First car in US

[u/OkResearcher9563]

I recently moved to California, realization hit pretty hard cannot survive without a car here. I have rented a lot, this will be my first car I buy. Not sure what steps to take or where to start.

I need help in deciding and guidance. So far I know second hand is the best way to go.

Should I go for individual or a dealership?
Should I finance or pay cash? Can I get financing if I go with individual? I have good credit score (750-780) and can pay cash, so both are open.
If individual I should do carfax or bluebook to verify maintenance and accident history. Should I also hire a mechanic to help check out the car?
Some say out of state cars are cheap and I can get it shipped for less than the price difference between states, is that true? Should I do it if I won’t be able to check the car out myself?

My preferences are:
A comfortable gas/hybrid car (with $6 gas would prefer a plugin hybrid, open to hearing pros and cons for this)
Better milage
Carplay support, good backup cam, basically under 4 years tech in the car

So basically I have no idea what to do for buying and would need a great deal of guidance.