It's a sport very similar to motorcycles, except that we are self regulated. With that in mind, I will answer with a generic response:
We are blessed with very good instructors here in the Bay Area. They offer training that is tailored to a person, with zero knowledge of free flight, and will coach you up to obtaining a P2 rating. Most of them include all the gear rental and teaching time for a flat rate of ~$1700-1900. The initial cost may seem high, but something to keep in mind; when you sign up for a program, they rarely put a time constraint on it. I have seen some people get their rating in about 6 days on the hill. Others take months and the instructors make the commitment to continue training.
At some point, when you are ready, they are the best to set you up with your first set of gear. The kit is pretty complex and it simplifies the first couple years. That kit includes everything you will need to continue learning and progressing. Ballpark, depending on any options - $5500-6000.
For about $7500, you can enter into a sport completely naive, and be flying P2 rated launches and landing zones. Most sites, around the world, require a P3 rating. That is mainly accruing enough flights, and demonstrating skills. My instructor included future ratings in the initial training. I have been working, flying, and traveling with him since 2014.
After some time, you lose your mind and start collecting harnesses, wings, and exploring different styles of flying. Very much like motorcycles, where you may start riding dirt, then expand into street bikes, then may venture off into adventure riding, or distance, or cruisers, etc.
A lot of the instructors will do introductory classes. A morning on the training hill. They will strap you up to wing and show you the basics. First one is free, basically.
* The above example isn't the only way I have seen pilots get into the sport and get going, but it is the text book answer.
James