Yeah, it's more expensive - in this case because of the changes and separate operators on every part of the journey.
I could potentially swap one train for a bus and then take different train and skip one of the buses saving some £5 but extending trip by about a hour at least.
Taxi across the town is £20, Uber usually 5-10. There are no other providers.
Taxi from my airport (some 15 miles away) is £60-80, Uber usually £30-ish. Public transportation (2 trains + 2 buses) over £50.
I wish I had an option.