It's not the hourly rate, it's the total cost and quality delivered. Try bidding on fixed priced projects - while you'll still likely to submit higher bids, the difference is not as big as the hourly rate - since an experienced programmer can do more in less time.
Represent yourself with class and show a portfolio of quality work. Not everyone goes for the lowest bidder, and you definitely want the clients that are looking for quality. Do you really want to work for someone who expects you to work for 12$ / hour?
Represent yourself with class and show a portfolio of quality work. Not everyone goes for the lowest bidder, and you definitely want the clients that are looking for quality. Do you really want to work for someone who expects you to work for 12$ / hour?