They asked my salary range, what should I say? - 16 weeks in

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as an accountant. It has been a long 16 weeks. I also do not want to sell myself short. How do you research fairly?

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

Asking about the range for the role first worked for me. Some recruiters share it.