Formerly based on need, now all students and families are eligible to apply. Many major banks and credit unions offer private loans. Many students apply for the Federal Stafford loans first, then look to private loans to finance the balance of their expenses. The biggest cost differential will be tuition. In general your home state university will be the least expensive and a private college will be the most expensive.
Transportation is the other major cost.
Many colleges discourage cars. If you're going far away, you'll need to consider airfare. Just a couple of trips home can cost as much as room and board for a month.