[Iftheshoefits]

It is much more likely the startup will fail than an established company. Consequently startup employees are taking a greater risk than established company employees. This, however, isn't really reflected in salary and is instead reflected in the lottery ticket/equity grant.

And just to add: my view is that at a startup, "market rate" is too low, even with equity on the table (to a certain extent--if it gets to double-digit equity my opinion is the negotiation isn't about bringing on an employee so much as a legitimate co-founder) especially given the broad responsibilities early employees are tasked with and the high likelihood of failure.

[bksenior]

That is a bit shortsighted way to look at value added for being part of a startup. Experience and an elevated role can increase earning power regardless of the start-up outcome.

[Iftheshoefits]

I think you're either overestimating the value of experience and title gained at a startup, or undervaluing the same at established companies, or possibly both.

Having a role at a startup doesn't automatically imply useful experience has been gained, or that the specific position and duties are somehow more solid than equivalent roles at established companies.

[jameshart]

You're assuming this evaluation is from the point of view of someone early in a programming career. If you've already got a bunch of experience, and had elevated roles, the cost benefit analysis is going to be different.