You can get an amazing PRS Custom 24 (not private stock though) for around £2.5k which similar if not less to what comparable gibson les paul models cost.
Also, not all PRS guitars are expensive.
If you are looking for a cheaper guitar, then PRS also makes guitars in Korea, minimizing the labour and other costs. They are called SE models, and cost around £500 - £800 and the quality of those is very very good. Just go to a music store and try a £600 PRS SE Custom 24 and you will be very surprised how great a cheaper guitar can feel and sound.