I don't make many calls either. That's why I haven't bought a " smart phone " before now.
But I see so many things being done with them such as paying your tab at checkout counters / restaurants by waving your phone and I know the trend isn't going to stop.
Phones today are everyone's camera and video camera and voice recorder and bill payer and ebook reader and game machine ( tiny games ).
They are doing so much more than phone calls that the extra expense might be worth it.
I < can > use a smart phone on the I-wireless carrier I believe but it seems a rinky dink outfit.
Which carrier do you use?
Going from inexpensive/free to Verizon is likely a significant change in cost. look at and compare coverage maps as well before you decide. Personally I switched to a pay as I go plan since I often don't make that many calls its cheaper overall. it all depends on how you use it... especially with respect to the data plan. set it up with you home WiFi so it uses that when your at home.