Not everyone, but the vast majority of everyone, and even those who don’t want to buy would still probably be better off with owning instead of renting.
“Going a few hundred grand in debt to buy a non-liquid asset” a house is probably the best asset you could buy for yourself, and also, do you think you’re saving money renting? Do you think a landlord is losing money on his mortgage? You’re covering the mortgage anyway, and then a premium for not having it in your name.