Patterson-UTI September U.S. Drilling Rigs Average 103
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During September 2026, Patterson-UTI Energy operated an average of 103 drilling rigs in the United States, maintaining contracted activity above second-quarter figures.
For the third quarter concluding September 30, the company averaged 101 active U.S. rigs, marking an increase from 92 in the prior quarter. This performance aligned with company expectations, which had forecasted an average of roughly 100 operating rigs for Q3 following rising demand and improved pricing on new drilling contracts secured during Q2.
Patterson-UTI classifies operating rigs as those actively generating revenue under domestic contracts, noting that shifts in rig counts do not directly translate to changes in financial results.
Headquartered in Houston, Patterson-UTI offers contract drilling, directional drilling, well completion services, and specialized drilling products to both domestic and global oil and gas markets. The firm intends to maintain its regular monthly reporting of average U.S. rig counts.
