Yes solar is expensive to set up. The most expensive part used to be the solar panels but they have been dropping in price quick. Most people think it’s still the batteries. Depends how creative you are. Check this youtube channel out:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcMfCkN1juSa49DJFYltOTw

This guy gets really creative to off grid on a budget. He builds whole house battery banks for hundreds of dollars out of all kinds of different batteries and teaches you how to as well. He does the same thing for his VW Van he converted to electric. Have been enjoying his videos so much I have to share them.