The average stock in the S 500 has delivered a 7.7% average annual total return over the last 50 years. There's nothing wrong with being average. If someone starts investing $250 a month right after graduating college, they will become a millionaire by the time they retire at 65.

However, you could have an above-average retirement by investing in stocks that produce higher total returns. You also don't have to take on a lot of risk to earn a higher return. Boring stocks like water utility American Water Works (NYSE: AWK), infrastructure operator Brookfield Infrastructure (NYSE: BIPC)(NYSE: BIP), and commercial real estate owner Realty Income (NYSE: O) have produced above-average total returns over the years.

While their business models are real yawners, the trio is in an excellent position to continue delivering strong returns in the future. That could enable their investors to enjoy a better retirement.

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Source Fool.com