DW and I have been doing Disney together since 2002. We have FL premium passes (which have no blackout dates and include parking plus water parks and discounts at some shops and restaurants. Proximity to Disney was one of the factors in moving to the Villages. We are still young enough that we can drive down in the morning and be in the park when it opens. We do what we want and usually head for the exit around 3 (when the crowds are moving into peak mode).
As to price, consider that Disneyland (California) has about 10% first time visitors and 90% repeat guests. Disney World has about 90% 1st time visitors and 10% repeat guests.
We normally carry a backpack with ponchos (rain and water rides), a lunch box sized soft cooler with soft drinks and sandwiches. This will save money, but more importantly saves time and lets you simply stop and eat when you want to.
If you want to avoid crowds, I recommend TouringPlans.com - for a modest annual subscription, you can see crowd projections a year in advance.
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