volatility
2.Franklin Resources, Inc
BEN (NYSE)
Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN) stands out as an attractive option for investors seeking strong income through its impressive dividend yield of 5.41%. The company is recognized among the best dividend stocks, making the "Dividend Channel S.A.F.E. 25" list due to its solid returns and reliable payouts. Analysts maintain a cautious outlook with a median price target of $22.00, reflecting the stock's volatility, yet its recent 1-year return of 35.02% showcases its potential for growth.
Pros:
- Strong dividend growth history
- High yield among aristocrats
Cons:
- Market volatility risk
- Recent negative returns over 5 years
3.Realty Income Corp
O (NYSE)
With a robust dividend yield of 5.72%, Realty Income Corporation (O) stands out for its consistent dividend increases, making it a dependable choice for income-focused investors. Analysts view it as a solid long-term investment, with a median 12-month price target of $60.00 and a consensus rating of Hold. The stock has delivered a 12.24% return over the past year, underscoring its potential for steady growth.
Pros:
- Reliable monthly dividends
- Strong historical performance
Cons:
- Market fluctuations
- Dependence on real estate market
4.Clorox Co
CLX (NYSE)
Clorox Co (CLX) stands out with a dividend yield of 4.65%, making it an attractive option for value investors seeking reliable income from financially healthy companies. Despite a challenging year, with a 1-year return of -32.06% and a 5-year return of -44.92%, analysts have noted that the stock may be undervalued, reflected in a median 12-month price target of $115.50. Recent ratings suggest a cautious approach, with TD Cowen maintaining a "Hold" and Goldman Sachs advising a "Sell."
Pros:
- Established brand
- Diverse product range
Cons:
- Significant negative returns
- Market volatility
5.Hormel Foods Corp
HRL (NYSE)
Hormel Foods Corp (HRL) stands out as an attractive option for investors seeking reliable income, boasting a solid 5.00% dividend yield alongside 60 consecutive years of dividend increases. However, the stock has faced challenges recently, with a 1-year return of -24.49% and a 5-year return of -48.15%. Analysts maintain a favorable outlook, with a median 12-month price target of $27.50, suggesting HRL may be undervalued and a potential buy for value investors.
Pros:
- Long history of dividend increases
- Diverse product offerings
Cons:
- Negative returns over multiple years
- Market competition
6.Kenvue Inc
KVUE (NYSE)
Kenvue Inc (KVUE) stands out as a strong dividend grower, currently offering a dividend yield of 4.95%. Despite recent performance challenges, with a one-year return of -18.93% and a five-year return of -36.80%, analysts maintain a consensus rating of Buy, emphasizing the stock's potential for recovery and consistent income generation from its quarterly $0.83 dividend payouts.
Pros:
- Strong brand portfolio
- Consistent dividend payments
Cons:
- Negative returns over multiple years
- Market competition
7.Amcor Plc
AMCR (NYSE)
Amcor Plc (AMCR) stands out as a top dividend aristocrat, currently offering a yield of 6.02%. Despite experiencing a one-year return of -9.56% and a five-year return of -25.97%, it maintains a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" among analysts, with a median price target of $10.85. This makes it an attractive option for investors seeking reliable income from financially healthy companies.
Pros:
- High dividend yield
- Strong market presence
Cons:
- Negative returns over the past year
- Market volatility
Final Words
As you consider the best dividend aristocrats this January 2026, take time to compare your options and conduct thorough research to make informed investment decisions that align with your financial goals. Your proactive approach will help you identify opportunities that can enhance your portfolio's performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The dividend yield of Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN) is 5.21%. This yield is among the top aristocrats, making it an attractive option for income-focused investors.
Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN) has shown a 1-Year return of 35.02% and a 3-Month return of 13.10%. However, it has experienced a 3-Year return of -14.05% and a 5-Year return of -3.35%.
The next dividend payment for Franklin Resources, Inc. (BEN) is $0.3300, following the previous dividend date of January 9, 2026. Dividends are distributed quarterly.
Franklin Resources Inc (BEN) is considered a safer investment option as it has made the 'Dividend Channel S.A.F.E. 25' list, indicating solid returns and a history of consistent dividend increases.
Investing in dividend aristocrats carries certain risks, including market volatility and changes in interest rates that may affect stock prices. Additionally, while these companies have a history of paying dividends, there is no guarantee of future payments.
To compare different dividend aristocrats, consider factors such as dividend yield, payout ratios, historical performance, and financial stability. Analyzing these metrics will help you make informed investment decisions.


