I have a different take on the subject, as I know how I got started and have assisted several others get a start in the reloading addiction scheme of things. I got started over 50 years ago on a Starr Universal Progressive, as I felt the "need" when I started shooting competitively.
The biggest problem for a youngster is bench space, as you do need a good bench. Living in an apartment can be a real PITA relative to reloading. If you don't have the room I'd recommend you try and partner up with someone who does.
Purchase good equipment right off the bat - that being a progressive loader with quality dies. Really only 2 choices today, those choices as I see it, are a Dillon 650 with the Dillon dies or the Hornady LnL with Redding dies. For a beginner on a budget, the Hornady is a little less expensive and much easier to change over from one caliber to another.
A youngster at the gun club just started out reloading for his 1911 and AR this past summer - this was his "starter kit" as recommended from "us" ole-timers.
Hornady LnL Progressive Reloader
45 ACP & 223 Remington shell plates for the LnL
Redding Titanium Carbide 45 ACP die set
Redding Profile Crimp die for 45 ACP
Redding National Match 223 Die Set
Hornady Case Trimmer
Lyman Tumbler Case Cleaner
Lyman or RCBS Case Prep Tool
RCBS M500 Powder Scale
RCBS Powder Trickler or small baby spoon
RCBS Primer Square Tray
Impact Bullet Puller
Total cost was around $1,400.00 when he got through purchasing bullets, powder and some brass. The bullets, brass and powder was like $400.00
Yes, it is a sizable investment but a year after purchase, the pain of spending all that money will be but a distant memory and you will have a quality reloading set-up for the rest of your life. In some respects its all relevant to what we want to achieve or do. Take annealing, some feel the need for annealing, while others don't give it a thought. Those that have a "need" for the best on the market might purchase the AMP Induction annealer and that puppy will set you back over a grand$$$.
If you can learn how to reload using a single stage press, you can do the same with a progressive - there is no difference and the learning curve is the same. If the ram on a single stage or a progressive doesn't want to go - don't push it, as something is wrong. It's usually a simple adjustment. The progressive needs to be kept clean, so a can of compressed air is usually on your bench.
Some will say it's easier to make a mistake on a progressive - not so! Have a brain fart with either type press and you've made a mistake and probably won't find out until range time.
Scared of blowing up your firearm? Don't fret about that either, as a double charge of powder will normally just get your attention. Now using the wrong powder like filling a 45 Colt case with bullseye powder, as opposed to IMR 4227, will cause damage to the firearm and possibly harm to the shooter. You hear of stories like that but I've never associated with those type of people who are that careless, so I've only read "stories".
Is it cheaper to reload - you bet plus when the dimms get back in power some day, you can expect either a huge price increase in ammunition or a shortage of ammunition - probably both. Here is where the reloader will shine if they have an ample supply of components on hand. How long will it take for you to realize a "profit" or recoup your costs? Probably like 5 to 10 years if you're not a range rat - but this "quality" equipment will last you a lifetime with minimal maintenance. Plus it's just enjoyable for some of us who enjoy all things relative to the outdoors and shooting sports.