You are totally comparing apples to oranges. Rent is never lower than a mortgage, not in any single place in the US or in the world. For the same unit.
What is the rent for a 1500 sqft apartment compared to the mortgage for a 1500 sqft apartment? The rent is always higher.
What is the rent for a 1500 sqft house compared to the mortgage for a 1500 sqft house? The rent is always higher.
What is the rent for a 1500 sqft apartment compared to the mortgage for a 1500 sqft apartment? The rent is always higher.
What is the rent for a 1500 sqft house compared to the mortgage for a 1500 sqft house? The rent is always higher.