I've been working remotely for the last 3 years, working 100% on interesting, Paris-based projects. Just adding a data point!

You are one of the lucky few then, I'd be interested to hear what those Paris-based projects are as well. Are they paying you more than 40k too ?

I'm working as a freelance, my current going rate is 120€/hour (ex VAT); those projects belong to mid-size companies and startups, companies not much seen on TechCrunch or HackerNews.

Yeah right me too. I live in Paris since 2005. I've learnt to dislike the city. And when I read all what happens in the silicon Valley, it feels more and more the wrong place...

Taking my courage with both hands, leaving for SF/NY this summer hoping to find a job.