For decades, the classic rule of thumb for housing has been simple: spend no more than 30% of your income on rent or a mortgage. But for many Gen Z renters, the rule feels almost laughable. In cities across North America, rent has climbed far faster than wages, and entry-level salaries often collide with record-high housing prices, student loan payments, and rising living costs. The result is that millions of young adults are spending far more than 30% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads.