IMO greedy landlords contribute significantly to the ills of society but receive disproportionately little blame for it. Inflation, overwork, child neglect, depression, drug abuse, etc., all of these problems are exacerbated by greedy landlords charging unreasonable rent for a finite good that they are either in a privileged position to exploit and/or activity lobby and restrict the production of in order to preserve their unjustly-inflated asset values.
Any tips on how to avoid paying rent?
The only advice I have is for young people: live with your parents as long as possible and save up for a down-payment on a home. Sadly, this isn't possible for everyone but for those who have stable, loving families, make the most of this gift.