When negotiating a contract, you should not negotiate salary only, you should also negotiate as many benefits as possible.
Benefits are a form of compensation, they can sometimes be easier to negotiate and they are tax-free!
Here are some fringe benefits you can negotiate :
☆ Additional vacation time
☆ Meals
☆ Travel card or parking
☆ Professional development opportunities
☆ Health insurance
☆ Retirement plan
☆ A performance bonus
☆ Annual salary raise etc…