Negotiating pay when I have been out of work, accountant here

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as an accountant. I do not want to price myself out. What did you say?

I gave a range based on local postings and said I was flexible depending on the whole package. They did not push back.

Check several sources for pay in Austin, then pick a range where the low end is one you can live with.