Best area for a blend of rural / suburban living in North Carolina

[Layne T.]

NC BP Team,

Could use your advice. Doing some research in 2-3 states and wondering what are the best areas in your state to look at properties for purchase that would encompass most of these:

-Ability to get a few acres (don't need 100, but say 3-5)
-Home that can come with land suitable for small hobby farm/homesteading type stuff (couple of horses, maybe small garden, etc.)
-Solid neighbors that look out for one another
-Not a poorer, declining area 
-Far enough from cities to be left alone/not have any city grittiness but also no more than 45-60 mins away from hospitals, groceries, etc.
-Homes that aren't falling apart/need major rehab on the property
-Prices in six figures overall not seven figures

What 2-3 cities should I really pinpoint in terms of the Zillow map to get an idea of some great options?