Is it safe to assume that PST servers will be located in the LA datacenter while EST servers will be in Chicago?
Trying to get a server in LA due to latency and if so it seems like fairbanks and whitemane are my only options
Yes, this is confirmed locations.
TBH, it's more about scheduling w/ other players than ping. The difference in ping will be pretty small. Scheduling a raid w/ players who are mostly 3 hours ahead or behind you in time is problematic, or maybe even advantageous depending on your work schedule.
yeah I think the time zone of the people playing with you is a bigger issue. You on the west coast and trying to raid with an east coast guild? Their 7PM weekday RAID time is 4PM PST. Good luck getting in there if you work a 9-5. It's just easier if you're in the same or similar time zones as everybody around you.