The GI bill was involved too. Lots of people took advantage of that to get ahead, and most of them earned the right. In 1956 my starting salary in the USAF was $78 monthly. I could have used the GI Bill, but did not.
I wish for every one the level of success they desire and are willing to work for.
For some people that will mean a upscale apartment near all the trendy hot spots, for some that will mean a huge house with a speck of a yard and for some people that will mean a tiny house with a big yard. Whatever makes them happy.
My dream place about an acre with fruit trees and a garden and about 1,200 square feet of house.
When I enlisted in the US Navy in '61 it was all the way up to $88.00! But I did use my GI bill for a few terms in community college and a home.