Salary expectations: how do you answer? after 16 years as a security officer

I have been out of work for 11 weeks and feel pressure to accept less. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I also do not want to sell myself short. Does giving a range hurt?

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

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