I bought my home in the middle of nowhere in New England four years ago for $220k. I could sell it tomorrow for $400k. If I wanted to test my luck, I'd be able to sell it in 2-3 months for $450/500k.
The median _family_ income for my area is $52k/year (2007-2011).
Things are fucked for the average person.
I keep coming back to the Player Piano[0]. It really is the "Reeks and Wrecks" vs. the Doctors.