Site prep is the biggest part of above ground pools, so a $2000 pool is going to cost more unless you are in for doing the big DIY job and it IS a big job. With proper site prep just about any pool will hold up for a long time - spend the money on the site prep and filter equipment - just make sure the liner is decent, that can ruin the whole thing. Not many places are still selling the 15g liners but I have seen some, yikes. 20-25 or better if you can find it. Most are around 25g. Get a decent to very good sized filter and an average 3/4 pump should handle the cleaning job. We live in the deep winter area of the country and have had no issues at all with snow, ice, frost heaves, etc., but we spent a huge amount of energy and time on site prep - HUGE.
I agree that the ring and Intex metal frame pools are good starters for people who are new to pools and maintc., but if you have had IG pools before you know how that goes. The problem with the Intex pools is set up, take down, set up take down and THAT is the hugest hassle of all. If you don't want to deal with that hassle and can stand the extra cash or elbow grease for proper site prep then its more about finding the best price for the equipment. Just about any of the online sites have great deals. Better to buy the pool and equipment separately as they usually package a pump that is too large with a filter that is too small and a bunch of other items that aren't as important. Go for a good price on the frame, liner, skimmer and return package and shop for a good sized filter and 3/4 hp pump.
I used ProPools.com but a lot of others have just as good deals. Shop around - compare apples to apples - most every metal framed pool these days has all the proper coatings and protective sealers, etc., so its more about - metal framed (standard), aluminum (more expensive) and resin (most expensive) - there are also wood sided and foam filled panel pools (supposed to be great insulaters) - these are also the more expensive alternatives. The Doughboy and a few other brands have deep end pools and may be buried as well. Most of the three average types above also have options that can make a difference on price, quality or durability - aluminum bottom rails vs steel, resin uprights, rails, top caps vs. metal, ovals with bracing (the older style) or braceless (most new style ovals) - Lots to consider and now is a good time to pool shop, sales everywhere!! Good luck