I don't know what kind of welder your looking for but i just bought a Hobart 187 for only $640 shipped from these guys
http://www.farmandfleet.com/ i was in the same boat your in a few weeks ago, i bought 3 welders and a plasma from my local welding place and when i went about getting another one they wouldn't give me any kind of deal they wanted over $100 more. I told the guy i felt bad because i always try helping out the local and smaller shops first but when money is tight you have to take care of yourself first.