They’re probably just flying by under the radar. Personally, as a corporate finance type, the stereotypes are more applicable to investment banking/private equity (who generally are not remote and work 60 to 100 hours).

On a related note, why would anyone spend $4k a month on lodging when they can spend $800 if they’re only going to sleep in the room.

It’s hard.

Most successful digital nomads I know ($150k+) are US-based and in software or corporate accounting/finance. I’ve seen quite a few marketers, freelancers etc., but they always seem preoccupied with cost whereas the SWE/finance guys will casually drop $100 on a meal and not think twice about it while hostel hopping.