Why In-N-Out Is Moving to Tennessee and What It Means for Corporate Relocation Trends

IN-N-OUT BURGER

In-N-Out Burger’s move to Tennessee isn’t just about burgers; it’s about economics, workforce strategy, and relocation clarity. As the fast-food giant opens a second headquarters in Franklin, TN, it joins a growing trend of companies moving to more affordable states. But what does this mean for employees, and how much could a move like this save?

Why In-N-Out Is Leaving California for Tennessee

In-N-Out Burger is officially expanding its operations by establishing a co-headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee. While their original Irvine HQ remains, this move reflects broader trends in corporate relocation—lower costs, improved business environments, and a more attractive lifestyle for employees.

CEO Lynsi Snyder cited the rising costs of living in California, the desire for family-friendly lifestyles, and Tennessee’s favorable economic environment as key motivators. “This expansion is not a goodbye to California, but a hello to opportunities in Tennessee and beyond,” she noted.

Cost of Living: Irvine, CA vs. Franklin, TN

Median Home Price

• Irvine, CA: ~$1.58M (Zillow)

• Franklin, TN: ~$920K (Zillow)

State Income Tax

• Irvine, CA: ~9.3% for middle-income earners

• Franklin, TN: 0%

Gas (Per Gallon)

• Irvine, CA: ~$4.48 (TAIT Report)

• Franklin, TN: ~$3.35 (Way.com)

Groceries & Overall Cost of Living

• Franklin’s overall cost of living is ~23.5% lower than Irvine (BestPlaces.net)

Commute Time (Average)

• Irvine, CA: ~47 mins (Redfin)

• Franklin, TN: Regional average ~28 mins

These differences can translate into $15,000–$25,000 in annual savings for a mid-level employee.

Corporate Relocations Are on the Rise

In-N-Out isn’t alone. Other major brands are making similar moves to optimize costs and workforce satisfaction:

• KFC is relocating its U.S. headquarters to Plano, Texas, to consolidate operations and attract broader talent.

• Oracle announced a new global headquarters in Nashville, continuing its shift away from traditional coastal hubs.

These moves are driven by cost, access to talent, and a business environment that includes less regulation, meaning that companies are prioritizing:

• Simplified labor laws

• Lower tax burdens

• Streamlined licensing and compliance

• Talent availability in lower-cost markets

The goal? Improve operational efficiency without sacrificing employee retention.

What Should Employees Consider Before Relocating?

While companies look at tax breaks and business incentives, employees face personal and financial challenges when moving. Key questions include:

• Can I afford housing in the new city?

• Will lower taxes increase my real income?

• How will day-to-day costs like groceries, childcare, or insurance change?

• Will my quality of life improve?

Clarity Before You Commit: How City Shift Finance Helps

At City Shift Finance, we help employees and corporations avoid relocation regret. Our Personalized Relocation Snapshots deliver:

• Tax comparisons

• Cost-of-living breakdowns

• Housing and school insights

• Salary negotiation benchmarks

• ROI dashboards for HR teams

Whether you're an HR manager relocating talent or an employee evaluating a cross-country move, financial clarity ensures smarter decisions.

A Strategic Move with Personal Impact

In-N-Out’s Tennessee move signals more than just a corporate expansion—it highlights the increasing importance of affordable living, employee retention, and strategic mobility.

As CEO, Lynsi Snyder said:

“We see this as a chance to grow while staying true to our values—supporting our people, wherever they are.”

Get a Personalized Relocation Snapshot

Whether you're moving for work, opportunity, or a better life, get the numbers that matter.

At City Shift Finance, we help people move smarter. With our custom reports, you’ll see how your current city compares to your next one, from taxes and housing to childcare, insurance, and beyond.