18 Best Dividend Stocks for Passive Income — Ranked for 2026

6. Realty Income Corporation (O) - The Monthly Dividend REIT

Realty Income Corporation claims the seventh position as the premier monthly dividend stock, offering investors the unique advantage of receiving dividend payments twelve times per year while maintaining one of the most consistent dividend growth records in the real estate investment trust sector. Known as "The Monthly Dividend Company," Realty Income has increased its dividend for 29 consecutive years and made 636 consecutive monthly dividend payments, demonstrating exceptional consistency that appeals to investors seeking regular cash flow for living expenses or reinvestment opportunities. The company's business model focuses on acquiring and managing single-tenant commercial properties leased to high-quality tenants under long-term net lease agreements, creating predictable cash flows that are largely insulated from property management responsibilities and operating expense fluctuations. Realty Income's diversified portfolio of over 11,000 properties across various retail, industrial, and office sectors reduces concentration risk while providing exposure to different economic drivers and tenant categories. The REIT's tenant base includes investment-grade companies and recession-resistant businesses such as Walgreens, 7-Eleven, and Dollar General, which operate in essential retail categories that maintain stable cash flows even during economic downturns. With a conservative payout ratio relative to funds from operations and access to multiple capital sources including debt and equity markets, Realty Income maintains the financial flexibility to continue its monthly dividend growth while pursuing accretive acquisition opportunities that enhance long-term shareholder returns.