The oil and gas industry in the US is a vital sector that focuses on the exploration, extraction, refining, and marketing of petroleum products and natural gas. It consists of large multinational corporations, independent firms, and various suppliers that all play significant roles. As global energy demands evolve, there is growing emphasis on sustainable and renewable practices amidst fluctuating prices. Major advancements in technology, particularly in drilling techniques and data analytics, are reshaping how companies operate. Moreover, the sector is continuously seeking innovative solutions to address environmental concerns while maintaining efficiency and profitability.

This list showcases 25 prominent oil and gas companies based in the United States, varying in size and specialization. Majorities, including both publicly traded firms and private partnerships, are primarily centered in Texas and California. Founded between the 1930s and 2020, these companies engage in various activities from exploration to refining, with diverse operational models from independent producers to subsidiaries of energy conglomerates. They collectively employ thousands, driving performance in the competitive energy market.

Continue reading to discover the top oil and gas companies in the US.

Top 15 Oil And Gas Companies Companies in the US

1. Aera Energy LLC

• Website: aeraenergy.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Bakersfield, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: $2.1B, February 2024
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: aera-energy-llc

Aera Energy LLC, founded in 1997 and based in Bakersfield, California, is an energy company focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production. With a workforce of approximately 648 employees, Aera plays a crucial role in supplying energy resources to both individuals and businesses across California. The company operates primarily in Kern, Fresno, Monterey, and Ventura counties, which are key areas for oil production in the state. Aera is not only dedicated to meeting current energy needs but also invests in lower carbon energy solutions, showcasing its commitment to responsible energy practices. Recently, Aera Energy became a subsidiary of California Resources Corporation, further solidifying its position in the industry. The company is also active in community support, contributing to various local initiatives and promoting environmental responsibility through its Carbon Journey program.

2. Hunt Oil Company

• Website: huntoil.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $1.0B, May 2021
• Founded year: 1934
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hunt-oil-company

Hunt Oil Company, founded in 1934 and based in Dallas, Texas, is a privately held oil and gas exploration and production firm. With a workforce of approximately 841 employees, the company has established itself as a significant entity in the energy sector. Hunt Oil operates globally, focusing on the extraction and processing of petroleum resources. Their operations span across the United States and internationally, where they engage in traditional exploration, unconventional resource plays, and complex pipeline and processing operations. Notably, Hunt Oil is involved in two major LNG projects, positioning itself as a key player in the natural gas market. The company has drilled wells on every continent except Antarctica, showcasing its extensive reach and operational capabilities. Hunt Oil's commitment to innovation and operational efficiency has allowed it to thrive in various environments, making it a noteworthy participant in the oil and gas industry.

3. Hilcorp

• Website: hilcorp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hilcorp

Hilcorp Energy Company, based in Houston, Texas, specializes in oil and natural gas exploration and production. Founded in 1989, the company has grown to become one of the largest privately held independent exploration and production firms in the United States. Hilcorp operates in several states, including Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wyoming. The company is known for its commitment to safe and responsible operations, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while maximizing production efficiency. Hilcorp has a reputation for acquiring and revitalizing legacy oil and gas assets, employing innovative solutions to enhance productivity and reduce emissions. Their corporate responsibility initiatives reflect a dedication to community engagement and environmental stewardship, further solidifying their role in the energy sector.

4. SAVIA Perú

• Website: saviaperu.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Peru 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: savia-peru

SAVIA Perú is a private hydrocarbon exploration company established in 2009, operating exclusively offshore in Peru. The company specializes in the exploration, development, production, and processing of hydrocarbons, primarily in the Z-2B block, which has been in production since its acquisition. With a workforce of approximately 285 employees, SAVIA is dedicated to maintaining high standards of environmental sustainability and safety in its operations. The company has a strong focus on community engagement and social responsibility, implementing various programs to support local communities in the regions where it operates. As the only offshore operator in Peru, SAVIA plays a crucial role in the country's energy sector, contributing to energy security and economic growth. The company is committed to adhering to international standards in health, safety, and environmental management, ensuring that its operations minimize impact on the environment while maximizing efficiency and productivity.

5. MII Oil Holding Inc

• Website: mii-holding.org
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Tallahassee, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Australia 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: mii-oil-holding-inc

MII Oil Holding Inc, based in Tallahassee, Florida, is a private oil and gas company that specializes in the exploration and production of oil and gas resources. Established in 2011, the company has a history in the energy sector that dates back to 1982. MII Oil Holding Inc operates globally, with a significant focus on maximizing production potential in various regions, including the Caspian Sea, Middle East, Africa, and South America. The company is also involved in geothermal energy solutions, aiming to develop clean energy initiatives alongside traditional oil and gas operations. MII has produced approximately 4.9 million barrels of oil and 12 billion cubic feet of gas, showcasing its operational capabilities. The company is recognized by the United Nations as a supplier, further solidifying its credibility in the industry. MII Oil Holding Inc is committed to limiting technical and political risks by focusing on projects that have been initiated but not fully developed, and it seeks to align its interests with stable governments and joint venture partners.

6. EnerVest, Ltd.

• Website: enervest.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: enervest-ltd-

EnerVest, Ltd. is a private oil and gas operator based in Houston, Texas, founded in 1992. The company specializes in the extraction and management of oil and natural gas assets, serving institutional investors and partners. EnerVest operates thousands of wells across North America, particularly in Texas and Virginia, and is recognized for its focus on operational efficiencies and advanced technologies aimed at optimizing production. The company employs a workforce of approximately 462 individuals, including engineers, geologists, and field personnel, who work collaboratively to enhance production capabilities. EnerVest has a strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, investing in initiatives that ensure the well-being of its employees and the communities in which it operates. With a history of adapting to market cycles and a focus on cost reduction, EnerVest continues to be a significant player in the oil and gas industry, providing reliable returns for its partners.

7. Continental Resources

• Website: clr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: continental-resources_2

Continental Resources, founded in 1967 and based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is an oil and gas company that specializes in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. The company is recognized as a top independent oil producer in the United States, with a strong presence in the Bakken play of North Dakota and Montana, as well as significant operations in the Anadarko Basin of Oklahoma and newly acquired positions in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming and the Permian Basin of Texas. Continental Resources employs advanced technologies, such as horizontal drilling and well stimulation, to efficiently extract resources from various basins. The company is committed to environmental stewardship and community involvement, focusing on health, education, and industry advocacy. With a workforce of approximately 1,448 employees, Continental Resources continues to play a vital role in meeting the growing energy demands of the market.

8. Standard Oil Company

• Website: standardoilusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 61%, Brazil 20%, Romania 20%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: standard-oil-company

Standard Oil Company USA, founded in 2000 and based in Dallas, Texas, is an energy company that specializes in oil and gas operations. The firm provides a range of services, including oil refining, shipping, and offshore projects, catering to businesses and organizations that require energy solutions. With a commitment to sustainability, Standard Oil Company is focused on addressing the increasing energy demands of society while investing in low carbon technologies. The company operates primarily in the United States, with a workforce that also extends to Brazil and Romania. Its projects, such as Florida's Oil Prospect, highlight its involvement in the oil sector, aiming to enhance value for partners through direct engagement in oil and gas ventures. The company has not reported any funding, indicating it operates independently without external financial backing.

9. Ecopetrol USA Inc.

• Website: ecopetrol-usa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ecopetrol-usa-inc

Ecopetrol USA Inc. is an oil and gas company based in Houston, Texas, established in 2020. As a subsidiary of Ecopetrol S.A., the national oil company of Colombia, it plays a significant role in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons in the Permian Basin and the Gulf of Mexico. The company is involved in trading activities, dealing with crude oil, refined products, and natural gas, primarily serving businesses in the energy sector. Ecopetrol USA Inc. operates through its subsidiaries, including Ecopetrol Permian LLC and Ecopetrol America LLC, which focus on specific regions and markets. The company is committed to contributing to the corporate goals set by the Ecopetrol Business Group, aiming for sustainable growth and operational excellence in the energy sector.

10. Chem-Energy Corporation

• Website: chem-energy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Garden Grove, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 33%, Nigeria 33%, China 33%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: chem-energy-corporation

Chem-Energy Corporation, founded in 1990 and based in Garden Grove, California, is a private company engaged in the trading of petroleum products and the refining of crude oil. The company specializes in developing energy projects and offers a range of services that include the supply of gasoline, diesel, and various petrochemicals. Chem-Energy also provides consulting services for project management in the energy sector, catering to clients in the energy and transportation industries. With a workforce that spans the United States, Nigeria, and China, the company has established a significant international footprint. Chem-Energy is involved in the exploration and operation of oil and gas production, and they manage oil terminals and vessels for transporting crude oil and refined products. Their projects reportedly produce over 250,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, highlighting their operational capacity in the industry.

11. Hunt Oil Company

• Website: huntenergy.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 67%, Peru 13%, Iraq 13%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: $2.5M, April 2021
• Founded year: 1934
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hunt-oil-company

Hunt Oil Company, based in Dallas, Texas, is an energy firm that operates primarily in the oil and gas sector, while also engaging in electric power activities. Founded in 1934, the company has built a reputation for its operational capabilities and cost-effective solutions. Hunt Oil's portfolio includes domestic and international operations, with a focus on refining and marketing petroleum products. Their subsidiary, Hunt Refining Company, processes and markets a variety of finished products, including transportation fuels and asphalt, primarily in the southeastern United States. The company also has a presence in international markets, including Peru, Iraq, and Romania. In addition to traditional oil and gas activities, Hunt Oil is involved in innovative energy solutions, such as distributed energy resources and technology development. They have received funding, with a notable amount of $2.5 million reported in 2021, which supports their ongoing initiatives in energy technology and sustainability.

12. Apex International Energy

• Website: apexintl.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Egypt 78%, United States (USA) 22%
• Latest funding: February 2025
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: apex-international-energy

Apex International Energy is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company based in Houston, Texas, with a strong operational focus in Egypt. Founded in 2016, the company has rapidly grown its presence in the upstream sector, particularly in the Western Desert, where it has secured multiple exploration and production concessions. Apex commenced its first production in August 2021 from the Southeast Meleiha concession and has since expanded its operations to include several development leases. The company is recognized for its effective management team, which has extensive experience in building oil and gas businesses in Egypt. Apex aims to enhance its production capabilities through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, positioning itself as a significant player in the Egyptian oil and gas market.

13. Cantium

• Website: cantium.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Covington, Louisiana, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2019
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cantium

Cantium LLC, based in Covington, Louisiana, is an independent oil and gas company that specializes in exploration and production activities in the Gulf of Mexico. Founded in 2017, Cantium has quickly positioned itself as a significant player in the region by acquiring key assets, including the Bay Marchand and Main Pass fields, which are among the largest oil and gas fields in the Gulf. The company operates 65 blocks and has a strong focus on maximizing production efficiency while ensuring safety and environmental compliance. With a dedicated team of experienced professionals, Cantium employs advanced technology and data analytics to optimize operations and identify growth opportunities. Their commitment to operational excellence and sustainability is evident in their safety metrics and environmental practices, making them a noteworthy entity in the oil and gas sector.

14. Ridgewood Energy

• Website: ridgewoodenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Montvale, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Egypt 10%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ridgewood-energy

Ridgewood Energy, founded in 1982 and based in Montvale, New Jersey, is a private equity firm that concentrates on investments in the U.S. oil and gas sector, with a particular emphasis on the Deepwater Gulf of Mexico. The firm aims to generate high-value production through its projects, which are designed to deliver some of the lowest-cost oil and gas in North America. Ridgewood Energy's approach is informed by a commitment to environmental considerations, as they focus on producing energy resources with a lower carbon footprint. Their team employs advanced technology and industry expertise to execute their investment strategy effectively. With a workforce primarily located in the United States, Ridgewood Energy plays a vital role in providing essential energy resources for various sectors, including transportation and manufacturing.

15. XTO Energy

• Website: xtoenergy.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Midland, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: $41.0B, December 2009
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: xto-energy

XTO Energy Inc. is an energy company based in Midland, Texas, specializing in the production, processing, and transportation of oil and natural gas. Founded in 1986, the company has grown to employ approximately 2,300 people and operates primarily in the United States, with a small presence in Argentina. As a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, XTO Energy plays a crucial role in the development of unconventional resources, utilizing advanced technologies to enhance production efficiency. The company holds interests in over 50,000 producing oil and natural gas wells and manages more than 9.5 million acres across various regions, including the Permian Basin, Bakken, and Appalachia. XTO Energy is also committed to addressing environmental concerns, particularly methane emissions, and actively engages with the communities in which it operates.

Oil And Gas Companies Insights: Key Companies in the US

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Aera Energy LLC	Bakersfield, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1997	Corporate
Hunt Oil Company	Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1934	Corporate
Hilcorp	Houston, Texas, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1989	Private
SAVIA Perú	United States (USA)	201-500	2009	Private
MII Oil Holding Inc	Tallahassee, Florida, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2011	Private
EnerVest, Ltd.	Houston, Texas, United States (USA)	201-500	1992	Private
Continental Resources	Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1967	Private
Standard Oil Company	Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)	1-10	2000	Private
Ecopetrol USA Inc.	Houston, Texas, United States (USA)	11-50	2020	Private
Chem-Energy Corporation	Garden Grove, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1990	Private
Hunt Oil Company	Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1934	Venture Capital
Apex International Energy	Houston, Texas, United States (USA)	201-500	2016	Corporate
Cantium	Covington, Louisiana, United States (USA)	51-200	2017	Private
Ridgewood Energy	Montvale, New Jersey, United States (USA)	51-200	1982	Private
XTO Energy	Midland, Texas, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1986	Corporate

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