Easier as a developer perhaps. Does that not require init scripts to keep it running if the server is restarted? (I'm not sure how the typical node package is configured).

Yes, also, this requires being able to, having access to, and having money for a virtual machine. Most newbies start with free or nearly-free shared hosting services.

I like that Google App Engine can run Flask, for example, while abstracting away all production logic; we need more things like that.

cPanel claims to have support for RoR. Who knows, they might support node too one day. Won't hold my breath waiting, though.