Wouldn't acceptable rates depend on geographic location? Or do we assume everyone here is in SF?
No, why would they? Does an iphone cost less in the Congo (assuming you would buy it legally)?
If you freelance, your rates don't matter if you are selling your labor in Memphis or Manhattan or LA?
I didn't know that.
Well, I'm sure the employer will try to tell you they do but part of being a consultant is selling. :) I don't pay $800 for an iphone because it costs $700 to make (probably more like $50-$200), I pay it because that's the price the market decided it was worth.