I found ArcticMC SMP and it is a chill survival server that mixes Towny and factions. It only launched a couple days ago so it feels fresh and easy to get started.
You can build a town and claim your space then make alliances or go for territory like a real faction server. PVP matters here but they use an honor system that is explained in their rules.
It also has McMMO skills so you level up while you play and unlock special abilities as you grow. There are custom items too and they even have furniture that is entity based with plans to limit it per chunk to help with lag.
The world uses Tectonic generation so the terrain looks really realistic with big mountains and valleys. The community is calm and friendly so it is more about building and vibing instead of nonstop chaos.
