You can search for prevailing wages here:

http://www.flcdatacenter.com/OesWizardStart.aspx

A database engineer in San Francisco is here: http://www.flcdatacenter.com/OesQuickResults.aspx?area=41884...

The levels are (very roughly): 1 = entry-level, 2 = junior, 3 = experienced, 4 = senior, usually with some management.

So they would be required to pay at least $92k; they can pay more if they want. However, it varies by area - the same DBA in LA would earn $3k less.

You're either trolling or (may I politely point out) you risk coming across as one.

That's a whole different conversation, totally OT to the OP. I'd suggest you spin up another thread to debate that, or search the archives on hn.

I'm really curious. Imagine you were at a party, and engrossed in a conversation about food. Honey comes up, so somebody asks a question about bee raising. Would you tell that person,

"You're either trolling this party, or (may I politely point out) you risk coming across as a troll in this party"?

Clearly I missed the part of the social contract which states, "Discussions may never, ever branch".

I'm curious what's wrong with someone suggesting that you might be coming across as trolling.

Might I recommend reading http://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/06...

It's helped me immensely in getting over my geekdom, and learning how to relate to people easier. Your mileage may vary.