Hell, here in DC you can get generic store-brand Ramen for up to 15 for a buck.
Best deal I've seen for Ramen is 8 for a buck, but I don't often go looking for it.
It's nice to keep a couple around the house, though, as a quick snack or the base for a nice quick dinner.
I'll add sliced cooked chicken and some veggies to a Ramen and have a quick and filling soup.
Alton Brown also used Ramen as the base for a casserole in his one show.