1998 Chrysler Cirrus Won't Start

I drove it yesterday, and the only problems I've had with it (in the week since I bought it!) Have been that it takes a moment for the engine to turn over.
When I turn the key, the mileage lights up, and the little indicator for what gear I'm in. But not a single sound comes from the engine. And the clock and radio don't work, no matter which way to turn the key. But the windows and the lights work fine!
A friend suggested that it's a bad wire (we already checked the fuses), and I'm wondering how long this will take, and how expensive it's likely to be.
Thanks!