Nikon D5000 v D7000?

I currently have a Nikon D5000 that I'm beginning to outgrow. I'd like to upgrade to a new Nikon without completely breaking the bank! Would I see a significant improvement in image quality with a D7000? Very vague question I understand, but all input is appreciated!

I use the D5100 and D7100…

Image quality is superb from the D5100 it uses the very same sensor found in the D7000… If you need an articulated screen (I prefer it simply for the extra protection it gives) the D5100 is worth looking at… I use the D5100 more than I imagined, it's fun and enjoyable to work with and the results are great… I use the D7100 if i'm on a demanding shoot or covering an event where I need the benefit of the twin SD slots…

.i'll probably get a bit of stick for this… I seriously don't need the 24 megapixels on the D7100 and the D7000 would easily satisfy me for more than a few years.

If your D5000 isn't broken, you don't need a new camera.

How is it that you're outgrowing your D5000? Sure, the D7000 has a few extra things that make it a nice camera to use like dedicated buttons for a few common settings, top LCD, and a focus motor in the body. Oh, you do get a few extra pixels on the D7000, but it isn't going to make much difference.

It is impossible to "outgrow" a fully adjustable camera.

A D5100 can do everything that a Nikon D5 can do. While it is true that the D4 has a full frame sensor and has a provision for shooting time lapse video, there's no need to buy a new camera.

I suggest you spend you money on more lenses and take more time honing your skills using the camera you have

This tool compares the two cameras and lists the advantages of each. Be sure to scroll down to the "differences" section.
http://snapsort.com/...ikon_D7000

Yes, the D7000 has a measurable increase in image quality and dynamic range.