an average Indian programmer gets significantly more. the average salary for someone just out of school is about 1200 $ /month (in Bangalore, as of today). Companies like Google pay much more.

Yes, but I think he's asking about lower-bounds on money needed to survive while starting a startup. When you're starting a startup, you can't afford an opulent lifestyle. In the US, a programmer would make a lot more than $6000 per 3 months, but YC only gives you about $6k to $7.5k per person, and this money is expected to sustain you past the 3 month YC program until you get external funding. A programmer in the US probably earns between $70k and $90k per year. (Although it can be considerably higher in places like Silicon Valley)

very good point! I missed that totally! I should know better than to type when sleepy!

"We'll give you $600; you give us 6% of your company"?