Is upgrading to php 7 worth the pain? I need it for xDebug

Client is React Native Server I'm using php 5.4, because thats what I'm using on my wordpress server.

I'm not exactly sure how an upgrade to php 7 will change my currently working mysql database, my worpress install, every application's plugins, my older android and web apps.

I also dont want to mess around with a virtual machine, IMO more hassle than its worth, I use my personal website to reduce rewriting code.

Problem is, I'm using Netbeans for PHP and it seems every guide is based on xDebug, who I learned last time, DO NOT use older versions. Only pain and misery.

Half thinking of using error_reporting(E_ALL) and skipping the whole debugging process, but I know thats bad form.

Solo project, but goal is a venmo style app. I have lots of old code from previous apps that copy paste well. It would be nice to save it,.