OP, you nailed it with how much the price of trucks has skyrocketed in the last 5-7 years. I considered upgrading to an F-250 and was shocked at comparing comparable F-150's to my 2007 cost now and add $5000 or so to go up to 3/4 ton.
I have no desire to drive a one ton around and really don't need a 3/4 other than towing a TT so I decided to look at Class C's and A's instead for my retirement solution. No it's not the room of a 5er so you still have to ask what matters most but if you need to buy a new tow vehicle the money is in the same range.
Intermediate step is likely a TT that is 1/2 ton towable. Just an option for consideration.
