If it's DC, you can get a better one around $3xxx.-
If you prefer DSLR, the budget is not good enough. The Canon 350D is around $65xx (Body + Kit Lens). The Nikon D70 is around $69xx (Body + Kit Lens)...
It's still far from your budget... Do you mind 2nd hand goods? I checked DcFever, the 2nd hand price is around / meet your budget.
Use DSLR is not just simple as DC... It's recommended to read DSLR manual at least twice... and understand most of the features...
Otherwise, if you only use P mode only, then it's not worth to use $$ to buy it...
On the other hand, if you use DSLR, you also need to learn post processing skills... like basic Photoshop technique... (modify level / curve etc)
If you want a better image quality, you may use RAW format. Then, you also need to learn those software to process RAW files... like Capture One Pro / Photoshop CS or native RAW software come with the camera.
So, do you consider DSLR... or DC? I don't think the cost of DSLR is $5K or less...(including basic assessories) DC should be fine.
Thank you so much! Yours information is quite useful and detail. And now I think DC is much suitable for me. Because I think DSLR is quite difficult to use. Normally, I take photo use auto function only.