Negotiating pay when I have been out of work - what worked for you?

I have been out of work for 8 weeks and feel pressure to accept less. I also do not want to sell myself short. What did you say?

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

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