Easier to get into it if you already know some people who play it. That way you feel a little less awkward while role playing a fantasy character for the first time, and they're experienced enough to ease you into the game. That's how I started anyway, bout 10 months ago (I'm 20 myself, couple college friends invited me to try it out), and now I'm in a few campaigns. Even some D20 which I've found I like better (just like guns and tech I guess), but a good session of D&D is always welcome.
The difficulty on finding people who play it depends where you live. Some places have plenty of D&Ders, others... not so many. A game store is a good place to start (like an actual bored game store, not a video game store obviously.) Hopefully you can find some one with some experience to at least DM for you.
All in all, I say go for it and try the game out. I think it can be tons of fun. Preferably get some hands on experience with the game before you buy it yourself, but if it comes down to it, do what you gotta do.