What's the Share Count for $10K Annual Income from Coca-Cola Dividends?

The Math Behind the Dividend Target

Want to pocket $10,000 every year from Coca-Cola? You’re looking at a substantial position. With the beverage giant’s quarterly dividend currently set at $0.51 per share, you’d need approximately 4,902 shares to hit that annual income target. At the December 12 stock price of $70.50, that translates to roughly $346,000 in invested capital — a significant commitment for most retail investors.

A 63-Year Track Record Worth Noting

Coca-Cola’s dividend narrative is remarkable for one reason: consistency. The company just marked 63 consecutive years of dividend increases, a February 2025 board approval confirming the latest hike. This uninterrupted streak reflects management’s confidence in the business model and commitment to returning profits to shareholders. Few companies can claim such longevity in boosting payouts.

Why Coca-Cola Remains a Defensive Play

The numbers tell a story of stability. Coca-Cola commands 2.2 billion daily servings across 200+ products worldwide, demonstrating formidable market penetration. The balance sheet backs this dominance: a 32% operating margin in Q3 shows the kind of profitability that funds those consistent dividend raises. Trading at a 23x P/E ratio, the stock carries a reasonable valuation for a defensive holding.

The brand moat is durable. Economic cycles shift consumer behavior, yet people continue reaching for Coca-Cola regardless of recession or expansion. That’s the power of a global beverage empire with decades of market leadership.

The Growth Question

Here’s where caution enters. Over the past decade, Coca-Cola has matched the market rather than beaten it. While the dividend provides steady income, shareholders shouldn’t expect explosive capital appreciation. The stock delivers what it promises: reliable income and capital preservation for conservative portfolios, not market-crushing returns.

The Income Investor’s Reality Check

Building a $10,000 annual dividend from Coca-Cola requires deploying $346,000 at current prices and dividend levels. For many, this is a multi-year goal requiring consistent investment and patience. But the payoff—decades of rising income from a globally recognized business—appeals to those seeking passive income over capital gains.