The West Coast burger wars just got juicier. After years of anticipation, In-N-Out Burger has officially arrived in Washington State, completing its conquest of the entire West Coast that had fans reportedly camping out overnight.
On Wednesday, August 20, In-N-Out opened its newest location in Ridgefield, Washington — a historic first for the California-based burger chain. Loyal fans lined up for hours to be among the first to experience those famous double-double burgers and animal-style fries north of Oregon.
The new Ridgefield location sits about 25 miles north of Portland in Clark County. It features indoor seating for 73 customers and a covered patio accommodating 28 more. The restaurant is managed by Clint Ford, a 26-year In-N-Out veteran, and staffed with around 80 employees starting at $18.75 per hour.
Before Ridgefield, fans in Washington had to make a 45-minute drive to the nearest In-N-Out in Keizer, Oregon. Now, the West Coast is officially covered, from Southern California to the Pacific Northwest.
The family-owned chain, founded in 1948 by Harry and Esther Snyder, has expanded beyond its California roots while maintaining its cult-like following.
Photo by AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images
Recent years have seen successful expansion into Colorado, Texas and Idaho, with each new market holding firm to its founding principles. Unlike many fast-food chains that franchise rapidly, In-N-Out maintains strict control over its growth.
“I like that we’re sought after when someone’s coming into town,” explains In-N-Out President Lynsi Snyder to Forbes. “I like that we’re unique… You put us in every state and it takes away some of its luster.”
That same mindset is why an East Coast expansion remains highly unlikely. Despite constant demand, Snyder has made it clear that In-N-Out is staying west — for now.
“Florida has begged us and we’re still saying no,” Snyder revealed on an episode of the “Relatable” podcast. “The East Coast states, we’re still saying no.”
The Ridgefield opening is just the beginning of In-N-Out’s 2025 expansion plans. According to the company’s official website, six additional locations are in development across Surprise, Arizona; Indio, California; Modesto, California; Monrovia, California; Sylmar, California; and Brighton, Colorado.
While In-N-Out hasn’t provided specific opening dates for these locations, the company typically announces grand opening details two to three months in advance.
