<prompt> Human: Ive been renting a room in Downtown Portland for 600month including utilities, etc for the past two years. No rent rise, good friends with the owner.I have saved a ton of money staying here I think. The average rent in the area is 1300 for a single apartment. The housing situation here is extremely expensive and shows no signs of getting cheaper, 10 increase in housing yoy. nbsp;My parents are saying that with a house there are tax deductions I could be making, that its a good long term investment, and Id be getting equity. They are really pushing for this and its getting annoying. They are telling me my rent money isnt getting me anything. But: nbsp; I may only be here 3-5 years? The average house in Portland is 400k! I could do 10 down, but dont want to pay PMI. nbsp; LifeJobFinance situation: Mid twenties, single Work at a fintech startup as a Software Engineer 120kyear. Only been there 1 year. 40,000 cash saved up, doesnt include retirementother investments Student loan 2000 4.0 No car, use only public transportation nbsp; Im thinking given my timeframe, market conditions I think the market is just too hot right now, and current lifestyle it may not be worth it. I would have to relocate outside of downtown, for something affordable, and buy a car to commute. I really enjoy the car free lifestyle at the moment. nbsp; Is it worth it to buy a house or should I continue to rent? Any recommendations are appreciated. nbsp; Thank you.  <response>: If youre only paying 600 a month for rent in Portland, then I think thats the best thing you could do. If you bought a house, youd be paying WAY more than that just in interest on the mortgage. Save the house buying for later in life. 