Negotiating your salary

Have you tried checking the Core77 Salary survey?

NYC, looks like average around $60K, but I would think that would be with more experience.

I’m not sure what kind of cost of living calculator you are using, but maybe you also have too high a living expectations. Also, cost of living for NYC, Manhattan proper will be different than if you live in Brooklyn or NJ which many people who are junior and starting in NYC do.

R