That is what I am thinking...with induction it's just so much faster so I figure why would I need the 5 burner? I rarely use all four of my gas rangetop...

exactly :)

It really depends on how much you like to cook and will the extra size make cooking more enjoyable and easier. The range is going to last you for a number of years so if you really enjoy cooking and need the extra cook top space then go for the 36". When you average out the extra money it costs each year over the life of the appliance then it really isn't that difficult to decide. If you can afford and will use and enjoy the 36" more then you've answered your own question.

I for one know that if I had the extra space for a 36" when we redid our kitchen I would have done it in a heartbeat.

Don't forget that a bigger cooktop requires a bigger hood too. Would a bigger hood still be within your budget?

Ok...now I am thinking we will just get the 36" -- I am over the cost and think the 30" may look on the small side in our island. It's funny how some design decisions can be a total mental block and this is one of them for me. I keep going round and round.

As for the hood...I'm almost scared to tell you, but we are not doing one! Since it would be in the island I don't want to block the sight line. Is that awful? I don't have a hood now and the dumb 1980s electric cooktop makes me burn everything and my house isn't smelly nor do I have grease on things. I don't really fry any foods and typically roast all of my veggies in the oven, so I'm hoping it's ok. Any thoughts on this? Thanks for the feedback, all!