Totally, there are people who have higher-leverage savings strategies than investing in a 401(k), like paying off debt in your case. In the end, the most important number to track is your savings rate (total consumption / total income). If you have a savings rate of at least 25% and can maintain that throughout your working career, don't worry, you'll retire rich. :)
The articles subjects definitely highlight that. But it also highlighted income inequality. If people don't earn enough they have no chance at saving. High rents are not helpful. They should be talking about ways to incentivize lower rents.
