We seldom need snow chains here in Colorado. Except at the higher elevations, snow seldom lasts long enough to justify their use. A couple of weeks of sunshine, warmer temperatures and the snow is gone. You’d hardly believe winter was around here.
My experience was around 2005 / 6
I keep a set in my truck, and a tow strap. I have needed them to get out a couple times each winter (been here two years). After a good snow it might be two days before a plow shows up. We're 25 minutes off the pavement at about 9000 ft. I've needed the tow strap a couple time to drag other folks out of ditches back in here.
I agree though, never needed them in town, 4x4 will do.