It isn't just the turntable, but the arm, cartridge, phono stage and particular pressings, in top condition, cleaned. That is going to cost money. No way you get what "vinyl" has to offer without spending money. Some people are happy to go "used" and vintage; others are wary, short of a full restoration.
If I budget this, it isn't cheap. And we haven't even talked about the cost of the "software." Record prices are high, and grading is all over the place. That said, I've been very fortunate- I talk to sellers in advance, because I don't want to have to return. And in a very few cases have I had to, given the number of records bought online. Just be aware that this isn't an idle pursuit, if you want to realize what good LP playback can offer.
Not that I like the prices any more than you do.
Bill Hart