Best cigar bang for the buck is a Padron 3000. Usually about $7 a stick. Constant quality never had a bad one. It is also a great cigar for beginners.
There are other cigars out there that are very good that are anywhere from $5 or so and up. The most expensive cigar I have had was a $30 Fuente Opus X Lost City.
Good bargain cigars (by bargain I mean price not taste) to look for are Nat Sherman, La Aroma de Cuba, Herrrera Esteli just to name a few. The great thing about cigars is trying new ones, much like whiskey.
I pay anywhere from $5-13 per stick. You are right though it is not a cheap habit, and the reason it should be enjoyed. Take your time, enjoy the cigar. Mix it with different drinks- coffee, different alcohols, wine....see how it changes the complexity of the cigar.