Why does that not mean renting wins?

A lower monthly payment on paper does not automatically mean renting wins financially, since a mortgage payment builds equity you keep while rent is a cost with no return, and that difference compounds significantly over several years of ownership. Renting can still be the right personal choice for other reasons, like flexibility or avoiding maintenance responsibility, even when the pure financial comparison favors buying. Which one actually fits depends on how long you plan to stay and your own priorities beyond the monthly number. Joel Boss can walk through both sides honestly for your specific situation.