In-N-Out Burger CEO Lynsi Snyder, the billionaire granddaughter of the chain's founder, has announced she and her family are moving from California to Tennessee.
Though the fast-food chain's headquarters will remain in California for now, Snyder said the move is about family and business.
"There are a lot of great things about California, but raising a family is not easy here. Doing business is not easy here," Snyder said in an interview on the "Relatable" podcast.
In-N-Out is setting up a new corporate office in Franklin, Tennessee, and has big plans to open 35 new locations across the state, CNBC said.Tennessee Governor Bill Lee welcomed the move, saying the company will thrive in the state.
Despite her relocation, Snyder made it clear she's not abandoning California. "Where I raise my family has nothing to do with my love and appreciation for our customers in California," she said in a follow-up statement.
In-N-Out has been a California favorite since 1948, when founder Harry Snyder—Lynsi Snyder's grandfather—opened the very first location in Baldwin Park.
The chain now has over 400 locations across eight states, with most still in California.
In-N-Out’s billionaire boss leaving California: ‘Doing business is not easy here’ https://t.co/JK1HxhW6va
— Jim Russell (@ProducerCities) July 22, 2025
Snyder Defends Move to Tennessee Amid Criticism
Even so, the move to Tennessee reflects a larger trend of companies expanding beyond their home base.
According to AP, several major companies and leaders—like Charles Schwab, Chevron, and Elon Musk—have also left California in recent years. Reasons include high taxes, strict regulations, and rising living costs.
California's top corporate tax rate is 8.84%, compared to Tennessee's 6.5%. Tennessee also has no state income tax, making it more appealing to business owners.
In-N-Out's new office in Tennessee is set to be finished by 2026. In the meantime, In-N-Out plans to relocate its current Irvine headquarters back to Baldwin Park by 2029.
Critics have questioned Snyder's decision, noting that her family's wealth was built in California. But she maintains her decision is about what's best for her four children.
In-N-Out has grown slowly but steadily, with a focus on fresh ingredients and quality control. Its national expansion has always been cautious, as new stores must stay close to supply centers due to the brand's no-freezer policy.
Originally published on vcpost.com
