<prompt> Human: Background: Applying for my 3rd job, with 5 years experience in this industry under my belt. I was offered a new position, which I am very enthusiastic about, but unfortunately the salary is only 1k more than what I currently make, and is in a higher cost of living area. With increased cost of living, I would effectively be taking a pay cut. It is a lateral move - so same position in a different organization. I said that I was very excited about the job and keen to contribute X, Y and Z. However I would need 20 more than what they offered. HR came back to me and said that salary is non-negotiable and that they follow an internal salary scale to keep things fair psh. Are there any options for me here? If I could get 10-20 more than what is currently offered, I would absolutely take it. Im happy in my current position so Im not jumping at this unless the salary works out. Should I politely decline, citing salary as the reason, or should I press one more time for a salary increase? Thanks in advance for the advice.  <response>: Given the similar salary and the higher cost of living compared to my current position, this offer is a functional pay cut. Since thats non-negotiable for you, Ill have to take my name out of consideration. Best of luck. 