OilPrice · February 13, 2026 · 1 min read

U.S. Rig Count Holds Steady as Oil Drilling Slips and Gas Activity Climbs

Analysis

OilCyprus Editorial

The U.S. total rig count remained unchanged this week at 551, according to Baker Hughes, but is down 37 rigs year-over-year. Oil rigs decreased while gas rigs increased, indicating a potential shift in drilling focus.

Key Facts

Total U.S. rig count held steady at 551.
Total rig count is down 37 rigs compared to the same time last year.
Oil rigs decreased, while gas rigs increased.

Market Impact

The shift from oil to gas drilling could reflect changing market dynamics, including natural gas demand and pricing. The overall decline in rig count year-over-year suggests a cautious approach to drilling investments, potentially due to concerns about future oil prices, regulatory uncertainty, or capital discipline.

Why This Matters

This data provides insights into current drilling activity and potential shifts in production strategies, which are crucial for understanding future energy supply and market trends.

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