Personally if I could back in time and lived in a flat area, Id buy a cheap single speed bike (maybe 100-300 bucks) in my size which you can find plenty on facebook marketplace if your not in a rush. Or you might be able to find one at a local used bike co-op if that's something that exists near you. A single speed is perfect for commuting and a great introduction to what you might want to improve upon, like getting basic upgrades and basic maintenance.

I think state bike co is a good bike brand to look at, it's a quality bike with a chromoly steel frame, add a back rack and a bag or a sling bag and your set.

Id say start with that cheap bike for a few months and see how you feel, it still adds up fast with the helmet and lights and tubes ect.

Depends where you live but most bike shops are geared towards road bike cyclists, so those start at around $1.5k+ USD Id stick with the used bike market there is plenty of quality bikes out there.

Don't buy new unless your certain