Hello
The rental rates seam high but that is common for academies. It's
probably safe to assume this is partly because they keep there
equipment in good condition with good avionics. I got my PPL at an FBO
here in Iowa for $50 to $55per hour for a cessna 150. Instruction was
$30/hr which is common. I now own a c150 and joined an aero club where
instruction is $25/hr and a c150 rents for $47/hr. Training at an
academy will be more consistent of a schedule when compared to an FBO.
As far as a job if you have a working visa I would recomend working the
line at an FBO and eventually instructing there. Expect to spend more
time than is shown in the training sylabus but probably not much more
than 250 hrs by the time your ready for the commercial. You will
however have more dual time than is listed which is not a bad thing
(accounting for checkouts in aircraft, proficiency when you want to try
something new). After receiving your license there are other ways to
build time than renting, you just have to look for them. Try joining
CAP or finding somebody needing a safety pilot after you get your
private certificate. Looks like its based at a fun airport.
Best wishes

Mike W