Bakken Rig Count Holds Steady at 26

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota's Bakken formation held steady at 26 on Friday, July 17, 2026, according to live data from Bakken Wire.

No new rigs were added, none were removed, and none moved locations since the previous day's count. The stable daily figure comes amid a period of modest fluctuation for the state's drilling activity.

Compared to one week ago, on July 10, the current count represents a net increase of three rigs. However, the count is down by one rig from the level seen one month ago on June 17, when 27 rigs were active.

The rig count is a closely watched leading indicator for future oil production in the Williston Basin. The current level suggests operators are maintaining a measured pace of development. A count in the mid-20s has been typical for the region in recent years, reflecting a focus on capital discipline and efficiency gains over the aggressive expansion seen in previous boom cycles.

For royalty owners and service companies, a stable rig count implies consistent near-term demand for drilling, completion, and well servicing work. The slight weekly increase may signal a minor uptick in operator confidence or the execution of previously scheduled drilling programs.

The Bakken formation remains North Dakota's primary oil-producing region, and the pace of drilling directly influences the state's crude output and tax revenue. With no day-over-day change, the industry appears to be in a holding pattern, balancing operational plans against commodity price signals and economic conditions.