I have found that if my budget is humble or extravagant I spend every penny I can beg borrow or steal, always a bit more than I have budgeted. Budget are for married or responsible people. However, whatever your budget is there is a way to get in the air on a regular basis. My home glider port rents 1-26's and 2-33 for next to nothing, the cost of the tow being the biggest cost, about $50. Funny how flying is now cheaper than skiing. Clubs like the ones mentioned above are extremely good deals. I would think the biggest cost of ownership/ flying is the cost of tows, which in itself is still a great deal, but figure 40 tows at $50 for the year, or $2,000.