I had the same argument with a guy at work who made the same salary as me.
He said that he couldn't afford a house because his rent was too high. He wasn't willing to forgo the extra bedroom, and laundry room. (he was single and didn't want roommates.)
Now, I live in a house that is twice as big as his current apartment, and paying less in mortgage than his rent. (just by living like a college student for 3 years; with a roommate)