Better returns directly on the money (given historical averages hold) yes. You also have to consider I'm locking in my monthly housing cost in 2016 prices (unti

Better returns directly on the money (given historical averages hold) yes. You also have to consider I'm locking in my monthly housing cost in 2016 prices (until I pay off the mortgage that is, then I merely have to pay property taxes) also I can make improvements to my standard of living that renters can't. If I want a hot tub, I simply install one rather than having to find an apartment with one and paying a massive monthly premium for it. Rent for a decent one bedroom in my area is $1200 a month, my mortgage is $1120 (taxes and insurance included) and that gives me 3 bedrooms and a yard. For me this was the better choice.