I posted this before looking for topics, but it kinda ended up being online support for general bicycle troubles.
Which is a good thing! Ask your questions about bicycles that are currently on your mind and we all try to help.
Pre-Emptively calling in @dallasw and @Kissmydadonthelips for their knowledge.
Gravel bikes are definitively really cool but they're the hype new thing so you'll be paying a premium on that alone.
I'd like one, don't get me wrong, but look up at what speeds anything aerodynamic actually makes a difference and then figure out whether you'll be actually riding that. If not, an XC bike with a flat bar with the same level of gear or even a hybrid is probably fine and will cost a lot less.
The general tip I'd give is buy the complexity you need. Added complexity means added maintenance means added costs.
If you're not jumping shit, do you really need the suspension fork? If there's few hills, do you really need all those gears etc. etc.
This is really well thought out advice! Thank you!