AKL is cheaper because it is new and hasn't attracted a big following yet, probably in part due to a lot of the misconceptions I've seen repeated here.
First, the transportation. I've seen one post say it was "sub-par" and this just isn't true. The Bus Service at AKL is SUPERIOR to all the other resorts as it doesn't share a bus. Surely some people will occasionally have a bad bus experience (as happened here) but I have stayed at AKL 5 times and it is exemplery, which is the predominant opinion on this board, as well.
Second, someone said there is nothing to do at the Resort...Does the word zoo mean anything? Not to mention a huge pool & many interactive programs with CM's. If animals, learning about them & their native habitat at your hotel would not impress you, DO NOT stay at the AKL.
Third, the room size. This has no bearing on the cost...It is simply supply & demand.
Fourth, location and the AKL is "way out there" theme. It is true there is no other entertainment within walking distance. If you need that, the Boardwalk area hotels are for you. But it is complete fallacy that AKL is "out there". It is 2 minutes from AK, (a short) 5 from MGM & Epcot & 12-15 from the MK...Hardly isolated in the hinterlands.
Certainly the AKL as with every other Disney hotel will not be for everybody (which is a good thing) but if you want to stay at the AKL for these reasonable prices I'd do it now because once it catches on, $200 bucks per night will be bargain basement.
Oh, there is a rumor floating around (pun intended) that WDW is looking at boat service to AK (from AKL). There is water there but canals would have to be dug...AND a walking path is currently being considered as well.