Classic "get into espresso to save money" lol. Espresso is definitely a pretty expensive hobby (tho doesn't NEED to be). But coffee can be cheap. $100-200 BIFL hand grinder, and like $50 for a brewer + tons of paper filters.
(if you're trying to do decent coffee for cheap, a $40 hand grinder and a $10 french press is fine once you get a good technique.)
1zpresso grinders are fantastic and (as you said earlier) a buy-it-for-life thing. But if you're struggling with cost, a Hario is much better and not much more than an electric blade grinder.
I have a younger relative who drinks instant or preground, maybe if I give him my hario he'll start grinding fresh