so are 90% of other high-tech skilled jobs

And pretty much everyone on (or off in this case!) the planet.

A lot of HN readers seem really, seriously out of touch on the income front.

It surprises me very much. I understand that many in tech may not have close friends from outside tech, but family? Do so many people are second-generation technologists, so they don't end up in those uncomfortable situations where they avoid the topic of salaries near their siblings, parents, or SO?

It's interesting to see a little from the other side too. I'm in tech, but not "SV pay" scale. Meanwhile many of my friends are in tech at the more SV-like pay scales. It's sometimes surreal the things they talk about and afford. I usually just smile and nod and many of the not-close friends aren't even aware (I presume) that there's a difference.

And depending on rank and length of service, the military candidates may be paid less than the civilians (or more).