I make over 100k in base salary (I also have bonuses) as a management consultant in a niche field for a boutique consulting firm. As other said, I have to be more qualified, efficient and hard working than others, unfortunately. However, I believe the main value I add to my firm's shareholders and our customers, and why I'm well compensated, is that I speak the truth. There are so many yes men and people who just say nothing that they're ready to pay a premium to hear the truth, even if it's a struggle to say/understand it.