In Missouri, the local Hancock's Fabric (Not Hancock's of Paducah) has fat quarters on sale pretty frequently for 99 cents, or 1.49. The fabric is not as nice as quilt shop fabric, but it's ok.
I can't imagine having to pay the high prices that our European friends pay. But then, other things are cheaper there, (or free) that we pay dearly for in the states. So maybe it balances out?