Do most people own their own home in New York, London, or Paris? I don't think so...
Where are you getting the idea that it's normal to be able to own a home in a major desirable city and global economic hub?
Where are you getting the idea that it's normal to be able to own a home in a major desirable city and global economic hub?
Quick Streeteasy eyeballing around 86 suggests the maintenance need not be $1500 either -- you either get a fancy elevator building at that price, or you get a walkup at a lower price than $650k.
Also, you pay property taxes (higher on new purchases), maintenance, and so forth in CA too.