<prompt> Human: I am currently unhappy with my current job and looking for new employment. I recently received a 3kyear salary increase putting me at 51k. I had a job interview today and was offered a position at 48k. They said that was 3k more than they wanted to pay, but I told them that was the least I could accept during the interview. I have reached the highest position possible at my current job, and any more raises are unlikely for the foreseeable future.Where I live, IT positions are scarce. The new job would be a great opportunity for my career moving forward, but 48k makes our finances a lot tighter.Is it better for me to potentially grow my career moving forward with this new job, or stay where I am at for an indefinite amount of time, until I can find a better opportunity with an equal or better pay.Is it likely the new employer is low balling me and would accept a counter offer? Is it common for a potential employer to ask for a wage increase within a timeframe after being hired?Any advice would be greatly appreciated.  <response>: Tell them that you love the opportunity, but it is less than what you are currently making. Ask if there is anything they can do to make it easy for you to accept. Be matter of fact, friendly, and unapologetic. See what they come back with. You can be specific about your current pay, or offer to show a tax or payroll form if it seems appropriate. As a hiring manager, Id want people to be psyched to take the job, rather than starting under a cloud of reduced finances. 