Negotiating pay when I have been out of work - first time posting

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as a payroll clerk. I do not want to price myself out. Does giving a range hurt?

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

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