A couple of things to remember when discussing this:

#1 Can't compare mortgages to rent payments. Just not apples to apples.

#2 Shouldn't compare on raw monthly payments alone, because some of these apt complexes offer some great ammenities and others are just basic. So, if you pay $1000/mo for rent on a 2 bedroom, but have security parking, a spa, weight room, 2 pools, sauna, tennis courts, parties, 2 miles from work, etc. then it may be worth it IF renting is the thing for you.

Paul does make a good point when he said that if you are paying $900+ for rent, you should look into buying. Some people don't want to deal with it, and that's cool. It's just that sometimes people THINK they can't buy when they really can.