If these animals are only kept for the joy of keeping, not for profit or to "pay for themselves," then does it really matter what prices do?
I mean, if you're not in it for the money, and I would guess that many who have posted in this thread have publicly stated that they do not breed for the money, then what possible difference can it make to you what the average price is?
And, if that price is inconsequential, of no importance because you do not breed to make money, then why, if you would be so kind as to explain to one of my limited faculties, is there so much complaining about prices?