A footlong NY Italian at my local sub shop with like 4 kinds of meat and a ton of veggies on it costs $9. It's better than subway in literally every way. The people who work there are chill and seem to like it too

Oh man, you've never had a good Rueben then. Good corned beef, a pile of kraut, swiss, fresh rye bread (or sourdough), and that thousand island and/or spicy mustard. Grilled up and served with a pickle spear and some fresh chips.

Making one is not cheap, though not a lot more than your typical burger. But, a 14 usd price is reasonable when you factor in labor. I've paid more than that for a truly great Rueben where the corned beef was made in house, and the bread came from an attached bakery. Completely, totally worth twenty bucks.

Our closest deli that's like the kind of deli in bigger cities charges 15 and some change for their Rueben that comes with a pickle, potato chips, and a drink. I ain't mad at that price even though it makes it a rare treat.

Which, I get you, you led off with IMO which means you're speaking only for yourself, so I'm not saying your opinion is wrong, or trying to change your opinion! Just giving my opinion on the matter of expensive sandwiches for my own tastes.

If I could have the best burger I've ever had right in front of me right now, I'd pay ~$25 for it. The cost we pay for top-notch sandwiches is typically a search cost.

I'm willing to pay a decent amount for Schlotzkys tbh. But they'd have to exist in my area first.

I can either: A. Drive to fuckin' Toledo Or B. Drive to Kentucky.

That's a common price for any entree at most restaurants in my state. Indian, Thai, American (burgers), Italian, etc. Fast casual and casual dining all have many items in that price range. Most want tips on top as well. There are many sandwiches I'm willing to spend $15 or more on.