Beginner needs advice

[EddyCurrent]

Greg,
First you need to identify the type of software for your purpose, i.e. is it 2D, 2.5D, 3D ?
Once you identify that it will narrow things down, also have you read the threads on this site about software ?
A lot of software allows trial downloads, I did this myself and found that my preference for CAM was Vectric Cut3D and Cut2D, it's mostly about personal preference so trying the software first is best.
I think CAD is more difficult, if Sketchup + the free DXF,STL export addon will do your job then it's all free but if you need to buy software then the sky's the limit where cost comes in. From what I've seen Rhino is highly regarded and there's the still free Autodesk Fusion (links near bottom of page), Autodesk Labs Inventor Fusion
I also think it's better to go for separate CAD / CAM software becasue when they are combined into one program you seldom get the right features together.