For the longest time I said that I really wanted to go to a college that was far away from home. However, when it came down to it I chose a college that is around 20 min away from home. I contemplated staying at home and saving money but decided against it, at least for the first year. I'm technically not even in a dorm, it's an on campus apartment. Regarding making friends, I found that i made quite a few new "acquaintances" through classes but more friends through extracurricular such as student radio and running club. Although I did make some friends through class those people were mostly just going to class and doing nothing else.
One of my best friends, who is a senior is high school, is having some of the same dilemmas and I told him to do what feels right. I recommended that he tried something out of his comfort zone if he was up for it, like living in a dorm with some random roommate. Because, at most universities, you can book only 1 semester of room at a time. Then I told him if he didnt like the first semester then he could change after that and the next year we could get a place together.
My advice to you, as cheesy as it is, is to follow what your heart says. And not to push anything. The right thing will come along.