If you're referring the costs that I quoted, well, go to Target.com and look at the prices, yourself. (Target is where I typically shop.) I'm not trying to sell anyone on the idea, (I've never used any CFLs) -- I just looked it up out of curiosity.
60-watt, 4-pack, standard = $4.19
60-watt, 4-pack, long life = $8.19
13-watt (60-watt output), 4-pack, CFL (swirly) = $12.48
15-watt (60-watt output), 2-pack, CFL (globe) = $13.10
So, for 30 bulbs:
Standard = $31.43
Long life = $61.43
CFL swirly = $93.60
CFL globe = $196.50
I'm a data geek.
Bullgrit
... which puts the lower cost difference for CFL for 30 bulbs at about $60, twice what I posted. At the middle end the difference is about $160. (And, there are higher cost bulbs with additional features, e.g., spectrum choices, or dimmer friendly.) At what seems a stretch, the long life to cfl swirly difference is just slightly more than $30, so that matches.
I wonder what the markup is for these. For buying 30 (or more), some additional discount might be possible. Hmm ...
http://www.amazon.com/GE-13-Watt-Energy-SmartTM-replacement/dp/B000NISDNU
Has an eight pack for $14, or actually less than an eight pack of long life bulbs. That would be about $48 for 30 bulbs!
But, on the other hand ...
http://www.lightbulbsdirect.com/page/001/CTGY/CF_GIB
Has globe types at $8.50
each for quantities of 12 or more. ($9.92 each for fewer than 12 bulbs.) That would be $255 (!!) for 30.
My own experience has been that the cost has been much higher than what was listed. And, these are only recently becoming close to equivalent replacements.
I found in actual use, the bulb shape and light dispersal matters enough to prevent a simple replacement with the cheapest option. For example, replacing bulbs for a vanity mirror, which required globe type frosted bulbs with even dispersion.
Not saying there isn't still a cost saving, just that the data needs to be looked at closely for accuracy, and the particulars of the bulb usage can dramatically increase the price.
My gut says that LEDs will win out in the end, even though they have the highest initial cost. But, my value point is probably different than that of a lot of folks, so that's said with a bit of hesitation.
Thx!
TomB