Ask HN: Why the lack of remote work?

With the Bay & other areas exploding with software developer jobs at increasingly large salaries, why do more companies not look to in sourcing positions to lower cost areas or to use remote workers?

I'm an experienced developer but am location constrained to the Texas panhandle (shared custody of my daughter) for the next 11 years. Not much of an IT industry here and no growth options.

I'm finding it hard to find positions that allow remote only or occasional travel onsite. I'm open to freelancing also but not much luck.

I'd love to relocate but that is not an option now, and quality of life here is really good.

Another option is to try build a tech presence locally, but that is an uphill battle.