I just replaced my 1995 F250 with a 1999 F250. 4x4, 183k miles, long bed. $2k
Granted, I'm not the typical suburban dweller, but I'd be severely hampered by not having a pickup. Business uses aside, I buy 8 ft building materials somewhat often; as well as heavy, greasy big machines and parts, and loose bulk material (dirt, mulch, wood).
I commute in a little economy car that gets good fuel mileage and zips nicely though traffic - but my truck probably averages one mission a week that I just can't do with my car.