One way or another, I think most of us have lifestyles subsidized by society.
OP could also have bought stocks in 2015, and perhaps done even better than buying a house. Since the beginning of that year, the S&P500 has more than tripled, while housing has gone up about 50% (though of course leverage helps). For all we know, OP does hold stocks, which wouldn't cramp his lifestyle at all.
Plus he claims to spend less with this lifestyle, which also helps.
And diversification is better with an index fund. Both routes have their benefits and drawbacks. I wouldn't say you're paying an "opportunity cost" either way.
OP could also have bought stocks in 2015, and perhaps done even better than buying a house. Since the beginning of that year, the S&P500 has more than tripled, while housing has gone up about 50% (though of course leverage helps). For all we know, OP does hold stocks, which wouldn't cramp his lifestyle at all.
Plus he claims to spend less with this lifestyle, which also helps.
https://www.in2013dollars.com/Housing/price-inflation