North Dakota Rig Count Holds at 35, Up 6 Over the Past Week

The number of active drilling rigs in North Dakota held steady at 35 on Sunday, October 4, 2026, according to live rig data monitored by Bakken Wire. There were no new rigs added, no rigs removed, and no rigs that moved location since yesterday's count.

The stable daily figure follows a week of notable growth in the state's drilling fleet. One week ago, on September 27, 2026, the active rig count stood at 29. This represents a net increase of six rigs over the past seven days.

Compared to one month ago, activity has shown a slight uptick. On September 4, 2026, the North Dakota rig count was 34, meaning the current level is one rig higher.

The Bakken formation, North Dakota's primary oil-producing region, requires consistent drilling to offset the steep initial decline rates of its prolific shale wells and maintain overall production. The rig count is a leading indicator of future production and capital investment by exploration and production companies operating in the Williston Basin.

A rig count in the mid-30s reflects a measured level of industry activity. Operators continue to focus on drilling efficiency, targeting the most productive core areas of the play while managing capital budgets in response to commodity price signals.

The weekly jump from 29 to 35 rigs suggests a recent surge in new spuds or the mobilization of contracted rigs to new locations, though specific operator plans were not detailed in the data. Such moves can be driven by the completion of drilling programs, new permits being activated, or adjustments to annual drilling schedules.

For royalty owners and service companies in western North Dakota, the rig count directly correlates with local economic activity, from hydraulic fracturing crews and well completion work to the demand for housing, transportation, and other support services.

Market watchers use the rig count as a gauge of industry confidence. The current level, showing weekly growth but monthly stability, indicates a steady operational tempo among Bakken producers as they head into the final quarter of 2026.