$2K for the cheapest possible build. Add in a couple upgdades (1TB SSD, 32GB RAM) and it isn't hard to hit $3K+. There are great machines but a bit too pricey for my liking.
I think the price point sets the stage for a lower cost offering in the $699-$1299 range that will not be branded as "pro" and will likely have more of the eco cores and incredible battery life.
it's called the macbook air
$699 Macbook is not happening. The $1000-$1500 range is filled by the Macbook Air and the 13" Macbook Pro (which really doesn't deserve the Pro tag).
Three years ago, my COO bought a $5,100 MacBook Pro.
A virtual machine here or there for your spreadsheet and email apps and it really starts adding up.
The top end is now above $6k, though most of that is down to the $2k you drop on an 8TB SSD.