A man goes to a $10 prostitute and realizes afterward he caught crabs.
 When he goes back to complain, the hooker laughs and says, "What do you expect for $10 -- lobster?

I'm opening myself up to criticisms, but here goes.
I've been in this biz for a while and have stayed on the high dollar end of the spectrum.
Not pre-recession porn star pricing, but certainly in a top tier.  My clients are successful guys with disposable income and a need to find release and rejuvenation to keep their busy, stress-filled lives balanced.  As I've moved into the sensual domination aspect my clientele has gotten even wealthier, with more of a need
Whenever I've tried to offer specials, or advertise on Backpage, I always end up dealing with guys who are trying to stretch their budgets and the booking process becomes much more difficult because here is not the level of professionalism, respect and communication I am accustomed  to, and demand.  So it's more than $$ which separates the tiers of clientele- there is etiquette, manners, dependability and grace.  I AM generalizing, but this is my experience.
Cla

Your body your rate. You are entitled to ask as much as you like and kinks like bondage etc. are historically higher rate. I am a hobbiest that generally has limited  "at times ", disposable income and although I've  splurged on the occasional provider that's out of my typical range I usually stay at a peak of $300-350 and really see no huge difference in service or looks or enjoyment from $250 to $350 I would not venture below that rate as it's spooks me to even consider that type of provider but as far as competence or professionalism I have had disappointment at all levels and great experiences at both levels.
It's whatever the market will bear but I assure you some of us that maybe are less affluent then you are used to are probably guys that you would really enjoy and we are less demanding and probably more appreciative than your more wealthy clientele...you may never find out I'm not criticizing you or your rate or your post I'm just offering you the view from where we sit.  

I will add that I have a problem saving up enough for a top tier provider as I usually come across a bargain that I can't refuse. Why pay a lady 500 for one hour when I can screw 5 in a month for the same coin (or less). Not that I am a cheap prick it's my dick doing the thinking and he wants it NOW. I have a few utr friends that will do me for under a C-note and some of them are as good or better than some of the $300 to $500 range ladies. They are my long term regulars.
 If they are over $500 I don't even read their reviews.  I have only repeated with a few upper tier providers at a slight discount because they were exceptional. I am unlikely to repeat once I have taken them for a test drive as I do like variety.

I tend to agree with Clair's comments.   I have gradually moved toward higher end providers ($500/hr +) with the majority of my dates.  I have asked them how they decided on their rate structure and they frequently mention some of the same points that Clair noted.   My personal preference is longer dates (typically dinner dates) where you have a chance to get to know each other a bit.  For me this seems to work better with the higher end providers.    And over a series of longer terms dates with a provider if things click you can develop a friendship or connection which is cool and that to me makes the sex even better, than the 15 min/30 min/60 min sessions.  The opportunity to get in touch with someone's mind as well as their body.   I know this is a minority viewpoint but just my personal preference/experience.    As I saw how one provider put it in her advertising....'I'm not looking for hit and run encounters, but long term friendships.  I've seen that a few other providers have noted the same idea in different words...that they prefer longer term dates to develop that connection/friendship.

I've seen my share of lovely ladies, great lays and a few, and just a few, duds. But whenever you find a partner "with whom you can dance in step, they're magic moments and much, much more than "just sex". I've been seeing my ATF for almost 10 years and have no desire to stop seeing her. If I could afford it, ANY fee would be inconsequential.  And the sex just keeps getting better and better and better... just got a text beep, hope that's her now ...

I'm not one to stereotype, but I have to agree with Clair. Everything she has stated is accurate. Guys on back page don't know the rules. Yes, there are some nice guys, but I very seldom don't have a problem with these guys, whether it's explicit talk, asking for personal pictures or compensation. I try my best to maintain a reasonable rate for my QUALITY services, but I've had a few people try to leave without the proper amount of money. I don't know  about other lady's but counting the money can be uncomfortable for myself and I'm sure the gentlemen who are receiving  my services. The stereotype goes for the providers as we'll some clients may not want a girl who advertises low rates because again the stereotype you never know what you're getting yourself into.

....Well said...