Pricing for everything will depend on your location as usually, labor is at least 50% of any landscaping/building installation.

I don't have experience with Kool Deck but I would be very concerned if the example the PB showed you already had issues. What does the PB say about that?

Not sure what you mean about orange clay staining. Was it on the surface or did it seem to be part of material? If it's in the material, it could have been in the water used to mix the material. BTW, welcome to the South and orange clay everywhere.

A discussion about Kool Deck

In my 35 + years in this trade, I've only seen a handful of Kool Deck patios look good,

Stamped concrete is another. Not a fan.

If either of these are used, and the patio has to be broken up for any repair below, there's no way a patching job will match up.

I would consider pavers. Pavers will fade over time, but the surface can be cleaned and a sealer can be applied. My paver contractor does this and the results are beautiful.

As far as cost, it varies region to region.

I agree a paver stone deck is good to look at and as mentioned a better choice if there are ever issues. I have not had experience with cooldeck but IMO if the one your contractor took you to see was aleady not good that says it all to me.