Chesapeake Utilities (CPK) is a Top Dividend Stock Right Now: Should You Buy?

Company Overview - Chesapeake Utilities (CPK) is located in Dover and operates within the Utilities sector, experiencing a price change of -1.21% since the beginning of the year [3] Dividend Information - The company currently pays a dividend of $0.69 per share, resulting in a dividend yield of 2.29%, which is lower than the Utility - Gas Distribution industry's yield of 3.32% and the S&P 500's yield of 1.48% [3] - Chesapeake Utilities has an annualized dividend of $2.74, reflecting a 9.2% increase from the previous year, with an average annual increase of 9.90% over the last five years [4] Earnings Growth - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CPK's earnings per share for 2025 is $6.27, indicating a year-over-year growth rate of 16.33% [5] - The company's current payout ratio is 46%, meaning it distributes 46% of its trailing 12-month earnings per share as dividends [4] Investment Considerations - CPK is considered a strong dividend play and is currently rated with a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), making it an appealing investment opportunity [6]