Well, lets see. This was a while ago and I live in California.
I did the "accelerated freefall" lessons in Taft, which is off the 99 in mid California. The cost back then was $250 for the first jump, $200 for the next two and $150 for each jump after that. 7 jumps done correctly gets you certified and each jump thereafter on your own was like $40 for the ride and $25 for equipment rental, unless you bought your own stuff. After you get certified and own your own gear its kind of affordable.
No, it doesn't normally jerk you when the chute deploys, but in this case there was a bit of wind, so I'm certain I was pulled sideways a bit. It wasn't bad once I was on the ground, but it scared me. I was planning on starting up again, but after being married I have to rethink priorities.
I don't recommend a tandem jump. That's for folks who only want one jump and want to get it over with quickly and cheaply. If your serious about it, go for the certification, even if you don't finish. You will learn much more and the experience will be greater because you have a greater amount of control in the event. You will learn what a "dirt dive" is. You will learn the hand signals, what to do in an emergency situation, how to manuever, etc. You will be in charge of your own chute, flight and your own landing (with the help of a headset radio in the helmet). You have one month in between jumps to complete the certification. YMMV and cost may be different in your area.
It's just much more exciting!
Oh, and plan on landing on your butt the first time, not your feet. It just works out that way.