Northern Shenandoah Valley move (Richmond, Harrisonburg: rental, low crime, home)

[leavinthebigeasy]

Hello fellow forum members. Thanks in advance for any feedback.
My husband and I are moving to VA (from New Orleans) to get closer to my sister in Richmond. My husband loves the valley, however, I would like to start off renting a home somewhere in the northern part.(as far south as Harrisonburg to as far north as Winchester-but if another area comes to mind, I am open) I will work from home but need to travel twice a month (out of DC) so for the first year or two this area would be best, I think.

We want to have a year or two to explore the valley and see where we want to set roots (we want about 20 acres for a small farm rescue and maybe some farming) We would like a small town feel, friendly people and a middle -upper class area, historic areas and buildings a plus. Low crime (but I feel any area is better than New Orleans), I also love farmers markets and buying local so that would be a plus also. I like festivals, but not into bars. I am a singer so if there are those type of venues, like a piano or jazz bar that is a plus but not necessary.
My husband would be looking for work at a college so that would need to be within commuting distance. We have no children so schools are not a factor.
I also have some minor chronic medical issues so being within 30 mins of a decent hospital would be nice.
Lastly, we want to be outdoors, we love the water, and wildlife so being around those is a plus also.

May be a tall order, but moving for the 1st time in my life has me a bit nervous, but excited.

Where in that area would I find these items?

[Bigfoot424]

You will love the valley. My wife and I just moved from Northern VA to the valley. We're 30 minutes north of Harrisonburg. Winchester will not fit your bill as far as valley life. If you want the views you'll need to stay south a little. I'm 12 minutes from Woodstock which I think you'd like. There are so many activities out here in the little town you'll have a hard time keeping track of them. Woodstock's hospital is part of the Winchester system which is an excellent one at that. Great reputation. The hospital in Woodstock is smaller but friends at work have been going there for years and they like it. Winchester hospital is about 35 minutes north for us if we need a bigger hospital.

There are so many towns out this way so recommending one is tough. But you should have no problems finding the rental that fits your bill. The mountain views in the valley are incredible.

James Madison and Shenandoah Universities are the 2 larger ones within commuting drives from the valley.