I was looking for a similar spec and the choices for me came down to the Trek Crossrip LTD and Salsa Warbird. I liked everything about the Warbird other than the absence of rack mounts.
Of course there are ways to mount racks to a bike without braze-ons, various kits, brackets etc. So for the minimal amount of touring that I do I was happy enough to accept the compromise.
The Warbird is working out great for me so far. It's very comfortable, both in the way it deals with crappy surfaces and the more relaxed geo. It's right at your budget too.