The U.S. Baker Hughes Total Rig Count rose to 595, up from the previous reading of 591, according to the latest data updated on 18 September 2026. The four-rig increase points to a modest expansion in U.S. drilling activity.
While the gain is incremental, changes in the rig count are closely watched by energy and financial markets as a timely gauge of upstream investment and potential future oil and gas supply. The move from 591 to 595 suggests operators are cautiously adding capacity, reflecting evolving expectations around energy demand, prices and broader economic conditions in the United States.
