Saw77
Yes in a very similar position but completed my PPL around 4 years ago and even started the hour building, have around 80 hours now. However your right it is not a cheap hobby, couple that with trying to remain current to fly club aircraft every 28 days, weather and family restraints its a challenge. I started when I was 33 with the ultimate goal of going to the Airlines, seven years ago the industry was in a better place and I thought I would make it.
I have just let my SEP lapse this year due to lack of hours and also just turning 40 last month the odds are now stacked against me to go commercial. I am in the same boat is it worth continuing as a hobby due to cost. Or I have got this far I could gamble the lot go commercial for probably a poor return. Its difficult to even get time to complete the training due to wife, kids and time off work to complete ATPL exams which I started to study. Unless you have the time, money, work life balance and are confident you can get a job quickly its difficult, but I am sure it can and has been done by someone. If you meet that person let me know.