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 sales associate. I do not usually post, so bear with me. I looked up ranges in Boston and they vary a lot. Does giving a range hurt?

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

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