Salary expectations: how do you answer? - what worked for you?

I have been out of work for 23 weeks and feel pressure to accept less. This is my first time dealing with any of this. I also do not want to sell myself short. How do you research fairly?

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.