Rent vs. Buy at similar monthly price ranges

[Tanner Shore]

Hi everyone,

I am having an internal debate. I am 23, and I plan on getting my own place soon. I live in southern California, so renting an apartment isn't the cheapest. I have found a few apartments for anywhere from $1700-$2000 per month. At these prices, I am thinking if it might just be better to buy a home for $350-$400k and have a monthly payment around $2200. This way, I will see the benefit of appreciation and start building equity and not waste money on renting an apartment that I'll only live in for a few years. 

All at the same time, I want to buy rentals OOS so I am not sure what route to take. I would love to house hack, but I would only want to with a duplex (because my Fiancee wouldn't want to share a unit with strangers) but duplexes aren't that available where I am. Any advice would be appreciated!