My previous two used cars have been ~$600 and ~$800 and they've been running reliably for years. Maybe you just need to know where to look? I do live in a more rural area.
I wouldn't be surprised if location matters. My experience is in the greater phoenix area (not being vague, my search radius covered the entire phoenix metro, queen creek to glendale). I searched craigslist, independent used car lots, regular dealerships, ebay, and lots around town where people park cars for private sale.