It can be very cheap or very expensive (but still cheaper than disposables) depending on what you choose. Jillian's Drawers has a cost comparison you can check out.
Warning
No formatter is installed for the format bbhtml
Our entire stash of about 30 diapers and wet bags was under $300, probably pretty close to $200. They're all pocket diapers. Comfy Rumps and Haute Bottoms. If you go with Alva or Sunbaby you could get 30 (which will last you 3ish days between washing) for about $180
we spend a little less than 300. I got every single item on sale, I spent $30 on inserts and honestly that was my 'splurge' but I got TONS of them and I haven't used them all. We haven't really used the prefolds and covers for anything more than inserts. We didn't like that style, but I love them for inserts. I've found it very easy.
Re: What is the start up cost for cloth diapers?
we spend a little less than 300. I got every single item on sale, I spent $30 on inserts and honestly that was my 'splurge' but I got TONS of them and I haven't used them all. We haven't really used the prefolds and covers for anything more than inserts. We didn't like that style, but I love them for inserts. I've found it very easy.