Hey Chris, this can be a very subjective topic for sure. My recommendations are suited more for extended high temp weather, but maybe you can glean something from them.

#1 Buy a 7 day programmable digital thermostat (Honeywell).
The temps can be set at 4 different levels during the day (wake,sleep,leave,return). Best place to buy is eBaY. I have two A/C's (Dual Zone). First one I bought at Home Depot for like $109.00. Next one I bought through eBaY for $52.00. Lesson learned. Here is a pic of their top of the line. It's a "Vision Pro" touch screen. There are many alternatives. PM me for other recommendations.

#2 During the summer, set your thermostat between 78-80 degrees when you are home, and 85 degrees or higher when you are away. For every degree you set your thermostat above 80 degrees, you can save approximately 2-3% on cooling costs.
You can set these new programmable thermostats to have your place already cooled down by the time you return home.
#3 Replace your disposable or clean your permanent air filters at least once a month.

Hope this helps,

Greg