This hasn't been true for a long time now. The cost of housing has far outpaced wages and even houses in and around smaller cities sell for high prices because

This hasn't been true for a long time now. The cost of housing has far outpaced wages and even houses in and around smaller cities sell for high prices because they're catering to those software developers working remote but wanting to live somewhere near society. Considering I'm in my 30s and have been working in a software job and cannot afford a home, I strongly suggest reevaluating your metrics.