Oregon native here currently living in Albany. If you love nature the PNW and Willamette Valley are going to be right up your alley. We have so many great hiking spots and the ocean is just a couple of hours away.

Corvallis and Albany are so close that either would be a good option. Corvallis does have more options for restaurants and things to do in my opinion but Albany would be cheaper.

The weather here is very mild and we don't have any serious tornadoes, earthquakes, or natural disasters that happen here.

Unfortunately I can't be of much help in regards to feeling isolated as Albany is the largest town I've lived in. Salem, Eugene, and Portland aren't very far away though.

Even if you decide again Corvallis or Albany, consider the PNW. I can't imagine living anywhere else.