I want a dSLR camera under $1000?

I'm thinking about the EOS Rebel T2i or a comparable Nikon. I'd like some first hand advice and also thoughts of the best prices online… Ideally for a kit/bundle. I just got the Canon s95 which I don't think is that great. I should have put the money towards a dSLR.

You are very worried about your budget - I hope you're aware of all the other costs that come with such a camera.

Even if/when you DO find a DSLR plus lens in your price range, there will always be way more expenses ahead.

You'll want and/or need a few other things such as tripod, filters, a bag, sensor cleaning gear, a second battery, memory cards, perhaps a remote shutter release etc.

That's just the small stuff - I can guarantee you that you'll also want more lenses. You'll probably buy cheap ones at first, then regret that, then start saving for the good quality ones, instead.
You'll also want a decent flash some day.

See how that list just goes on and on?
Owning a DSLR isn't cheap - at least not until you have built up a nice stash of gear. When you look at an advertised kit price, you do NOT see all the other gear that need/want with it.

Just some food for thought… I'm not trying to talk you out of this, just trying to be helpful in case you haven't thought about all this yet.