Negotiating pay when I have been out of work - any advice?

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as an accountant. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I also do not want to sell myself short.

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

Asking about the range for the role first worked for me. Some recruiters share it.