The oil and gas industry in Texas is a vital sector of the economy, encompassing production, refining, and distribution of hydrocarbons. Companies range from large corporations to smaller independent firms, each playing a significant role in energy supply both domestically and internationally. Texas is a major hub for oil and gas exploration, driven by advancements in technology and sustainability practices. As the industry navigates the transition towards cleaner energy sources, businesses are increasingly investing in innovation and efficiency. In 2023, Texas remains a top destination for oil and gas investment, significantly impacting global energy dynamics.

This listing showcases 21 prominent oil and gas companies in Texas, primarily headquartered in cities like Dallas, Houston, and Midland. Operating sizes range from small teams to large enterprises, employing hundreds to thousands of professionals. Founded between 1934 and 2020, these firms specialize in various aspects of the industry, including exploration, production, and refining. Notably, many companies emphasize environmental responsibility and social impact, striving to balance profitability with sustainable practices, particularly in regions like the Gulf of Mexico and the Permian Basin.

Read on to discover key insights about Texas's top oil and gas companies.

Top 21 Oil And Gas Companies in Texas

1. 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 operations spanning North America, South America, Europe, and the Middle East, the company has drilled wells on every continent except Antarctica. Hunt Oil specializes in traditional exploration, unconventional resource plays, and complex pipeline and processing operations. Notably, it is one of the few independent companies with significant LNG projects, including the PERU LNG project in Peru and a stake in the Yemen LNG project. The company prides itself on its innovative approaches and operational efficiency, which have been key to its success in various challenging environments. Hunt Oil actively seeks strategic acquisitions and partnerships to enhance its portfolio and expand its operational footprint.

2. 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 the exploration and production of oil and natural gas. Since its inception in 1989, Hilcorp has grown to become one of the largest privately held independent energy companies in the United States. The company operates in several states, including Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wyoming. Hilcorp is known for its commitment to efficient energy production and minimizing environmental impact. The company actively engages with local communities and emphasizes corporate responsibility, focusing on environmental stewardship and community impact. Hilcorp has a reputation for acquiring and revitalizing legacy oil and gas assets, employing innovative solutions to enhance production and reduce emissions. Their operational strategy includes modernizing infrastructure and optimizing systems to ensure sustainable practices in energy production.

3. 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., founded in 1992 and based in Houston, Texas, is an oil and gas operator that specializes in the extraction and management of oil and natural gas assets. The company operates thousands of wells across North America, particularly in Texas and Virginia, and is dedicated to optimizing production through operational efficiencies and advanced technologies. EnerVest serves institutional investors and partners, focusing on delivering lower operational costs and steady returns. The company has a strong emphasis on safety and environmental responsibility, actively participating in industry organizations and community initiatives. EnerVest's operational model includes managing a variety of well types, from conventional to unconventional, showcasing its adaptability and expertise in the field.

4. 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 is an energy firm based in Dallas, Texas, specializing in oil and gas operations. Founded in 2000, the company provides a range of services including oil refining, shipping, and offshore projects. It caters to businesses and organizations seeking energy solutions, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and responsible energy practices. The company operates with a focus on meeting the increasing energy demands of society while investing in low carbon technologies. With a workforce of 61 employees, Standard Oil Company has a notable presence in the United States, Brazil, and Romania, reflecting its operational reach. The firm aims to enhance value for its partners through direct involvement in oil and gas projects, offering potential cash flow improvements and tax advantages linked to these ventures.

5. 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, has been a notable entity in the energy sector since its inception in 1934. The company operates across various segments of the oil and gas industry, including domestic and international operations, refining, and marketing of petroleum products. Hunt Refining Company, a subsidiary, focuses on processing and marketing transportation fuels and asphalt products primarily in the southeastern United States. Furthermore, Hunt Oil has expanded its reach into international markets, with operations in countries such as Peru, Iraq, and Romania. The company is also involved in the electric power sector, providing innovative solutions through its Hunt Energy Network and Hunt Utility Services. Recently, Hunt Oil secured $2.5 million in funding, which underscores its ongoing commitment to innovation and development in energy technologies. This blend of traditional oil and gas operations with a focus on sustainable practices positions Hunt Oil as a relevant player in the energy industry.

6. 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 crucial role in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons, particularly 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, thereby serving various businesses in the energy sector. Ecopetrol USA Inc. operates through its subsidiaries, including Ecopetrol Permian LLC and Ecopetrol America LLC, which focus on specific geographic areas and operational strategies. The company aims to contribute to the corporate goals set by the Ecopetrol Business Group, emphasizing sustainable practices and strategic growth in the energy market.

7. 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 across the U.S. and manages a substantial resource base of approximately 18.5 billion oil equivalent barrels. XTO Energy is particularly active in the Permian Basin, Bakken, and Appalachian regions, demonstrating its operational breadth and commitment to community engagement and environmental responsibility.

8. 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 expanded its footprint in the Western Desert, where it engages in upstream activities such as oil and gas exploration and hydrocarbon production. Apex's operations are characterized by a commitment to growth through both organic development and strategic acquisitions. The company has made notable progress since its first oil discovery in 2021, achieving a production rate of approximately 12,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) as of January 2024. Apex operates multiple development leases and has a robust drilling program aimed at enhancing production and exploring new opportunities. Their joint venture with the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation, known as PetroFarah, further underscores their active role in the local energy sector. Apex is also recognized for its social responsibility initiatives, contributing to community development and healthcare in the regions where it operates.

9. Caelus Energy

• Website: caelusenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 40%, Indonesia 40%, Belgium 21%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: caelus-energy

Caelus Energy LLC is an oil and gas exploration and production company headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Established in 2011, Caelus Energy is dedicated to the responsible exploration and production of oil and gas resources. The company serves various businesses in the energy sector, providing essential resources while maintaining a commitment to sustainable practices. Under the leadership of founder and CEO Jim Musselman, Caelus has successfully developed projects across multiple continents, with a notable focus on the North Slope of Alaska, where they have confirmed large-scale discoveries. The company operates with a workforce that is distributed across the United States, Indonesia, and Belgium, reflecting its international reach and operational capabilities.

10. Cholla Inc.

• Website: chollapetro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1957
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cholla-petroleum-inc-

Cholla Inc. is an energy company based in Dallas, Texas, with a focus on petroleum exploration, energy innovation, and investment in energy technologies. Founded in 1957, the company operates through three main divisions: Cholla Petroleum, which is dedicated to the exploration and production of oil and gas resources; Cholla Energy, which emphasizes innovative energy solutions for large power consumers; and Cholla Ventures, which invests in emerging energy technologies and entrepreneurs. Cholla Petroleum has a rich history of developing oil and gas resources, and the company is committed to ensuring reliable and affordable energy for its clients. With a workforce of around 61 employees, Cholla Inc. remains a significant player in the energy sector, particularly in Texas, where it has established a strong operational presence.

11. Hunt Consolidated, Inc.

• Website: huntconsolidated.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hunt-consolidated-inc.

Hunt Consolidated, Inc. is a family-owned holding company based in Dallas, Texas, founded in 1980. It operates primarily in the energy sector, with a strong focus on oil and gas exploration and production. The company is known for its subsidiaries, such as Hunt Oil Company, which is recognized for its exploration and production activities, and Hunt Refining Company, which specializes in petroleum refining and marketing. Hunt Consolidated also engages in liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, making it one of the few independent companies with a significant presence in this area. Beyond energy, the company has interests in real estate, investments, and ranching, showcasing its multifaceted approach to business. Hunt's operations are characterized by a commitment to quality and efficiency, and it has established joint ventures with some of the largest companies in the industry, reflecting its operational expertise and market relevance.

12. Endeavor Energy Resources, LP

• Website: endeavorenergylp.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Midland, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: $26.0B, February 2024
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: endeavor-energy-resources-lp

Endeavor Energy Resources, LP is a privately-held oil and gas company based in Midland, Texas. Established in 1979, the firm specializes in hydrocarbon exploration and production, primarily operating in the Midland Basin. With a workforce of over 1,200 employees, Endeavor has built a robust operational presence, holding around 470,000 net acres across multiple basins. The company has shifted its focus to horizontal drilling, which has significantly increased its production capabilities, now exceeding 400,000 gross operated barrels of oil equivalent per day. Endeavor is recognized for its commitment to community service, actively participating in local initiatives and supporting charitable causes. This engagement reflects its dedication to the areas where it operates, further solidifying its role in the industry.

13. EnVen Energy Ventures

• Website: enven.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $1.1B, September 2022
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: enven-energy-ventures-llc

EnVen Energy Ventures is an energy company based in Houston, Texas, established in 2014. The firm specializes in operated deepwater exploration and production in the Gulf of Mexico, alongside managing international and midstream assets. With a workforce of around 65 employees, EnVen plays a crucial role in the energy sector by providing essential services that support the exploration and production of oil and gas resources. The company has recently attracted significant investment, securing $1.1 billion in funding in September 2022, which underscores its active engagement and potential for growth in the industry.

14. Libyan National Oil Corporation - Houston

• Website: lnoc-us.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, Libya 50%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: libyan-national-oil-corporation-houston-branch

The Libyan National Oil Corporation - Houston (LNOC) is a private oil and gas company founded in 2018, operating as the first international branch of Libya's National Oil Corporation. With a workforce split between the United States and Libya, LNOC is dedicated to enhancing the oil and gas sector in Libya through various initiatives. The company focuses on exploration, production, and refining of oil and gas resources, while also providing procurement and engineering services. Additionally, LNOC is committed to technical training aimed at developing local expertise in the energy sector. The Houston office serves as a vital hub for procurement and engineering, facilitating partnerships with international oil companies interested in Libya's energy market. The company is currently involved in a significant procurement drive, aiming to invest around USD 60 billion to upgrade Libya's oil and gas infrastructure, with a goal of increasing production capacity significantly by 2023.

15. HEYCO Energy Group

• Website: heycoenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Dallas, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, Spain 35%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: heyco-energy-group

HEYCO Energy Group is a privately owned energy company based in Dallas, Texas, with a focus on oil and gas exploration and production. Established in 1969, the company has built a reputation for its strategic investments and technical expertise in enhancing energy resources. HEYCO operates in the United States and Europe, with significant activities in New Mexico, East Texas, Wyoming, and Louisiana. The company has a notable presence in Spain, where it operates a natural gas field in the La Rioja region. Recently, HEYCO expanded its portfolio by acquiring Egdon Resources, a UK-based exploration and production company, which further solidifies its footprint in the European market. The firm emphasizes innovative solutions and sustainable practices, aiming to contribute positively to the energy sector while maintaining a commitment to environmental responsibility.

16. Maverick Natural Resources

• Website: mavresources.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $1.3B, January 2025
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: maverick-natural-resources-llc

Maverick Natural Resources is an oil and gas company based in Houston, Texas, specializing in the production of oil and natural gas. Founded in 2018, the company has quickly positioned itself within the industry, focusing on responsible energy production. Maverick operates primarily in Texas and Oklahoma, tapping into hydrocarbon-rich plays such as the Western Anadarko and Permian basins. The company emphasizes sustainability and has made notable strides in reducing its environmental impact, achieving a 46% reduction in operational greenhouse gas emissions since its founding. With a workforce of approximately 231 employees, Maverick is committed to safety, having recorded over 2 million consecutive employee man-hours without an OSHA recordable injury. Their operational success is reflected in their reported daily production of 77 MBoe/d and a pro forma adjusted EBITDA of $684 million for 2021, showcasing their financial viability and growth potential.

17. Arena Energy, LLC

• Website: arenaenergy.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: The Woodlands, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2020
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: arena-energy-lp

Arena Energy, LLC is an oil and gas exploration company based in The Woodlands, Texas, specializing in offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Founded in 1999, the company has built a reputation for identifying and developing oil and gas reserves through advanced technology and expert knowledge. Arena Energy operates primarily in the Gulf of Mexico Shelf, focusing on lower-risk exploration and production opportunities that remain after decades of drilling by larger companies. With over 350 drill wells and a production rate exceeding 30,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, Arena Energy has demonstrated its capability in the sector. The company is internally owned, with a workforce that includes geologists, geophysicists, and engineers who are incentivized through equity participation in projects. This structure fosters a culture of ownership and accountability, driving the company’s success in a challenging industry. Arena Energy has also made significant capital investments, totaling over $4.5 billion, funded entirely through cash flow generated from its operations. Their commitment to community engagement and environmental responsibility further underscores their role in the oil and gas sector.

18. XCL Resources I, LLC

• Website: xclresources.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: January 2018
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: xcl-resources

XCL Resources I, LLC is an oil and gas company based in Houston, Texas, with a focus on maximizing the potential of the Uinta Basin. Founded in 2018, the company specializes in oil production and employs advanced drilling technologies to enhance efficiency and output. XCL is dedicated to environmental sustainability, implementing practices that reduce emissions and promote responsible resource management. Their operations are characterized by a commitment to safety, ensuring that all activities meet high standards to protect employees and the surrounding communities. XCL Resources primarily serves businesses in the energy sector that require high-quality crude oil, leveraging their strategic position in the Uinta Basin, which is recognized for its yield of waxy crude oil and favorable geological characteristics.

19. Americo Energy Resources

• Website: americoenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: americo-energy-resources

Americo Energy Resources, based in Houston, Texas, is a privately held oil and gas exploration and production company founded in 1998. The firm specializes in acquiring, operating, and developing oil and gas properties, primarily in Texas and New Mexico. With a dedicated team of professionals, Americo employs its expertise in geosciences, engineering, and management to enhance production efficiency and control costs. The company has successfully operated an increasing number of oil and gas properties, achieving a net cash flow that has more than doubled each year. Currently, Americo produces around 1300 barrels of oil equivalent per day, with oil accounting for 90% of its production. Their operations include revitalizing non-producing assets and enhancing surface facilities, showcasing their proactive approach to maximizing resource potential.

20. Arena Offshore, LP

• Website: arenaoffshore.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: The Woodlands, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: arena-offshore-lp

Arena Offshore, LP, founded in 2002 and based in The Woodlands, Texas, is an oil and gas operator specializing in offshore drilling and production in the Gulf of Mexico. The company operates more than 30 offshore fields, managing over 120 platforms and 300 producing wells. Arena Offshore is dedicated to efficient extraction and midstream transportation of crude oil and natural gas, providing essential services to exploration and production companies. Their operational capabilities include drilling 20-30 wells annually, with a gross production of approximately 50,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. The firm emphasizes safety and environmental stewardship, maintaining a strong compliance record with incidents of noncompliance significantly lower than the industry average. Arena Offshore collaborates closely with its affiliate, Arena Energy, and has a network of partnerships that enhance its operational effectiveness.

21. Lewis Energy Group

• Website: lewisenergy.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Colombia 14%
• Latest funding: $100.0M, August 2023
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: lewis-energy-group

Lewis Energy Group, founded in 1983 and based in San Antonio, Texas, specializes in natural gas exploration and production. With a workforce of over 700 employees, the company operates primarily in South Texas, focusing on the Eagle Ford and Austin Chalk plays. Lewis Energy has a robust portfolio, managing more than 2,500 wells and thousands of additional drilling locations. Their operations extend beyond upstream activities to include oilfield services and midstream gathering, showcasing a comprehensive approach to energy production. The company is also involved in community support, emphasizing responsible land stewardship and partnerships with local organizations. In August 2023, Lewis Energy secured $100 million in funding, reflecting its ongoing commitment to growth and innovation in the energy sector.

Oil And Gas Insights: Key Companies in Texas

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