Best cheap zoom for my Nikon D5000?

Hi
I have a D5000, can anyone recommend a good Zoom lens. Must cost less than $400 thats my budget.

Hi
Unfortunately Best and Cheap don't normally go together.
The Nikkor 18-200mm VR would probably be the best but the cost
is above your budget.
I have used the Sigma 18-200mm OS HSM Lens for wildlife photography and
it takes crisp, clear pics. Cost $369 New and you can get it on ebay used for
about $250 - Your best bet.
PS! Nikon DX cameras need a lens with HSM as they don't have internal motor.

If you add the 55-300 mm VR ($399) to your existing 18-55 mm, you will have an excellent combination of lenses that can cover landscapes to sports and wildlife photos and everything in between

I agree that "best" and "cheap" don't work. Good lenses are expensive because high quality glass is expensive to make so it's expensive to buy. If you buy "cheap" trust me you're going to get "cheap".
You'll be much better off in the long run to wait until you have the budget for a better lens.

You should, in my opinion, consider a lens that covers both the 18-55 and the 55-300 because if you do you won't have to change lenses as often. What this does is keep dust out of your camera and off your sensor.