Salary expectations: how do you answer? (update)

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as a medical assistant. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. I also do not want to sell myself short. Does giving a range hurt?

Check several sources for pay in Milwaukee, 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.