RANT: Why are model rockets so expensive??

My 9yo got obsessed with rockets after watching some YouTube videos and wants to build one. Thought it would be a fun DIY project. Looked into Estes kits and they're like $40-60 just for a kit. Then you need engines, launch pads, recovery wadding... I'm looking at $150+ easy. For something that flies for 30 seconds. Am I being cheap or is this actually insane pricing?