[e1g]

I run a US-based startup with a relatively small budget and hire developers in "low-cost" countries. I expect to pay $70k-$100k for a regular competent developer and more for a solid self-motivated developer. If the company is legitimate, they can afford $90k++. Try to speak directly with whoever would be your manager - if you can demonstrate to them that you're a) good b) excited to work on their problems, and c) require zero babysitting (as a senior person), they'll override whatever silly numbers HR put on the form.

$45k is beyond silly; it's disrespectful for senior talent, regardless of where they live. If the manager holds the same line as HR, consider yourself lucky as that company is not where you'd want to work.