If I have to buy it then it's anywhere from $3-7 for a small bale. I prefer not to pay for it but if I need mulch in early summer a couple bales of straw can go a long way.

Usually I watch or post to craigslist and can find old spoiled bales for free. Hopefully the great big pile up in Broomfield Co. is still there and I can load up my truck soon.

In the fall, watch for people using them for decorations. After Halloween and Thanksgiving you may be able to pick up some freebies. People buy them for decoration then don't know what to do with them and often are happy to have you haul them away.

Last year I think I got 23 bales... This year I used some self control and only picked up 3 more.

I pay $5.00 for "weed free" bales up here in Northern Colorado, but if your area has a Freecycle group, you could check there, as well. That's how I get a TON of bagged leaves for mulching.

Here is a link that might be useful: Freecycle