Finances trump everything. Caliber of academics counts so the idea of a community college versus a higher tier matters for those in the top tier in HS (AP classes).
You do not need to go far to become independent. I do recommend trying to live in the dorms instead of commuting as this offers an excellent outside of classes experience. My experience was having scholarship money and going a whopping 8 miles from home. Totally different world. California has some excellent schools so you can get top academics. It is hard to believe you can find better schools OOS.
If it is not too late be sure to pick several CA schools and live away from home- even if in the same county.