Do you want to pay a high price or do you want a better rum? The two things are not exclusive to each other. A bottle of McCoy 12 for $45 isn't too hard to find and is phenomenal for a sipping spirit at that price point. If you're a bourbon drinker, I would compare it to Eagle Rare in quality and price.
Bacardí Carta Blanca, Havana Club Anejo, Doorlys XO, Diplomatico Mantuano are all somewhat widely available in the $25 range and good for mixing and sipping. IMO, all of these are an upgrade over Sailor Jerry.