Too many of the answers here are theoretical. I'd like to propose a "Mark-to-Market" approach. 1. Apply/Interview and get a formal job offer on paper. If you

Too many of the answers here are theoretical. I'd like to propose a "Mark-to-Market" approach. 1. Apply/Interview and get a formal job offer on paper. If you cant get a job, your market value is a lot lower than you think. A. Apply only to jobs where you would work, not some wretched job you wouldn't take, that isn't a real market rate FOR YOU. B. Apply only to cities where you would live, not some theoretical "SF/SV" salary if you aren't willing to move/live there. Ideally get three offers and average them. Your market rate baseline is that. Negotiation will get more. 2. Hopefully the above exercise finds you a job you WANT, not just a "Mark-to-Market" exercise. Take the job, be happy and go somewhere where you are paid well for good work.