Ive Had a CJ, YJ, and my current TJ. I definitely love the TJ the most, but depending on budget, you may want to opt for the CJ or YJ. The TJ I would say is a way better built machine, it has awesome on road and off road capabilities compare to the others, but it is more expensive to maintain IMO. If you are looking for a strict wheeler, then I would opt for the CJ as most junk yards have many available, and you arent going to care if you smash it up a bit. My TJ has outlasted my other two, so far by 260k miles.
All in all the TJ is going to be the best riding with a solid build, while it is great for off roading, the expenses will eventually drain you more than a CJ or YJ. I will say no matter what, get a 4.0 engine, they are solid and can take a huge beating. I would stay away from the 04-06 models though, due to the oil pump system being wonky.