[jimbokun]

When, and in what city, has that ever been the case?

I haven't been to Seattle, but in major cities space is at a major premium and many dwellings are tiny. This is offset by the amenities living in a prominent city have to offer.

[Forgeties79]

Why does it matter if it’s ever been the case? Is that adequate justification why things shouldn’t be some way?

You're basically saying "it's fine because that's the way it has always been," which I don't think I need to explain is not a particularly compelling argument.