Market Data
1. A New Beginning: The Decision to Move
In 2008, my husband Adam and I embarked on a life-changing journey from Iowa to Oregon, driven by our growing concerns about climate change. The catastrophic flooding in eastern Iowa served as a catalyst, prompting us to rethink our future and seek a place that promised resilience against the climate crisis. Attracted by Portland’s reputation as a beacon of sustainability, we envisioned a life surrounded by vibrant culture, quaint bookstores, and cozy coffee shops. Adam, with his forward-thinking approach, had already analyzed climate simulations, leading us to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, which stood out as a haven on those early climate maps.
2. Settling in Salem: The Initial Experience
Our arrival in Salem in 2008 marked the beginning of a new chapter. We settled into a charming 1910 farmhouse, filled with optimism. I started a newspaper column, "Desperately Seeking Salem," where I shared both my criticisms and admiration for our new home. However, the transition was not without its challenges. The isolation of being a stay-at-home parent, coupled with the scarcity of job opportunities in my field, led to deep loneliness and despair. Despite these struggles, we found solace in starting a family, bringing new joy into our lives.
3. Rediscovering Home in McMinnville
Three years later, we moved to McMinnville, drawn by its quirky charm and the allure of wine country. This move marked a turning point as we shifted from focusing on amenities to building roots. We invested in the community, starting a business and embracing the local culture. The Urban Growth Boundary, a policy aimed at preserving farmland and forests, became a source of inspiration for me. Our commitment to McMinnville deepened as we engaged with the community, and I learned the value of creating meaningful connections beyond superficial attractions.
4. Navigating the Climate Crisis
As the climate crisis intensified, our experiences in Oregon were marked by challenges such as wildfires and poor air quality. By 2020, the smoke-filled skies became a harsh reality, prompting us to prepare for emergencies. Each year brought new threats, from ruined harvests to displacement, testing our resolve. Yet, amidst these challenges, we found strength in our community and the resilience of our new home. The climate risk information on Zillow served as a reminder of our precarious situation, but we chose to face it with informed caution rather than fear.
5. Growth and Integration: Finding Belonging
Our journey in Oregon was not just about geographical change but also personal growth. I transitioned from a critical outsider to a engaged community member, learning to appreciate the intangible aspects of home. The support of our community, the simplicity of family life, and the beauty of our surroundings fostered a sense of belonging. My husband’s short commute and my work-from-home setup allowed us to build a stable family life, free from the pressures of urban surveillance. We found joy in the everyday moments, like our children playing in the neighborhood, which became the foundation of our happiness.
6. Reflections on Climate Moving: A Journey of Resilience
Looking back, our decision to move for climate reasons was just one chapter in a much larger story. We’ve learned that true home is where you invest your heart and effort. The climate crisis remains a constant threat, but it has also united us with our community. We’ve come to understand that home is not just a place but a sense of belonging and shared experience. As I reflect on our journey, I realize that the idea of climate moving is timeless—humans have always sought safer, better lives. Our story is one of resilience, a reminder that even in uncertain times.
In the end, our choice to move to Oregon was not just about escaping climate change but about building a life where we could grow, connect, and find meaning. It’s a journey many are embarking on, each with their own story of seeking a place to call home in a changing world.
