One can learn for free, the syllabus for various National exams are available for free, and then exam fees are low ( USD 15 for each of the US levels which are easier than in other countries).

The hand held radios themselves start at USD 35 for the Baofeng units ( though these are considered electrically noisy).

You can also install the EchoLink software on your smartphone and connect to the global Radio-Internet bridge network. No Amateur radio needed!