Birding is a great low cost hobby. Of course nice birding equipment can add up, but it is not a necessity.
You can attract birds to your yard with bird feeders, bird seed that they like, and bird baths. Or you can go birding at parks, wildlife preservations, wetlands, and more. A google search will tell you what birds to out look for in your area.
An app such as Merlin Bird ID can match bird sounds and tell you which bird you hear.
The National Audubon Society hosts meetings and educational events.
reddit.com/r/birding is another resource.
Tips
– Wear colors that blend in with the surroundings
– Go early in the morning when the birds are the most active and hungry
– Use the Merlin Bird ID app to identify birds around you
– Walk / talk quietly
– Move slowly
– Don’t point
Happy Birding!