Generating passive income is a goal for many investors, and one of the best ways to do it is through Vanguard ETFs for passive income. These funds allow investors to earn steady income while benefiting from long-term growth. Vanguard is well-known for offering low-cost, high-quality ETFs that focus on dividends, bonds, and growth stocks. With a diversified portfolio of incredible companies, these ETFs help balance risk and reward. Whether you're looking at bond funds, growth stocks, or dividend-focused funds, Vanguard has options that align with different strategies.

One standout is the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF, which focuses on companies with strong dividend histories. These investments generate income through dividends, allowing income investors to reinvest or take payouts. ETFs like this often hold successful stocks from the S&P 500, including some of the most successful stocks in the market. While no investment is without risk, Vanguard’s expert team carefully selects top holdings to ensure long-term stability. With a low expense ratio and exposure to emerging markets, these ETFs offer a potentially lucrative opportunity for those looking to grow their wealth over time.

#1. Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM)

The Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a popular choice for income investors looking to build wealth through generating passive income. This Vanguard ETF focuses on companies with a history of paying high dividends, making it a potentially lucrative opportunity for those who prefer steady income over growth stocks. With an expense ratio lower than many competing funds, VYM has attracted many investors seeking an alternative to bond funds while still maintaining exposure to some of the most successful stocks in the market. Its top seven holdings include incredible companies like JPMorgan Chase, which has long been favored by analysts for its stability and profitability.

Compared to the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF, which emphasizes dividend growth, VYM prioritizes highest yield by investing in investment-grade stocks that consistently pay out strong dividends. This makes it particularly appealing for those who want to avoid losing money in volatile markets while still benefiting from the performance of successful stocks. With a median market cap that leans toward larger, more stable companies, VYM aligns well with a diversified portfolio that includes bonds issued by reputable institutions. While it may not always keep the same pace as high-flying emerging markets, it offers a steady stream of income that appeals to long-term investors. Motley Fool Money has discussed similar Vanguard ETFs for passive income, and on rare occasions, its expert team has highlighted this ETF as a strong choice for investors seeking a reliable fund with a history of strong performance since its inception.

#2. Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ)

Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ) focuses on real estate investment trusts (REITs), which own and manage properties like apartments, malls, and office buildings. This ETF provides investors with exposure to the real estate sector without the hassle of directly buying property. Since real estate often performs differently from stocks and bonds, VNQ can help diversify a portfolio and potentially reduce risk during market downturns.

A key advantage of REITs is their high dividend payouts, as they are legally required to distribute most of their earnings to shareholders. This makes VNQ an attractive option for income-focused investors seeking steady cash flow. However, its performance is influenced by interest rates—when rates rise, real estate investments can become less appealing. Despite this, VNQ remains a popular choice for those looking to gain access to the real estate market with the liquidity of an ETF.

#3. Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG)

The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) focuses on companies with a strong history of increasing dividends over time. This makes it a solid choice for investors seeking consistent and growing income while benefiting from stable, high-quality businesses. The fund primarily includes large-cap companies with reliable earnings, reducing volatility compared to riskier dividend stocks.

VIG is ideal for those who prefer long-term stability over high-yield but uncertain payouts. Since it tracks the NASDAQ U.S. Dividend Achievers Select Index, it ensures holdings meet strict growth criteria. While not the highest-yielding dividend ETF, its focus on dividend growth provides a steady income stream that compounds over time.

#4. Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI)

The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) provides exposure to the entire U.S. stock market, including large-, mid-, and small-cap stocks. This broad diversification helps investors reduce risk while capturing the overall market's performance. VTI is a passive index fund, meaning it tracks the CRSP U.S. Total Market Index rather than relying on active management, keeping expenses low.

One of VTI’s advantages is its mix of dividend-paying stocks, offering investors a steady stream of income along with capital appreciation. Since it holds thousands of companies, it benefits from different sectors’ growth, making it a solid choice for long-term investors. With its low expense ratio and tax efficiency, VTI is an attractive option for those seeking broad market exposure.

#5. Vanguard Utilities ETF (VPU)

The Vanguard Utilities ETF (VPU) focuses on utility companies, providing investors with exposure to a sector known for stability. It includes electricity, gas, and water providers, which tend to perform well even during economic downturns. Since utilities are essential services, demand remains consistent, making VPU a defensive investment option.

A key benefit of VPU is its steady cash flow, which translates into reliable dividend payments. Utility companies typically have long-term contracts and regulated pricing, ensuring predictable revenue. This makes VPU appealing for income-focused investors looking for consistent dividends and lower volatility compared to other sectors.

Conclusion

These ETFs are great for passive income because they provide diversification, steady dividend payouts, and long-term growth potential. By investing in a mix of assets like stocks, bonds, and real estate, they reduce risk while ensuring consistent returns. Many of these funds focus on high-yield dividends, allowing investors to earn income without actively managing their portfolios. With low fees and automatic reinvestment options, they make wealth-building simple and efficient.

For beginners, it's important to research and choose ETFs that align with their financial goals and risk tolerance. Some may prefer high-dividend funds for regular income, while others might opt for growth-focused ETFs that balance dividends with capital appreciation. By understanding their investment objectives and exploring different fund options, new investors can build a strong foundation for passive income and long-term financial security.

FAQs

What is an ETF?

An ETF is a fund that holds a mix of stocks, bonds, or assets and trades like a stock.

How do ETFs generate passive income?

They pay dividends from the companies they invest in, usually every quarter.

Is investing in Vanguard ETFs risky?

Like all investments, they carry risk, but Vanguard ETFs are known for stability.