Welcome to the forums Adrian,
I have lots of experience with all three of the types you mention. They are all great planes, though with burdens which are coming with aging aircraft. All Arrows will have variable pitch props. A few Cherokees and 172's have them, with all others being configured with fixed pitch props. The engine and propeller operating costs for these aircraft will be easily predicted, with no surprises unique to the type of airplane.
However, all f these types have increased structural inspection requirements on their horizons (which is a good thing). Arrows and Cherokees have had wing spar structural concerns, and to a lesser degree Cessna 172 and 182 have wing strut carry through structure inspection requirements. I have accomplished these inspections on both the Pipers and Cessnas. The Cessna's inspections, and possible corrective action will be less costly, than those for the Pipers. Really do your homework on the structural inspection requirements which will apply to the airplane you would like to buy. Though those inspections are manufacturer's recommended practices right now, it is possible they may be imposed by airworthiness directives, which will be mandatory. Beyond the inspection cost, it becomes a matter of what is to be done if a defect is found - repair parts required. The low cost older version of an airframe may not hold the proportionate value of the later version of the same model, in terms of the relative value of accomplishing an expensive repair.
At present, I'm unaware of similar inspection requirements being imposed upon Cessna 150/152's, making then still an economical choice. And, of course there are lots of other small airplane types from which to choose, though some of those (like J-3/PA-18) have their own unique inspection expectations. Doing your homework in detail will become more and more important in the near future of airplane purchase decision making...