I think the point is already lost if NYC is an example of affordable housing. Houston is probably a better example if you want to talk about affordable housing in a major city. But commutes in Houston are getting pretty crazy even.

> I think the point is already lost if NYC is an example of affordable housing.

NYC is actually quite affordable though. If you're willing to have a ~30 minute commute, you can easily live in some affordable places.

There are even more affordable options internationally though. Berlin, for example.