There are plenty of beekeepers who keep just a couple hives. I'd guess most of the beekeepers I know locally have less than 20 hives. Like many hobbies, the costs will be greater than what you produce (honey), at least at first. But it's not terribly expensive as a hobbies go. The starter kit (see the link) runs around $300, which includes just about everything you need to start, minus the bees. Add bees and a 2nd hive (I'd always recommend 2 hives minimum), and you could be talking $600.

But there are lots of ways to save money. A full suit isn't necessary (a veil, jeans and a white oversize long sleeve shirt will do.), assembling the hive parts yourself will save money and shipping costs (only a hammer and glue is really needed for this), etc. Finding a local distributor or beekeeper with new or used equipment could help even more.

Here is a link that might be useful: starter kit

Oh, I'm really excited!!! Thanks for the information! Maybe I will try to find some central Indiana beekeepers to see if I can "observe" for a while. :)

Julia,

visit www.IndianaBeekeepingSchool.com

Here is a link that might be useful: click here