Negotiating pay when I have been out of work after 6 years as a dental hygienist

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as a dental hygienist. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I do not want to price myself out. How do you research fairly?

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

Benefits matter too. A slightly lower rate with better coverage was better for me.