I know a lot of young people these days that have to live in crowded share houses because there's nothing else they can afford in the area where they work, and still 70%+ of their income goes towards rent and board.

Where I'm from, the cost of living has skyrocketed compared to when I was starting out, but the wages haven't changed. I've benefited greatly from that due to capital gains, but it makes it a lot harder for Gen Z to achieve the same thing, even if they do scrimp and save. I can understand people being demoralised and living for today instead, as it seems impossible to improve your position by much.