I started with an FX 7.6 last year, fell in love with the Surly Long Haul Trucker (non-WSD) and bought that as well. Sadly my FX was just a little too big for me and I eventually sold it to upgrade my LHT. My LHT is a touring bike, but I converted it to mountain riser bars and trigger shifters - this works fine for me regardless of the length of my ride.

I do like the advice others have given you about checking into used bikes - if you are lucky you can get a better bike for less money.

For me, my unisex LHT fits me much better than the WSD FX 7.6 did. This may not have been due to the WSD geometry however - I've noted that the FX sizes are not all that small, not where the effective top tube length is concerned . I am the same height that you are.

To cut to the chase, you need to test ride as many bikes as you can in your price range. Hopefully they will allow you to ride around the neighborhood instead of just in the parking lot - everything feels good in the parking lot Have fun with your search and good luck!