If we are looking at stock class as the beginner friendly class, I don't think it has worked out that way.
Stock class or another spec class that specs on the motor primarily (ala 19T) is pretty expensive when you get down too it. It may have the initial illusion up front that its cheap, but all it takes is one pass through the pits to see where all the dollars are being spent. Is this something that is a problem at every track, of course not.
I think as prices start to come down, brushless will become more affordable as an entry point. Heck, I see traxxas brushless buggys for sale NIB for $250 shipped. add your battery and charger and go. Thats pretty cheap running.