I don't see why? The three times income rule already carries the assumption that you have children. When you get out to the five times income rule you are probably right that children are out of the question, but we're only sitting at 3.4 times income. With the potential to earn more with a little effort, bringing us closer to the ideal three times income.

Not even in the 1940s or 1950s could you buy a house with a week's pay. Housing has always been a substantial cost.