I don't think I spend $2k a year and I ride about 7000 miles a year and have 4 bikes. The only thing I purchase on a regular basis is tires and tubes. I buy them when they go on sale and get enough to last a year or 2. Plus I patch the tubes unless they are ruined. You can get top quality racing tires for $25 each if you shop around and wait for the sales.
As far as a commuter bike goes, any old bike will do. Why would you want to commute on and expensive bike? Back in the day when I had a job I could commute by bike to, I had an old touring bike I payed $150 for. Plus, old 6/7/8 speed chains last a lot longer and cost way less.