DGRO vs SDY: Dividend Yield, Total Return & Fees Compared

This page compares iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (DGRO) with State Street SPDR S&P Dividend ETF (SDY) using prices and distributions through November 9, 2026. The numbers update automatically after each trading session.

With dividends reinvested, DGRO has led over the last 12 months at +22.49% versus +22.28% for SDY. SDY currently yields 2.31% (trailing 12-month) against 1.84% for DGRO. Across five years the total-return gap is +69.03% for DGRO vs +47.98% for SDY.

The higher-yielding fund (SDY) has trailed on 1-year total return. Yield only measures the income a fund pays; total return also counts the change in share price, so it is the fuller basis for comparing the two.

Across 1,265 shared trading dates from October 26, 2021 to November 9, 2026, the largest observed peak-to-trough decline with dividends reinvested was -19.30% for DGRO and -15.21% for SDY. These figures use the same available dates for both instruments, exclude intraday moves, and are not forecasts.

DGRO's recorded distributions over the 12 months ending November 9, 2026 ranged from $0.3306 to $0.447 per share across 4 distribution dates. A payment range includes special distributions and does not establish the amount of a future payment.

SDY's recorded distributions over the 12 months ending November 9, 2026 ranged from $0.8743 to $1.02 per share across 4 distribution dates. A payment range includes special distributions and does not establish the amount of a future payment.

Fund expense ratios are annual operating costs, not a bill added to the historical returns shown here. Trading spreads, brokerage costs and personal taxes can reduce an investor's realized return.

Compare payment history with total return and fees. Check whether a larger current yield comes with different drawdowns or less consistent distributions; a dividend-growth label does not promise future increases.

Review iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (DGRO) payment history and State Street SPDR S&P Dividend ETF (SDY) payment history before choosing assumptions for the dividend reinvestment calculator. Run each scenario separately; the calculator uses your rates rather than importing these historical returns.

For a cash target, use the income goal calculator. Read our guide to comparing dividend ETFs and data and editorial approach for context on the historical figures.