They asked my salary range, what should I say?, machine operator here

A recruiter asked for my salary expectations on a first call as I look for work as a machine operator. I looked up ranges in Cleveland and they vary a lot. 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.