Personal Finance: Owning a home is good for you—and society
U.S. News & World Report

Owning a home is the classic American dream, and the economic benefits
of homeownership are immense.  Instead of paying rent to the man, you
are buying something of your own that, like fine wine, may appreciate in
value over the years.  But there's more to owning a home than just your
personal profit.

...there is some evidence that homeowners report higher self-esteem and
happiness than renters and even better physical health.  "Homeowners
tend to stay put longer, so they create more friendships and associations
in the local neighborhood," says William Rohe, professor of city and
regional planning at the University of North Carolina.  "People have more
extensive social support systems, and that has a potential positive impact
on health."


http://www.usnews.com/usnews/biztech/articles/060224/24homeowners_realestate.htm