To be fair, $150k is still a very good salary. That's like 3 times as much as most other people make. So it seems to me like we're still talking about fairly high-tier jobs, where I live most developers make less than $100k. The only devs I know who make north of $150k are self-employed contractors which comes with a lot of downsides.

I can see how it might be frustrating to have to maintain a separate set of skills just for interviews. I just haven't experienced that myself.

High col area, was paying 3 grand per month before utilities for 1000 sq ft and rats. Surroundings are fun at least. 150k is well off still but not secure from financial problems after being out of work for even a few weeks.

Like I said, the moneys worth going through the hoops but it’s aggravating to go through them when I don’t think they are benefiting anyone, even the employer.

I also felt this way when I was on the other side of the table doing hiring mind you.