Well, I don't know when the gays go baby crazy, but for chicks, its in the early 30s if there are no kiddos yet (from my experience at least).

On a more serious note, it has to depend on your value system. Each person has different things that will make them happy. If being alone and poor in New York City while persuing your dream makes you happy, I hope you succeed. Your road is definitely much riskier than what I've chosen, but I like the safety of what I've done. And currently I get to see parts of the world I wouldn't have been able to otherwise, which rocks!

Also, I think your views on marriage and children are noble, because I don't really much like the institution of marriage, and the planet is overpopulated as it is (The Forever War, anyone??). However, I'll get married because the money and security (ie legal protection) are worth it, although love/relationship ideals are more important to me. I'll also have children, but a maximum of 2 (only replacing, not exacerbating), because I think raising a family will be fulfilling. Your views may or may not change, it depends on the experiences you have, but I know that you'll end up happy because you always seem to love changing when necessary. I think our views are dependent on our experience, so I guess that's my response to that question.

As for "missing out", life is life. I fight the materialistic view all the time (this is the only way things could happen), but I instead try to enjoy the moment. Sometimes it sucks, but it could always be worse. And you can always change to make sure you enjoy life. So "missing out" is a moot point, I guess. You could always do the other thing, if it will make you happier to do so.