Im not very vocal on these boards but the prices in Austin are insane. Im lucky to travel the world. Berlin, London, Sydney, Amsterdam and Hong kong to name just a few and Austin is by far the most expensive and also the worst in relation to quality/variety.
3 to 5 years ago I would try different providers all the time in austin as prices were on par with other locations and I would also say austin had decent variety with much higher quality. Now I see the same 2/3 ladies, as i have no reason to try new providers because the prices are ridiculous and when i have tried someone new, I have been disappointed or flaked on.
I can only assume that the demand is so high that it must be money central for the providers right now as its the only logical explanation for how they can charge these rates. Im just lucky that I can get my fix in other ways, Im assuming other folks are stuck with the current situation if they don't travel.
Alternatively I could just be spoiled because i get to go to other markets where supply out performs demand and it has adjusted my perspective.