VOO vs SPY: Dividend Yield, Total Return & Fees Compared

This page compares Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) with SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) using prices and distributions through November 9, 2026. The numbers update automatically after each trading session.

With dividends reinvested, VOO has led over the last 12 months at +13.45% versus +13.39% for SPY. VOO currently yields 1.07% (trailing 12-month) against 1.01% for SPY. Across five years the total-return gap is +72.68% for VOO vs +72.21% for SPY.

VOO leads on both current yield and 1-year total return. Yields and returns move with markets, so check the longer periods below before drawing conclusions.

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 -24.53% for VOO and -24.50% for SPY. These figures use the same available dates for both instruments, exclude intraday moves, and are not forecasts.

VOO's recorded distributions over the 12 months ending November 9, 2026 ranged from $1.77 to $1.96 per share across 4 distribution dates. A payment range includes special distributions and does not establish the amount of a future payment.

SPY's recorded distributions over the 12 months ending November 9, 2026 ranged from $1.80 to $1.99 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.

Start with the index each fund tracks, then compare expenses, inception dates and performance over a shared period. Similar names do not establish identical holdings or results.

Review Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) payment history and SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) 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.