Hey, when I was working on the local newspaper and preparing 200 plus photos and graphics a day, PhotoShop was the only one that could keep up. If you use it wisely, its a bargain at twice the price!
Also consider adding CorelDraw to the list. I don't think it is as "powerful", though I haven't used it professionally since Ver 8, but it is the best thing for getting your work done quickly and easily. Much more user friendly than most vector programs.