Retirement investing is fundamentally different from accumulation-phase investing. The priority shifts from maximizing growth to preserving capital and generating reliable income. A single large drawdown can be devastating when you are withdrawing from your portfolio rather than adding to it.
The best retirement stocks combine three qualities: stability (low volatility and consistent earnings), quality (strong balance sheets and profitability), and income (sustainable dividends). Our model identifies stocks where all three factors converge by requiring high stability scores, strong quality scores, and dividend yields above 1%.
In 2026, retirees face unique challenges including persistent inflation, fluctuating interest rates, and longer life expectancies requiring portfolios to last 30+ years. The stocks below are selected for their ability to provide both capital preservation and growing income streams across economic cycles.
Top 10 Best Retirement Stocks 2026 Picks
| # | Ticker | Composite | Rating | Stability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TRTNpA | 71.3 | 98.8 | |
| 2 | JNJ | 66.5 | 98.4 | |
| 3 | SGU | 68.7 | 97.1 | |
| 4 | TAK | 71.9 | 97.1 | |
| 5 | NVS | 73.6 | 97.0 | |
| 6 | BTI | 68.7 | 96.6 | |
| 7 | UL | 77.9 | 96.5 | |
| 8 | MNST | 68.7 | 96.5 | |
| 9 | HLN | 69.2 | 95.4 | |
| 10 | KOF | 71.6 | 95.2 |
Rankings are based on our proprietary 6-factor quantitative model. Data sourced from institutional-grade providers and refreshed daily. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Top 3 Picks: A Closer Look
Our top three retirement stock picks offer the best combination of income, stability, and quality for long-term retirement portfolios.
1. TRTNpA — Triton International Ltd
Triton International Ltd earns a composite score of 71.3 with a Stability of 98.8. Operating in the Services sector, the stock currently holds a Buy rating based on our 6-factor quantitative model. Quality score stands at 69.6, while momentum registers 70.0 — indicating strong positive price trends. View full TRTNpA analysis.
2. JNJ — JOHNSON & JOHNSON
JOHNSON & JOHNSON earns a composite score of 66.5 with a Stability of 98.4. Operating in the Manufacturing sector, the stock currently holds a Buy rating based on our 6-factor quantitative model. Quality score stands at 67.2, while momentum registers 68.2 — indicating strong positive price trends. View full JNJ analysis.
3. SGU — STAR GROUP, L.P.
STAR GROUP, L.P. earns a composite score of 68.7 with a Stability of 97.1. Operating in the Retail Trade sector, the stock currently holds a Buy rating based on our 6-factor quantitative model. Quality score stands at 82.4, while momentum registers 62.6 — indicating strong positive price trends. View full SGU analysis.
Methodology
We filter for stocks with stability scores of 65 or higher (top quartile for low volatility), quality scores of 55+ (profitable, well-managed companies), and dividend yields above 1%. Each stock must also carry a Buy or Strong Buy overall rating.
The stability score is the primary sort factor because for retirement portfolios, capital preservation matters more than maximum upside. Stocks with high stability scores exhibit lower drawdowns during market corrections and more consistent earnings through economic cycles.
Quality scores ensure these are financially healthy companies with strong balance sheets, high returns on equity, and sustainable profit margins — reducing the risk of dividend cuts or financial distress that could devastate a retirement portfolio.
Read our full methodology for a detailed explanation of the 6-factor model, factor weights, and data sources.
How to Use This List
Use this list as the foundation for the equity portion of your retirement portfolio. Most financial advisors recommend 40-60% equities even in retirement to maintain purchasing power against inflation.
Diversify across sectors — do not allocate more than 20% to any single industry. Check each stock's sector on its detail page and aim for broad exposure across Consumer Staples, Healthcare, Utilities, Financials, and Industrials.
Review each stock's payout ratio and free cash flow on its detail page to confirm the dividend is sustainable. A payout ratio under 75% with positive free cash flow suggests the dividend has room to grow.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safest stocks for retirement?
The safest retirement stocks are large-cap companies with high stability scores, strong balance sheets, and sustainable dividends. Our list requires stability scores in the top quartile and strong quality fundamentals to identify these stocks.
How many stocks should a retiree own?
Most financial advisors recommend 15-25 individual stocks for adequate diversification, or using this list alongside a broad market ETF. The goal is to avoid concentration risk while still benefiting from individual stock selection.
Should retirees invest in growth stocks?
A small allocation (10-20%) to growth stocks can help maintain purchasing power over a multi-decade retirement. However, the core of a retirement portfolio should prioritize stability and income, which is what this list focuses on.
What dividend yield should retirees target?
A portfolio yield of 2-4% is generally sustainable for retirement. Chasing yields above 6% often signals underlying risk. Our list requires yields above 1% but prioritizes stability and quality over maximum yield.
Important Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or a solicitation to buy or sell any security. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The quantitative model used to generate these rankings is based on historical data and may not predict future outcomes. Always conduct your own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Blank Capital Research is not a registered investment advisor.