I print using an Epson Artisan 1430 and an iMac, and I do sometime have an issue with the computer not automatically reconnecting with this printer after the printer has been off for a while. I also have an Epson 635 and don't encounter this problem with this printer; go figure!
Anyway, if the Artisan 1430 won't connect after a minute or so, I just open Preferences/Printer & Scanners on the iMac, delete and immediately reinstall the printer and away I go. It only takes a few seconds and isn't a complicated process. When printing, I utilize the Epson Print Layout software exclusively, which allows me more latitude in printing over the Artisan 1430 software.
I calibrate my 5k display every so often, but it usually needs very little or no adjustment when I do. I also keep my monitor brightness at 50% or just a little less. I initially found my prints were too dark as a result of setting my monitor brightness too high, and the resultant effect it had upon my photo editing. Overall, using the printer with an iMac is fairly easy and straightforward.
As far as price, I read very recently that most printers employing ink cartridges use ink at a rate so as to cost about $1 per-square-foot. With price increases, that is going up a bit, and I've never tested that claim, but would love to hear anyone with information about it. Even if ink were $2 per-square-foot, it is still inexpensive compared to a print shop: my local pharmacy has a print service and they charge about $15 for a 12-by-18-inch print. If I print it myself, the paper I use is about $2, and ink is about $3 maximum, so without the cost of the printer included, I print for about $5 compared to $15 for the lab. Plus I don't have to drive out to pick up my prints!