Over the past 45 years we've had 6 Golden's. The first 2 were pups, next 3 were senior rescues, and #6 was found online at the local SPCA. They said he was about 1 year, very wild, I'm thinking a runaway. That was in 2009, and he's still doing fine. Slowed down a lot but still in good health. In our area, the rescue people won't consider you for a younger dog unless you have a fenced yard. We don't, never have, and would never just "put him out" in a yard anyway. There were some gaps along the way when we just couldn't find the "right" dog.
You are absolutely right about breeder prices. They charge top dollar, and health and planned longevity are always a crap shoot.
There may be some Golden Rescue people in your area. They usually have a web site, and you can decide on that. It has to be/feel right for you and your family. Maybe also give the Petfinder site a look. You can limit your search area, and it's also breed specific.
Good luck! It's not as easy as we remember growing up, but keep your options open, and it will work out.