I found ArcticMC and it is a new SMP that started only a couple days ago. It is a Towny and factions survival server so you can make a town and claim land then team up with others or fight over territory.
PVP matters here but it is not just random killing. They use an honor system and it is explained in their rules so combat is supposed to stay fair.
There is McMMO skills so you level up as you play and unlock abilities when you get higher levels. They also have custom items like furniture and it is entity based so they plan limits per chunk to help with lag.
The world uses Tectonic generation so the terrain looks realistic with big mountains and valleys. The community is meant to be calm and friendly so you can build grind explore or just hang out.
Fresh Towny Factions SMP With Honor PVP
GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IPCorbat SMP Vanilla Wars and Real Economy
Corbat SMP is a survival server where the game feels like normal Minecraft again. It skips the crazy custom enchantments and it does not have overpowered modded gear. It is meant to stay clean and balanced so fights and progress feel fair.
It has a jobs system so you can earn money by doing stuff you already do. Mining farming woodcutting hunting and fishing all help you make cash while you play.
The economy is run by players. You can buy and sell with other people and set up player shops. Supply and demand matters so your grind actually has value.
There are factions too. You can claim land build a stronghold make alliances and start wars. It sounds like a place for long term survival with balanced PvP and an active community with no pay to win.GG.MINEWIND.NET New Server IP