To maximize energy levels and promote muscle growth, you need not only healthy foods, as Rodney mentioned, but also high quality foods.
Carbs from whole grains (i.e., brown rice, whole wheat bread) are usually more expensive than carbs from refined grains (i.e., white rice, white bread, etc.)
The best source of protein is arguably seafood, but a pound of fresh caught fish can be three to four times more expensive than a pound of chicken breasts.
Organic fruit is usually at least a couple of dollars more expensive than its non-organic counterpart.
You may also occasionally treat yourself to some fine wine (I know I do!), which is very expensive. Beer has too many carbs and calories. Liquor is low in calories, but the high alcohol content dehydrates you.
As I said in this thread a while ago, I decided to eat healthy about four years ago. I spend more money on food than ever before. I also spend more time preparing food than ever before, which takes much more effort than simply buying and eating junk food.
I also believe the goal of eating properly and exercising is to become a healthier and happier person physically and mentally, which results in a better society. Only a small fraction of men will ever look like Jeff Cavilere, especially at such age. In my humble opinion, the focus always ought to be on health and less so on weight loss, abs, muscle growth, etc. Unrealistic expectations are what causes lots of men and women to quit their dietary and workout regimen.
