I think it depends on what you're playing. The first instrument I learned was a violin (tuned in 5ths), so playing the bass was initially a bit odd. However intervals like a minor 3rd on the same string can be a bit of a stretch down at the money end on a bass tuned in 5ths so I can see what many bassist stick with the standard tuning given their role in a band context. An octave played across two strings suddenly becomes a bit weird too!
Solo bassist have more freedom in this respect clearly. Also bear in mind the Cello scale length is around 27-28" (from memory) so a bit easier to stretch.