renter- forever?

I have rented in Bellingham on and off since 2008. I am employed full time and have a master's degree and I live paycheck to paycheck. This feels like my community but it is hard to imagine ever buying a home here because I pour my money into rent. Rent keeps sky rocketing. It seems I have to choose between having multiple roommates or living alone in student housing managed by property management companies looking to scam people. Compared to others, I am in a privileged position, so what does that say about the situation? It's hard to imagine a future here when I am not in the position of inheriting a home from family- that's how I see most 30-somethings staying, they often grew up here and their parents bought a home back when that was possible. I'm contemplating leaving if the situation doesn't improve.