During my last two years of school, I lived at home and commuted, I saved some $$$. But man did I wish I had a car!! When the winter came and snow was crazy, I had to haul to get to school on public transportation. It was hell. I couldn't stay late at the library and study like I wanted to because it got dark early and my mom got worried. If have close friends that would let you spend the night at there place every once in a while that would be great too, thats what I did.
I say stay at home and get a car but you need to have a job or some $$$ lined up to help fund the total expenses for your car. You will need it trust me.
Apt is going to cost major bucks.
Best wishes during your last year of school :)