Negotiating pay when I have been out of work (update)

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as a medical assistant. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I do not want to price myself out. Does giving a range hurt?

Check several sources for pay in Sacramento, 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.