Originally Posted by
deubster
If economy is the object in your frying pan search, cast iron certainly fills the bill and will serve you well if you properly maintain it and know its limitations. I'd look for sales on All Clad stainless. They frequently have a 10 or 12 inch frying pan for well under $100 in special promotions. You could supplement that with a $12 Lodge cast iron from World Market or Target.
Second the All Clad recommendation. They are not the cheapest but they will last forever, properly cared for. As my grandma used to say, good is cheap. You might spend $75 on a frying pan but it'll be the last one you buy.