I live in Wiedikon (Postal code 8045). We've got trams (Nos. 13 & 5) as well as the train station "Saalsporthalle" within spitting distance, with the lake or downtown just minutes away. To the rear of the apartments is the Allmend Brunau (huge open green area with a river, woods, picnic areas, dog walkers, horse riders etc.), shopping centres Brunaupark and Shilcity within 2 mins. walking distance, and a kind of "multi-culti" neighbourhood with lots of children, which I like.
It's not the smartest of areas in Zurich, but it certainly is lively, friendly and affordable (nice 5.5 room flat, 2 parking spaces in garage, huge cellar with washing machine/dryer and all extras: around Fr. 3'200 per month).
Your husband would have to change trains at the main station, but it's only a 7-minute trip to the main station with the S4 train from your doorstep.