Have you ever heard of the saying "I don't mean to put you on the spot..."? Please remove my ID from your titles, so that others are more likely to comment, which is what you want.
He may have sensed that you really need this job, and he is taking advantage of the situation.
Ask yourself: Do I really need this job? Be responsible for yourself, numbers and what others might think become less important.
It is always better to look for a job while still having one.
Be aware of this if you take this job: The gap in salary tells that he is willing to take advantage at the expense of your livelihood. Is he a decent person, or a nasty one, or just a shrewd businessman? You are a better judge at that than any of us here can be.
