In-N-Out Burger could soon expand its footprint across the southern United States, with Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma emerging as potential new markets for the popular fast-food chain.

In-N-Out Burger, one of America’s most recognizable regional restaurant brands, is considering another major expansion as the company continues pushing beyond its traditional western markets.

During a recent interview with actor Terry Crews, In-N-Out President and owner Lynsi Snyder identified Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma as potential destinations for future restaurant development.

Although no specific locations or opening dates have been announced, the comments provide new insight into the company’s long-term growth strategy and could signal additional opportunities for commercial real estate developers, landowners, and retail investors throughout the South.

Three Southern States Could Be Next for In-N-Out Burger

Founded in Baldwin Park, California, in 1948, In-N-Out Burger has developed a loyal following through its limited menu, fresh ingredients, and commitment to quality.

Unlike many national quick-service restaurant chains, In-N-Out has historically pursued a deliberate expansion strategy, carefully selecting markets that can be supported by its distribution infrastructure.

The company’s latest potential expansion targets include:

• Arkansas: A market positioned between In-N-Out’s existing Texas and Tennessee operations.
• Mississippi: A potential opportunity for the company to establish a stronger presence throughout the southeastern United States.
• Oklahoma: A neighboring market to Texas that could complement the company’s existing distribution network.

These states represent possibilities rather than confirmed restaurant openings. In-N-Out has indicated that it is beginning to explore future opportunities, but has not identified specific cities or development sites.

Tennessee Expansion Opens the Door for Additional Growth

In-N-Out’s expansion into Tennessee in December 2025 marked an important milestone for the California-based company.

The move established the chain’s easternmost restaurant presence and introduced the brand to a new regional customer base.

The company has also invested in its Tennessee infrastructure, including an Eastern Territory headquarters in Franklin and a distribution facility in Lebanon.

These investments could support additional restaurant development across surrounding states.

With an existing distribution operation in Texas and an expanding presence in Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma offer geographic opportunities for the company to extend its restaurant network without immediately establishing an entirely separate supply chain.

In-N-Out currently operates approximately 445 restaurants across 10 states, demonstrating its continued growth while maintaining a more selective approach than many competing fast-food brands.

What In-N-Out’s Expansion Could Mean for Commercial Real Estate

The potential arrival of In-N-Out Burger in additional southern states could create new opportunities within the commercial real estate sector.

Quick-service restaurants with drive-thru operations remain an important component of retail development, particularly along major transportation corridors, near growing residential communities, and within established shopping districts.

For commercial landowners and developers, the expansion of a recognizable restaurant brand can generate additional interest in well-positioned retail properties.

Potential development opportunities could include freestanding restaurant sites, outparcels within larger shopping centers, and commercial properties near major interstate interchanges.

Markets experiencing population growth, increasing household formation, and new residential construction could become attractive candidates for future restaurant expansion.

However, In-N-Out has not publicly identified specific real estate requirements or confirmed development plans in the three prospective states.

Mississippi Could Benefit From Additional Restaurant Investment

Mississippi’s inclusion among In-N-Out’s potential expansion markets is particularly noteworthy for commercial real estate investors and developers monitoring growth throughout the Southeast.

Major transportation corridors, including Interstate 20, Interstate 55, and Interstate 10, connect several of the state’s largest commercial markets and could provide logistical advantages for restaurant operators.

Communities surrounding Jackson, Brandon, Hattiesburg, and other established retail corridors may warrant attention as regional restaurant expansion continues.

While these communities have not been identified by In-N-Out as future locations, their transportation access and existing commercial development make them relevant markets for evaluating broader quick-service restaurant demand.

Additional restaurant investment could also encourage surrounding retail development, particularly in areas where new residential communities are increasing demand for dining, shopping, and everyday services.

In-N-Out Burger Continues Its Selective Growth Strategy

Despite growing consumer demand, In-N-Out has repeatedly emphasized that rapid expansion is not its primary objective.

The company’s operating model relies heavily on fresh ingredients, consistent food preparation, and a distribution system capable of supporting its restaurants without compromising quality.

Unlike many national restaurant chains, In-N-Out does not franchise its locations, maintaining direct ownership and operational control over its restaurants.

This approach gives the company greater control over site selection, restaurant operations, and the pace of development.

In addition to exploring Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma, In-N-Out is preparing to enter New Mexico, with its first restaurants expected to open in 2027.

The company also continues to pursue additional locations within its established markets.

What’s Next for In-N-Out Burger?

For now, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma remain prospective expansion markets rather than confirmed development destinations.

The company’s growing distribution network and recent investments in Tennessee suggest that additional southern expansion is increasingly feasible.

For commercial real estate professionals, the announcement highlights the importance of monitoring restaurant expansion strategies, distribution infrastructure, and population growth when identifying future development opportunities.

As In-N-Out continues evaluating new markets, well-located commercial properties along major transportation corridors could attract additional interest from restaurant developers and investors.

ExtendedReach USA will continue monitoring In-N-Out Burger’s expansion plans and the potential commercial real estate opportunities associated with new restaurant development across the southern United States.