: Operating primarily in the Bakken shale, Hess Midstream is notable for having never cut its distribution since going public. Analysts have recently increased earnings estimates for the partnership, which offers a yield of roughly 6.3%. MLP Market Performance Overview

: Investors who want exposure to these yields without the K-1 paperwork often use funds like the Alerian MLP ETF (AMLP) . These ETFs issue a standard 1099-DIV and can be held in IRAs without UBTI concerns. Enterprise Products

: Offering one of the highest yields among large-caps, Energy Transfer operates an extensive midstream network across North America. It is in its strongest financial position ever, with a leverage ratio at the low end of its target and enough cash to cover distributions by nearly 1.8 times.

The following selections represent the "best-in-class" based on distribution yield, financial stability, and growth prospects as of late April 2026.

: Primarily focused on the Delaware and DJ Basins, Western Midstream has significantly improved its balance sheet, earning a BBB- credit rating. It offers a high yield (approximately 9%) and is expanding into the produced water business for additional growth.

: Holding direct MLPs in a tax-advantaged account like an IRA can trigger Unrelated Business Taxable Income (UBTI) , which may be taxable even within the retirement account if it exceeds $1,000.

: Widely considered the highest-quality MLP, Enterprise has a massive integrated network and has increased its distribution for 27 consecutive years. It carries a rare A- credit rating and generates stable, fee-based cash flow that is largely insulated from commodity price swings.