This is quite true! I wouldn't expect a real fighter to ever have a rapier, in any case - but having one certainly implies that A: you've got at least some disposable income and B: you're a civilian. 

That said, status symbol or no, in many parts of the world you COULD get a decent sword without too much of a stretch. It's just that once you get the sword you also have to get the training to use it and that can take time and money if you're not a soldier...