CB is 11 meters (measured wavelength, from peak to trough), it's near the ham radio 10 meter band. Ham radio is much better, and it's not that hard. My significant other is not a techie, and she just passed her Technician license test. I was also sending packet data around the world before Amsat satellites with a TI-99/4A computer on a Kenwood TS-520, with just wires strung in trees for an antenna. Seriously, check it out. There are very probably free classes in your area.
EDIT. bad link.
Look for it here: https://www.hamradiolicenseexam.com/which-exam.htm