The fact is that I think that we're wired to think that things are getting worse as we look around us, and I have no idea what exactly it is that it serves. It's true though. This is just an extension of the same impulse that has caused old men to grumble about "Kids these days" at least since Plato started grumbling about it.
The fact is, things are getting better, especially for people in the West. We're living longer, healthier and safer lives. There's more free time to do with what one wishes and vastly greater access to education, which is no doubt a large part of why people are also smarter and more educated than ever before. Crime rates have been going down steadily throughout the US and most Western countries for decades. Life is generally better, safer and happier for everyone than ever before.
I know that it sucks when you're stuck in a slog, but it seems to me that it might be because you're putting too much value on something that you don't actually want. Commuting is absolute hell and will crush anyone's spirit, without a doubt, and you definitely need to cut that shit out no matter how you do it, either moving there or finding something closer. Money's great, but shit man, you don't have to give up your soul completely to have a decent shot at happiness. Figure out what you'd rather be doing and do it. Whatever you feel beholden to, I'd wager it's something you can stop being beholden to.