Is $1,800 to replace pool pump with a 1.5 hp variable motor pump a fair price?

I bought the house a few years ago; it was built in '07. My pool guy's team replaced the filter cartridge a few weeks ago, and the pump stopped working within the last couple of weeks. I don't remember the wires being broken, and I assumed they were the issue. I work in construction, and the price for the new pump seems high to me, but I'm not a pool expert. I've since found out the breaker for the pump and heater was flipped, but the pump still doesn't work. I'm also unsure why a variable speed motor is needed, as everyone seems to be suggesting it.