The geometry is a major factor here...a criterium bike with tight angles ought to be a different frame size than a touring bike. Stem length is really important as well. Good bike stores will have a 'fit kit' or comparable system that will determine the ideal frame dimensions depending on the tipe of bike/rider/etc.
Visited Revolution Cycles in Rockville at lunch, they will custom fit you to a bike for about $150. Buy a high end bike and they'll throw in the fitting. I asked the guy, who was otherwise helpful, if there was a "break point" on pricing where you get great value, and he started at the $3,400 Trek carbon fibre model.
