$40K is low for entry level programming jobs in the tri-state area (NY/NJ/CT). If you have 2+ years of experience, you should definitely ask for more but I of course don't know your current situation.
If you are having trouble getting hired, look at your experience so far and focus on being a "specialist" of some sort. For example, don't apply to any random programming job. Pick a couple of areas which could either include specific languages/frameworks (node etc) OR a domain (finance, retail etc). You need to be good at one of those areas.
If you are having trouble getting hired, look at your experience so far and focus on being a "specialist" of some sort. For example, don't apply to any random programming job. Pick a couple of areas which could either include specific languages/frameworks (node etc) OR a domain (finance, retail etc). You need to be good at one of those areas.