In urban tech centers, wages increased sharply over the last 10 years. Both due to base wage increase and tech stock appreciation. Once you are within a compan

In urban tech centers, wages increased sharply over the last 10 years. Both due to base wage increase and tech stock appreciation. Once you are within a company you will be given catch-up raises but in a fast moving market you will always be able to create a bidding war for your talent and increase your pay beyond what the employer will offer you. You have 3 options. 1. Climb the ranks. Technical or managerial. This takes time and is rewarded generously at most tech companies. 2. Get lucky with insane stock appreciation. Stay four years. Leave when your income drops in year 5. 3. Leave every couple years for significantly more money, by combination of up-leveling and getting the now higher market rate. Number 3 is the easiest path.