Moving from ATL>Salem

I will try to answer your question int eh order they were presented and then I will add a few comments/suggests.

1) Depending on just how big a truck you are renting, the drive will be... interesting depending on the weather. We came out in June. Ran into some decent snow fall in the mountains and 60-80 mph winds/gusts on this side of them. Those big trucks feel all that wind. I would say take it easy, but going through the mountains, I doubt you have much choice. Going downhill will be fine, but if you are loaded down, back up will be painfully slow in some areas. When you are planning your trip calculate an average speed of 45-50mph for your drive time. (We came in on the Oregon trail.)

2) Different places have different rules on pets, but there are a lot will allow them. Usually with an additional fee. Some of the places put here wont rent to you without you being able to inspect the place first. Hard to do when you are 2k+ miles away. Like u/tortnotes mentioned, check zillow and craigslist to get a general idea. apartmentratings.com might be a good place to look through also. Summer/late spring is the best time to find a place. Late summer most likely the worst.

3)If you are Salem centered, either Keizer (really a sub of Salem) or south Salem. West Salem has good areas, but the bridges (and the lack there of) becomes a problem during any rush times and if the big quake ever hits. The closer you are to I-5 the less I would recommend it.

Comments: I-5 is a thing. Driving on that is like nothing else I have ever driven on. Slow and slowing for no apparent reason with some cars driving like crazy (locals will say "Californians" about that). Distances that would take 30-45 minutes in many place take 45-60 here. Driving in town in an experience as well. Pedestrians tend to be an issue.

Bring stuff you really like. Food wise especially. Sorghum? Bring it, or you will have to ship it in. If you can find it around here let me know. Southern supplies are on short supply here. (Eat a lot of catfish and hushpuppies with picked green tomatoes while you can.)

WalMart here isn't the big deal it is everywhere else. They are around but are mere shadows of the ones closer to their origin.

It is a different world here. Lots of little things that can take some getting use to, but its alright.

PS: Here when they talk about the "Civil War", it is a ballgame rivalry between 2 colleges. I know, right?

/r/SALEM Thread