Economic future?

I know many many people are in the same boat, but I just don't understand how anyone is supposed to survive in this economy. I graduated HS in 2020 at the start of COVID, and have since seen every price skyrocket. The average house price near me is $250,000+ while I only make $34,000 after taxes.The cheapest used car that isn't a junker is $7,000-10,000. Are we just expected to work forever while not being able to afford anything?

Edit: additional note The house my parents bought for $80,000 would now require a $60,000 down payment just to hit 20%