It is not an easy solution, but: consider freelance/contracting. Software development is well paid; if you're willing to take a cut in your standard of living, it's feasible to work for 6 months out of the year & earn enough to live. (You probably won't divide your year into two blocks like this, but distribute it across the year.)

There are many drawbacks to this, of course, but it's easier to do this when you're freelancing than when you're working full time.