This shift was already happening with "gen X" - you are describing my attitude. But owning a home was never a "dream" for me - honestly it's kind of a hassle. I've recently been thinking about selling mine, turning all that imaginary equity into real money, and going back to renting. I'd be able to move back in closer to where the action is, and I'd waste less of my time and money dealing with unpredictable maintenance problems. Homeownership can be an OK investment, but it's not really that great, and you can have a lot more flexibility and security if you just stick all that money into an index fund.