[abossy]

If you're the best programmer you know, then you're probably not in a competitive enough market to drive prices up for programmers.

In a place like Silicon Valley, it's impossible to not meet somebody that's better than you.

Either that, or I'm seriously underestimating your programming ability!

[solarmist]

Lol, I'm probably just a decent sized fish in a small pond, but I do keep growing, so I've been looking to find myself a bigger pond.

[eyeareque]

I made the move to Silicon Valley about four years ago. It was one of the best choices I've made in my life. I wish I would have made the move a long time ago.

If you only make around 60k now, don't expect to get a 100% raise once you move over to a tech hub, unless you are an amazing negotiator. Shoot for 85-90 (plus some stocks). Don't waste time at a company that doesn't have a lot of growth potential. Work harder and output more than the rest of your team does. Stay visible, make sure they know the value of your contributions. A few 10% raises/promotions later and you could be up to 120k+ in no time.