The Safer Way to Earn 5%+ Yields Without Chasing Risk

"The bigger question isn't whether you can earn a 5% yield, you can, but it's more of a question as to how to do so safely. This doesn't mean safe, like keeping your cash under a mattress safe, since there is no interest earned. On the other hand, you have to think about what your risk level truly is, and while you don't want to chase too much risk, you can't avoid it at all."

"High-Quality Real Estate Income That Holds Up in Any Market It might come as a surprise to many investors, but real estate investments are among the most reliable ways to secure yields above 5% without drifting into speculation and thereby taking on unnecessary risk. These companies are generating income from long-term leases, a diversified tenant base, and have a business model that is built specifically to produce steady payouts."

"In the case of Realty Income ( NYSE:O), you have what has become the gold standard for a safe yield. With a dividend yield of 5.64% and an annual dividend of $3.23 as of November 2025, the company has raised its dividend for 112 consecutive quarters and pays investors monthly, which is a big win for anyone looking for steady income and to live off their portfolio."

Securing 5%+ yields is possible but requires balancing return with acceptable risk levels. Absolute safety, for example holding cash, yields no interest. Real estate investments frequently deliver reliable yields above 5% without drifting into speculation. Income-focused real estate companies generate revenue from long-term leases and diversified tenant bases to support steady payouts. Realty Income yields 5.64% and pays monthly after raising dividends for 112 consecutive quarters. NNN REIT focuses on single-tenant, triple-net leased properties and has raised dividends for 36 years, indicating consistent income with lower volatility.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.