What is the best digital camera I can buy for $1000?

I suggest Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-135mm.It take sharp and goos quality pictures.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000HGIWN4?ie=UTF...

If you are really on a budget and want the best quality for the money, check out the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 which is reviewed at:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/panaso...

It just came out on November 4, 2008.

It's an all-in-one 10.1 megapixel DSLR camera which includes (i) built-in image stabilization; (ii) HDTV quality video [Quicktime]; (iii) a 18x zoom [27 - 486 mm (35mm equiv.)] "Leica" lense for nature photography; (iv) up to 0.39 inch macro option; (v) up to 6400 ASA; (vi) takes up to 380 pictures per 120 min. battery charge; (vii) has a "burst speed" of 13 fps; and sells new for $270 at amazon.com.

Here's an actual handheld picture of the moon:

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/d5/...

Good luck!

I would say the Canon EOS SLR 10 Megapixel. I have one and by far its been the best.

http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRICE8.HTM this link will be a list digital cameras per your budget. You can compare the model on http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/sidebyside.asp