[jjeaff]

>they should be paid far more than software developers.

They most likely are being paid more, when adjusting for cost of living. You can work on a rig making $100k a year in areas where $250k buys you a very nice 3500 SQ ft home with a big backyard.

Something that would cost millions in SF, NYC, Seattle, etc.

[davrosthedalek]

True in general, but the cost of buying a house is a bad example. Most of that is the cost of the ground, and that doesn't depreciate. So when the developer walks away from the job and moves, they can settle down with millions. I is ttrue though for rent, food etc.

[jjeaff]

>they can settle down with millions

Yes, assuming an ever upward trend that never crashes. Which everyone should know by now will not likely be the case.