The US rig count rose by 5 to 603 in the Oct. 9 report from Baker Hughes, the highest total of 2026. It is the first count of at least 600 rigs since May 2024, more than two years ago.
The national figure is up 56 rigs, or 10.24 percent, from 547 a year earlier. The count began the year at 545.
Permian reaches 274 rigs
The Permian Basin added 4 rigs to reach 274 active drilling rigs, also its highest level of 2026. That is up 24, or 9.60 percent, from 250 a year ago, and up from 247 at the start of the year.
The basin has now posted 11 straight weeks of increased or flat rig counts. Its last decline came on July 24.
We reported earlier that the US rig count fell to 588 even as Permian and Texas rigs climbed.
Other regions and states
Among regions, Haynesville rose by 1 to 57 rigs, widening its lead over Eagle Ford at 49. Williston stands at 35 and Marcellus at 23.
Among states, Oklahoma fell by 1 to 51 and holds third place. Louisiana is next after adding 2 rigs to reach 38, followed by North Dakota at 31.
| Measure | Latest count | Change on week | Year ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 603 | +5 | 547 |
| Permian | 274 | +4 | 250 |
| Haynesville | 57 | +1 | n/a |
| Oklahoma | 51 | -1 | n/a |
| Louisiana | 38 | +2 | n/a |
