The H1B can be and does get renewed by 100s of thousands of people. AC21 provision allows for an H1B to be renewed in perpetuity (even beyond 6 years) until an approved green card petition is pending. The approved green card petition can stay pending for a really long time due to country based immigration queues which disadvantage people from large population countries.
H1-B is a dual intent work visa an you're not required to emigrate. You shave the option to extend your work permit for 6 years or pursue permanent residency.