“The idea that buying is the only responsible path to building wealth worked well for previous generations... But today’s market is different.” The rent vs. buy question doesn't have a universal answer anymore, and the math is surprising. Zillow Home Trends Expert Amanda Pendleton joined Vivian Tu on the Your Rich BFF podcast to break it down. The data shows that nationwide, buyers break even in six years—and just four years in Midwestern markets like Columbus and Indianapolis. But in coastal metros like San Francisco, renting wins out even after 30 years. Disciplined renters who invest the amount of a typical San Francisco down payment in the stock market, instead of in a house, come out $564K ahead of a buyer after 30 years. Where do you stand on renting vs. buying in your city?

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