10 Dividend Growth Stocks: October 2026

In this monthly series, I rank a selection of dividend growth stocks and present the top 10 stocks for consideration. This month's screen targets dividend growth stocks with Dividend Safety scores ≥8.0, forward yields ≥2.5%, and prices at or below fair value. An equally weighted portfolio of the top 10 stocks yields 2.8% but would have underperformed SPY over the past 5 years.

Seeking Alpha • 20 hours ago

American States Water (AWR) Could Be a Great Choice

Dividends are one of the best benefits to being a shareholder, but finding a great dividend stock is no easy task. Does American States Water (AWR) have what it takes?

Zacks Investment Research • Oct 7, 2026

Best Dividend Kings: September 2026

Dividend Kings are underperforming SPY in September, with a -4.22% average return versus SPY's marginal gain. Despite aggregate weakness, 29 Dividend Kings appear both undervalued and offer a long-term expected return of at least 10%. Recent dividend increases and higher projected earnings growth have modestly improved the Kings' average dividend growth rate to 4.49%.

Seeking Alpha • Sep 26, 2026

The Dividend Kings Ranked By Quality Scores (September 2026)

Dividend Kings have a 50+ year track record of increasing dividends, showcasing resilience through economic challenges. I rank the Dividend Kings using my 9F Quality Scores, blending qualitative and quantitative factors for a robust, investment-grade assessment. ADP stands out as the best total-return candidate. It is undervalued, high-quality, and offering a strong projected dividend growth rate and Adjusted Chowder Number.

Seeking Alpha • Sep 18, 2026

Why Is American States Water (AWR) Up 4.7% Since Last Earnings Report?

American States Water (AWR) reported earnings 30 days ago. What's next for the stock?

Zacks Investment Research • Sep 4, 2026

Best Dividend Kings: August 2026

Dividend Kings are outperforming the S&P 500 YTD, with a 14.98% total return versus SPY's 12.89%. Thirty Dividend Kings are beating SPY, and 25 appear both potentially undervalued and offer ≥10% annualized return potential. Dividend growth among Kings accelerated, with the average rate rising to 4.12% and several notable increases announced.

Seeking Alpha • Aug 24, 2026

Can AWR Continue Raising Dividends for Long-Term Shareholders?

AWR's 72-year dividend growth streak, stronger cash flow and regulated growth opportunities support its long-term payout strategy.

Zacks Investment Research • Aug 14, 2026

5 Strong Buy Dividend Aristocrats Posted Huge Q2 Earnings: Grab Them Before September

Investors love dividend stocks because they provide dependable passive income streams and an excellent opportunity for solid total return.

24/7 Wall Street • Aug 13, 2026

5 Dividend Kings That Blew Away Q2 Earnings Are Sizzling Summer Bargains

Investors seeking defensive companies that pay substantial dividends are drawn to the Dividend Kings, and for good reason.

24/7 Wall Street • Aug 11, 2026

American States Water Q2 Earnings Call Highlights

American States Water NYSE: AWR reported second-quarter 2026 earnings of $1.09 per share, up from $0.87 per share a year earlier, as its water, electric and contracted services businesses each posted year-over-year gains.

MarketBeat • Aug 7, 2026