I think it also completely depends on your own personality and even the age at which you go to college. Nowadays, with college costs being so high and getting higher, a lot of people choose to wait and make a little money before starting college. If I had done that, I probably would not have enjoyed living in the dorms as much since everyone around me would have been so much younger. Also, if you're used to living on your own - cooking, cleaning, etc. - then you might enjoy an apartment more than a dorm.

Staying in a dorm for the first year or possibly all your years depending on your circumstances. Some people find that it is safer to be on campus while others feel safer off campus. You individual needs will have to be looked at.