Kroger vs Ross Stores (KR vs ROST)

Kroger (KR) vs Ross Stores (ROST) in plain English: P/E, growth, margins, debt and dividend side by side, key differences and which fits each investor profile.

Kroger (KR) and Ross Stores (ROST) compete in retail. Here are Kroger and Ross Stores side by side with their real figures as of November 4, 2026: what sets them apart, which fits each kind of investor and the most common questions, without telling you whether to buy Kroger or Ross Stores.

Kroger vs Ross Stores: the figures

Kroger and Ross Stores figures from Yahoo Finance, the same source the Fintols analysis uses, retrieved on November 4, 2026; N/A means that Kroger or Ross Stores figure is not available, and we never estimate it.

3 key differences between Kroger and Ross Stores

1. Profitability: for every 100 of sales, Ross Stores keeps 10.8 as net profit and Kroger keeps 0.7.
2. Debt: Kroger owes 2.8x its annual operating profit (EBITDA), while Ross Stores owes 0.1x its EBITDA.
3. Growth: Ross Stores grew sales +13.3% year on year in its latest quarter, against +2.0% for Kroger.

Kroger or Ross Stores: which fits your profile

• If you want growth: Ross Stores is growing faster today, so it fits better with investors who put business growth first, usually accepting a higher P/E and a bumpier ride.
• If you want income (dividends): Kroger pays the higher dividend relative to its price.
• If you prefer caution: Ross Stores has less debt relative to its profit, which usually gives more room in a bad year.
• If price is what matters most to you: Ross Stores trades on the lower P/E; check first whether that is an opportunity or a sign of a business that grows less.

Neither Kroger nor Ross Stores wins on everything, and owning both is also an option: spreading money across several companies or an index fund reduces what rides on each one.

How Kroger and Ross Stores make money

Kroger (KR)

Kroger is a U.S. supermarket chain operating under banners such as Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Harris Teeter and King Soopers. Beyond groceries, it fills prescriptions at in-store pharmacies, sells fuel at its gas stations and pushes its own private labels, including Simple Truth and Private Selection. Full Kroger analysis.

Ross Stores (ROST)

Ross Stores runs off-price stores across the United States under two banners: Ross Dress for Less, the main chain, and dd's DISCOUNTS, aimed at lower-income households. It sells brand-name clothing, shoes, accessories and home goods below department-store prices by snapping up closeouts and excess seasonal inventory. Full Ross Stores analysis.

Frequently asked questions: Kroger vs Ross Stores

Is Kroger or Ross Stores the better stock?

Choosing between Kroger and Ross Stores depends on what you are looking for. Ross Stores is growing faster right now, and Ross Stores trades on the lower P/E. Fintols does not tell you whether to buy Kroger or Ross Stores: it shows you the differences so you can decide.

Which pays a higher dividend, Kroger or Ross Stores?

As of November 4, 2026, Kroger yields 2.34% and Ross Stores yields 0.77%. Also check how much of their profit Kroger and Ross Stores pay out: if it is more than they earn, it cannot last.

Which is more expensive, Kroger or Ross Stores?

On P/E, Kroger (38.3x) is more expensive than Ross Stores (29.7x) as of November 4, 2026. A higher P/E can be justified if earnings grow faster, so compare it with each company's growth in the table.

Can I own both Kroger and Ross Stores?

Yes. Many people spread their money across several companies, such as Kroger and Ross Stores, or use index funds so they do not depend on just one. If you are starting out, decide how much you want to invest and for how long before buying Kroger or Ross Stores.

More comparisons with Kroger or Ross Stores

• Kroger vs Sea Limited
• Dollar General vs Kroger
• GameStop vs Kroger
• Ross Stores vs Sea Limited

More companies like Kroger and Ross Stores: retail stocks. Educational content about Kroger and Ross Stores, not investment advice.