Here’s Why In-N-Out Burger Will Likely Never Open in New York

In-N-Out Burger has continued its expansion into the Midwest, with reports confirming that Oklahoma will be one of the next states to experience the juicy burger goodness.

The Oklahoman confirms that the fast-food giant is looking at prime property in Oklahoma City, competing for real estate against Bojangles, Pizza Ranch, and Steak & Shake.

News of the chain’s expansion comes hot on the heels of In-N-Out Burger’s announcement to grow and open up multiple locations across the country. Fans of the well-known fast-food company, who are frequently unhappy that the brand is difficult to obtain outside of California, are pleased by this news.

However, fans in New York and the greater Tri-State area are not getting an In-N-Out Burger anytime soon — if at all.

According to PopCrush, the fast-food giant’s 400 locations can be found in California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Idaho, Texas, Oregon, Colorado, New Mexico, and Washington state.

This is not a franchise, as most fast-food businesses are; it is privately owned. Additionally, it uses food that is always fresh and never frozen, using considerable caution to avoid overspending while maintaining cheaper costs than rivals.

Since In-N-Out does not pre-package, freeze, or microwave any of its food, a plant that produces hamburger patties or a location to open one must exist within 300 miles of the restaurant.

The current owner and granddaughter of the burger chain’s founders, Lynsi Snyder, said in an interview with NBC’s “Today” that Tennessee will probably be the furthest east that she opens an In-N-Out while she’s in charge, according to Allrecipes.

“As long as I’m around, I’m probably saying never,” she said, referring to expanding into the East Coast.

In-N-Out Burger will also “absolutely” remain a privately owned company, Snyder confirmed. She is wary of being too big and is committed to maintaining cheaper costs than her rivals. “[We] felt such an obligation to look out for our customer. When everyone else was taking these jumps, we weren’t,” she continued.

As for the Tennessee location, PopCrush confirmed that its first location will open its doors sometime in 2026 in the Nashville area — the farthest east the fast-food chain has ever opened. The company originated in Los Angeles more than 75 years ago and remains a popular cult favorite amongst both locals and tourists.