I don't know of any databases or online suggestions to your answer, but they are probably out there with varying degrees of accuracy (GlassDoor?). I also don't

I don't know of any databases or online suggestions to your answer, but they are probably out there with varying degrees of accuracy (GlassDoor?). I also don't life in SF, but from HN comments I think the only guideline to salaries is 1) expensive as hell :) I might suggest using your network to get these answers -- are there other companies that are similar to yours, already located in SF? As a founder, I think you would be building your network anyway, and this is a great question to ask founders of other companies. Like you said, ballpark is key -- so you're not off by a lot that might sink your company from the start.