Other than living with your parents, what is another smart way to keep living expenses down while in college?

When you live on campus, you don't have to worry about commuting, but there are other expenses, such as room and board and meal plans. The latter can be pretty pricey: the average three-meal-a-day-plan, which covers the academic year, costs about $4,500, or $18.75 per day, according to a recent story in the Hechinger Report, a publication that covers inequality and innovation in education. 
However, in addition to dorms, some universities offer apartment-style living that lets you live close to campus amenities while still being able to make some of your own food. Consider that even when you live in dorms, it's also possible to purchase smaller meal plans, creating a hybrid situation where some of our food comes from school and some you prepare or obtain elsewhere. whether you live in a dorm or on-campus apartment, the flexibility to prepare meals at home will help offset some of your costs.
Campus living can also be an advantage if you have an on-campus job or a work-study position. Having everything close can help you better manage your schedule and save time and money on a commute.