Well, yes. The difference in the expense as well as the flight duration. Prices for components are coming down but choosing the right components will determine how the plane flys and how much you will pay for the plane.
One thing about glow is that the power curve is pretty steady throughout the flight as fuel level burns down. With electric, you really have to learn throttle control to maintain a constant power curve for the duration. With electric, everything gets powered from the batter pack. Aggressive flying will quickly drain a battery pack. The internal combustion engine provides the power to fly and the battery pack powers the receiver and servos.
This should not be taken as a negative attitude toward electric, they are factors that you have to consider. There is more to it than noise and "the mess".
If you buy an electric aircraft that is ready to fly, meaning it is all set up with all components installed, often the power level provided for these planes leaves a bit to be desired. That's not every case, but is the case with several models that I have purchased and flown. If you buy your own components, you have to consider weight and flying style in the mix while selecting the right combination of motor and esc.
If you are really interested in electric power, go to the electric forum and read through some of the posts there. There is also a thread at the top of the Beginners Forum that explains some of the motor-esc selection factors that may help you in your decision on what plane to buy.
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_10386274/tm.htm
Scroll down to the electric selection post and read through this. It's a guide to power selection.
CGr.