Bakken Rig Count Holds at 24 as Oil Prices Surge

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota held steady at 24, according to live Bakken data for July 13, 2026. This level of activity, coupled with a significant surge in oil prices, sets the current backdrop for workforce and community dynamics in the Williston Basin.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude closed at $74.85, a gain of $3.44 or 4.82% for the day. Brent crude rose to $79.69. The Bakken crude differential was -$3.42 per barrel versus WTI. Natural gas was priced at $2.9.

In the Bakken region, the direct oilfield workforce—including rig crews, frac hands, and field operators—is closely tied to the active rig count. A count of 24 rigs represents a stabilized, moderate level of drilling activity compared to the boom peaks of the past decade. This suggests employment in the core extraction sector is likely consistent, without the rapid hiring or layoffs seen during more volatile periods.

General industry context indicates that sustained drilling activity supports ancillary service companies, trucking firms, and supply stores, providing a base level of economic activity for local communities. Housing demand, which experienced extreme pressure during previous booms, is less likely to see sharp price fluctuations at this rig level. Municipal budgets in oil-producing counties, which rely heavily on extraction and production taxes, benefit from the combination of steady drilling and the current higher price environment, which boosts the value of each barrel produced.

The day's sharp rise in oil prices, if sustained, could improve operator cash flow and margins, particularly with the Bakken differential remaining relatively narrow. This improved economics can influence future capital spending decisions. However, workforce expansion typically lags behind price increases, as companies require sustained price signals before committing to significant new drilling campaigns that would require hiring.

For now, the stable rig count points to a period of equilibrium for Bakken workforce and community conditions. Local economies are supported by existing activity without the disruptive strain of a rapid scale-up. Royalty owners benefit from the higher per-barreal prices, which increase monthly income checks from production on their land.