> OTOH, pretty much everyone's social group is full of people who bought a home that has significantly appreciated in value if they've held it 20+ years (and al

> OTOH, pretty much everyone's social group is full of people who bought a home that has significantly appreciated in value if they've held it 20+ years (and also saved them a ton in housing costs). A) Inflation adjustment. Yes, the I grew up in hasn't quite doubled in value since 1989. In the mean time, the SP500 has grown 500 percent. B) Interest expenses add up. Renters don't pay principle or interest on principle. C) Some markets are hotter than others, and more volatile than others. SFBay for example, has had huge swings. D) Tax subsidies aren't calculated for long term returns. Mortgage interest deductions and capital appreciation are the two big ones. > Does this statistic really translate into "don't worry, you won't be priced out of any booking metro area"? It translates to "don't worry, you're better off renting a house anyways."