North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 33 for Fourth Straight Week

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota held steady at 33 on Friday, September 18, 2026, according to live rig data from Bakken Wire. No rigs were added or removed, and none moved locations from the previous day.

The current count represents no change from the 33 rigs reported in the state a month ago on August 19. However, compared to one week prior, the rig count is down by one unit. On September 11, Bakken Wire reported 34 rigs active in the Williston Basin.

A rig count of 33 places Bakken activity at a level typical for the region in recent periods, reflecting a consistent operational tempo among major operators. This stability in the drilling fleet often correlates with steady crude oil production volumes from the formation, which is North Dakota's primary oil-producing region.

The flat week-over-week and month-over-month trends suggest a period of consolidation in drilling plans following a slight dip earlier in September. Operators typically adjust rig deployment based on commodity price signals, operational efficiency targets, and long-term development strategies for their acreage.

The rig count is a leading indicator of future oil production and a closely watched metric for service company activity, employment, and regional economic health. A sustained count in the low-to-mid 30s indicates a focused, capital-disciplined approach by producers working in the Bakken and Three Forks formations.

Market observers will monitor whether the count remains at this plateau or sees movement in the coming weeks as companies finalize fourth-quarter capital budgets. Any significant shift could signal changing confidence in the oil price outlook or adjustments to production guidance.