35 years ago 45% of residents were tenants similar to today. Saddled with student loans ($10-100k+), many will not be able to buy a home for years, one $1+ trillion debt.

One compromise that is not completely satisfactory: a tiny house movement has _chapters_ in 50 states: these may set the bar too low but at least satisfy the need for private space for those who want to own something and be free spirits. (Some can cost 100+k.)  I saw one with a garden on top.

But perhaps next gen is rethinking American dreams. Job mobility seems a given: Clinton said when President that an average youth would have 12 different jobs. Now robots are taking over more jobs – restaurants using wireless devices is just a continuum. (Let's thank the dishwasher inventor however!) 

When buying online or from warehouses, consider that often local jobs and upward mobility are adversely impacted. I boycott Starbucks and many others because they have caused so many local cafes and businesses to disappear.