If you're going to be spending $1000 on a camera body, and $1000+ on lenses, then I'd recommend taking a good look at what Nikon has to offer.

The D3200, D5200, and D7100 are all very nice. I picked up the D5200 myself, and I'd say the bump to the D7100 is worth if it if you have the cash.

As far as lenses go, I've learned that it's really subjective. If you can't borrow or rent out a camera + lenses easily, then you will have to make a best-guess and get what you think you will want. An f2.8 zoom lens will be pricey, but I definitely see why it's a good idea. Alternatively, you might just like prime lenses, and then have a kit zoom lens on the side (or just primes only).

You could take a look at the Sigma 17-70mm f2.8... it's $500. Idk why I didn't get it.

I know ill repeat myself but i just want him not to be confused, the 17-70mm is actually a f2.8 - 4 (almost like a kit lens so that's why it's kinda cheap)
For a budget lens that does a really great job: Tamron 17-50mm f2.8
But in nikon side even by taking the d3200 with some badass lens you'll get amazing results.
Of course the more expensive the cameras are the more the quality with noise and stuff will be better but YOU REALLY DONT NEED to spend a massive amount of money on a camera because in the end this is the part that you can change in the future.
Having all the lenses you need and then having only the body to upgrade later then that's the best way to go <- You'll produce higher quality image with better lenses, of course at night it can be tricky because low ends camera dont handle high ISO that good but... Get a tripod if really needed.
I got a Old 2008 D90 and i can take night pictures with no noise at all with a good tripod. <- Tripod are really awesome btw not the shitty $50 tripod but something like a good $250 manfrotto tripod that is raelly heavy = awesome
Of course the $4000 d4 will be 38439248 times better than any other crop sensor camera but shiet it's not worth it at all (well yes it's worth it but not to start ahah)