FAA minimums require a minimum of 40 hours of flying to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate.  We see closer to 45-50 hours once all is said and done.

40 hours broken down:
20 hours flight training with an instructor.  Usually 30 hrs is more realistic.
10 hour by yourself as ‘solo’ time.

The DA20 airplane at $160/hr and instructor at $65/hr for an average of 30-35 hours is 6,750 to $7,875.
The DA20 airplane at $160/hr for your solo time of 10-12 hours is $1,600 to $1,920.

Books such as a logbook, Airplane Flying Handbook, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, and a 2022 Private Test Prep by ASA to assist in your self study can be obtained for well less than $100.

FAA 3rd, 2nd, or 1st class Medical Certificate and exam. $150

Headset. $250-$1,250. Dependent on the quality of headset you purchase.  We have headsets to borrow!!

Ground school.  Generally a student will complete an online course followed by continued check-in and mentoring and/or one on one training with the Instructor (15-20 hours at $65/hr). We recommend an online course by MzeroA.  It is between $100-$150 per month and we recommend completion within 2-3 months.
$750-$1,550 based on your ability to grasp the knowledge as well as how much time is spent on your own compared to with an instructor.

Written (computer test) Test.  $150

Check ride.  Your final test with an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. $600 examiner fee and approximately 1.5/hr in the airplane. $850.00

Total cost:
Average cost of roughly $9,500 to $12,500 is realistic.  12K is actually on the higher side.  Some clients may take less or more time based on their skill level.