RE: looking for first rifle
In that case, I'd probably say .243 or .25-06.
The .30-'06 is seldom inappropriate for anything, but it's more than you need for the critters you've said you're chasing. With either of these cartridges, you'll end up with an easier-shooting rifle,so you'll be likely to practice more. Any rifle that will take a hog will take a deer, & vice-versa. They'll both reach out to 300 yards with no problem. And these 2 can take varmints without vaporizing them, in case you want to save the pelts. Ammo's widely available, & not too expensive, and there are a wide variety of rifles chambered for those cartridges.
Of course, these aren't the only answers, & one could make very persuasive arguments for everything from .22 hornet, or .204 Ruger, or .223, or .260, or .270, or 6.5x55, or 7mm-08...
As for rifles, do what DGH recommended: go to the store, & see which make/model follows you home! There are very few rifles that are absolute junk, so pick the one that fits you best, & you'll be happy with it. And don't forget to budget at least $150 for a scope!
FC