3 Best Dividend Stocks to Consider Purchasing This March

Stable Dividend Stocks for Uncertain Markets

When market conditions are unpredictable, many investors turn to dependable dividend-paying stocks. Companies that maintain regular dividend payments, regardless of economic cycles, demonstrate both financial strength and a commitment to rewarding shareholders over time.

Here are three dividend stocks worth considering for your portfolio this March.

1. Verizon Communications (VZ)

Verizon Communications stands as a leading force in the U.S. telecommunications sector, with a market capitalization near $206 billion. As one of the nation’s top wireless providers, Verizon delivers mobile, broadband, and enterprise networking services. Its substantial size supports steady profits and robust cash flow, making it a consistent dividend payer for the past two decades. The company is approaching “Dividend Aristocrat” status, reserved for firms that have raised dividends for 25 consecutive years. Management has highlighted their unwavering dedication to shareholder returns, recently boosting the annual dividend by 2.5%.

Verizon currently offers a dividend yield of 5.5%, outpacing the S&P 500 average. Its payout ratio is 57%, striking a balance that allows for debt repayment, reinvestment, and continued dividend growth. Looking ahead, the company projects annual free cash flow of $21.5 billion by 2026—the highest since 2020—ensuring ample resources for dividend payments and operational needs. While Verizon may not deliver rapid growth, it remains a solid choice for those seeking reliable income.

Analyst sentiment is generally positive, with a “Moderate Buy” consensus. Of 29 analysts, eight rate the stock as a “Strong Buy,” three as a “Moderate Buy,” and 18 as a “Hold.” Verizon trades near its average target price of $49.72, but the highest analyst estimate suggests potential gains of up to 42% over the next year.

2. NextEra Energy (NEE)

NextEra Energy, headquartered in Florida, is among the largest electric utilities in North America, serving millions through both regulated operations and a rapidly expanding clean energy division. The company’s forward dividend yield stands at 2.7%, below the utilities sector average of 3.7%, but NextEra has a distinguished record of consistent dividend growth, earning it the title of Dividend Aristocrat after more than 30 years of annual increases.

With a forward payout ratio of 61%, NextEra’s dividends are well-supported by stable cash flows. The company plans to raise its dividend by about 10% annually through 2026, followed by 6% annual increases until 2028. Its mix of regulated utility services and renewable energy projects provides both stability and growth opportunities, underpinning its ability to maintain and grow dividends.

Wall Street analysts rate NextEra as a “Moderate Buy.” Out of 22 analysts, 15 recommend a “Strong Buy,” six suggest holding, and one rates it a “Strong Sell.” The stock is trading close to its average target of $92.24, with the highest target price indicating a possible 14% upside over the next year.

3. Rexford Industrial (REXR)

Rexford Industrial, a real estate investment trust based in Los Angeles, focuses on industrial properties in Southern California’s supply-constrained markets. The company offers a dividend yield of 4.6%, slightly above the real estate sector average. For REITs, funds from operations (FFO) are a key metric, and Rexford’s FFO payout ratio is 73%, which is on the higher side but manageable as long as FFO continues to grow. In 2025, FFO rose by 9.2% to $558.6 million, supporting $103 million in dividend payments. The company also raised its quarterly dividend by 1.2% for 2026 to $0.435 per share and has increased dividends for 12 consecutive years.

Rexford’s strategic focus on Southern California, one of the most supply-limited industrial regions in the U.S., gives it pricing power and supports steady occupancy and rent growth—both crucial for sustaining dividends over time.

Analyst consensus for Rexford is “Moderate Buy.” Among 18 analysts, four rate it a “Strong Buy,” one a “Moderate Buy,” 11 a “Hold,” and two a “Strong Sell.” The average price target of $41.88 suggests an 11% upside, while the highest target of $52 points to a potential 38% gain in the next 12 months.