Lance, go for what your budget dictates. I have wood handled knives that I've had for nearly 30 years, and they show their age. I agree with Brian about the beauty of a nice wood handle, especially if it's part of your decor.
But, bottom line is that a knife is just a tool. Personally, I only buy the low-maintenance handles now. Easy to clean, and they don't absorb bacteria like wood. Same reason I use a plastic cutting board instead of wood.