2500 is the way to go. It will provide extra safety by providing plenty of laod/towing capacity instead of being near maximum with a 1500. I also always choose longbeds. I need the room and they seem to have a less choppy ride when towing or empty.
Our family for many years used suburbans for our tow vehicles...plenty of passenger and cargo room. Everything safe and secure inside the vehicle vs in the pickup bed.
I've always had GM trucks and haven't had any out of the five that has had unexpected issues only wear and tear stuff.