Not everything comes down to money, enjoyment is goal. I think all hobbies cost money. Mine is not heated and because under a certain size not not raise my taxes
I've grown thyme and other herbs in flowerpots indoors, specifically for use in recipes. It sort of depends on how many houseplants I have at the time that determine if I have room for growing herbs at any given time.
Carol Dee, I have to say that I can't really tell much difference between "the stuff in a jar" (altho I do buy all organic dried herbs) versus fresh herbs plucked from a plant. But if I have a growing plant on a windowsill, I will use it.
Thyme and basil are my two most often used "go-to" herbs. I put them in everything from spaghetti sauce to eggs to fish and then some. You just can't beat home fries seasoned with thyme and black pepper!