Essex Property Trust Hikes Quarterly Dividend 0.8% to $2.59, 32nd Increase
Essex Property Trust increased its quarterly dividend by 0.8% to $2.59 per share, marking the 32nd annual hike and bringing the annual payout to $10.36 (4.07% yield based on Feb. 19 closing). The dividend will be paid on April 15 to shareholders of record as of March 31, 2026.
1. Dividend Hike Announcement
Essex Property Trust’s board approved a 0.8% increase in its first-quarter cash dividend to $2.59 per share, up from $2.57 in the prior quarter. The higher dividend will be paid on April 15 to shareholders of record on March 31, 2026.
2. Consecutive Annual Increases
This marks the 32nd consecutive annual dividend increase by the company, underscoring its commitment to returning capital. Over the past five years, the dividend has grown 5.14%, reflecting disciplined portfolio management and consistent cash flow.
3. Financial Performance and Sustainability
In Q4 2025, core funds from operations rose to $3.98 per share and total revenues climbed 5.5% to $479.6 million, with same-property NOI up 3.8% and occupancy at 96.3%. With $1.7 billion in liquidity, the trust maintains ample flexibility to support its dividend policy.