Because there are other approximate replacements for far far cheaper. Whereas the approximate replacements for a centerfire handgun are similarly priced.

Many gun buyers are looking at getting handguns as opposed to specifically desiring a wheel or auto. When a .45 auto and wheel are similarly priced, and 38 and comparable 9mm options are similarly priced they would think rimfires would be too.

When one perfectly suitable, similar quality .22 handgun is available for $350 the $700 equivalent is deemed to be way too expensive.

They don't care about cost to make it, nor economy forces, and I don't blame them or think they should know better. If the desire specifically for a revolver isn't there they are overpriced.