In-N-Out's CEO Lynsi Snyder is quitting California — says it's 'not easy' running a family or business there. Here's why she’s bringing the cult burger chain east with her

While California will remain the heart of operations, the company is building a second headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee, set to open next year.

“Most of our stores are still going to be here in California, but it will be wonderful having an office out there, growing out there,” Snyder said in a recent interview on the Relatable podcast.

Palm trees don’t pay the bills

In-N-Out may be expanding, but the move to Tennessee is less about abandoning California and more about adapting to a changing business climate. While the company promises its California roots run deep, plans are already in place to phase out its Irvine headquarters by 2030 — a shift that underscores the growing challenges of doing business in the Golden State.

"There's a lot of great things about California, but raising a family is not easy here. Doing business is not easy here," Snyder said, echoing a sentiment that’s led to a wave of corporate relocations.

Between 2018 and 2021, more than 350 companies moved their headquarters out of California, according to research by Lee E. Ohanian of the Hoover Institution and Joseph Vranich, a Texas-based business relocation expert. Many were drawn to states with lower taxes, lighter regulations and friendlier business environments — areas where California has failed to compete.

For Snyder, the frustrations go beyond policy.

During the pandemic, state regulations forced the temporary closure of one San Francisco location. And in 2024, In-N-Out closed its Oakland restaurant after 18 years, citing rising crime in the area. The closure was particularly notable as it was the company’s first permanent shutdown in its 77-year history, despite the location still turning a profit.

Keeping the West Coast identity

In-N-Out’s cult-favorite menu might spark national cravings, especially from eager East Coast fans, but the company remains firm in its commitment to staying regional.