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Find a babysitter in San Mateo, CA

Browse background checked babysitters near you in San Mateo. Compare local reviews, rates, and experience to find the right fit.

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111 available babysitters in San Mateo, CA

Families in San Mateo use UrbanSitter for date nights, after school help, and last-minute babysitting.
92 available tonight | Avg hourly rate: $31.32/hr

All babysitters shown here are background checked every year. Learn more.

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Valerie
Booked by 21 repeat families
27 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 37 families in San Mateo, CA

Hello! I graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Child and Adolescent Development. I have my Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education, which adds to my knowledge of children. I currently work for a public school district where I work with children that have special needs. Prior to that, I was a teacher at a private school. I have worked with a variety of ages, but primarily with 3-4 year olds for 5 years. I have worked as a nanny for two children for 5 years, while also babysitting for many years before this. When babysitting, I primarily have worked with school aged children, K-6th grade. I have had some experience with infant children under the age of 1 for about four years. I hope that I can be of assistance to you and your family. Thank you!

“Valerie was terrific with my girls. Will definitely use her again”

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Mercedes
Booked by 13 repeat families
21 reviews
$40 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 32 families in San Mateo, CA

-Not currently taking jobs unless occasional or one-time care- Hello, I’m Mercedes! It’s a pleasure to connect with you. I was born and raised in Oakland, CA, and I’m Montessori trained for ages 0–6, including Early Childhood Education. I work part-time in a childcare environment, and the rest of my time is spent developing curriculum for children across different counties in California. I’m comfortable working with a wide range of age groups. Part of what makes me effective in my curriculum work is the hands-on experience I gain by spending time with children in both 1:1 and group settings, including preschool. I focus on creating a positive, supportive environment through meaningful activities — arts and crafts, outdoor play, books, and creative projects. I pride myself on being reliable and fully present with every child I care for, approaching each task with enthusiasm and dedication. I’m also fully CPR/First Aid certified and prioritize health and safety in every aspect of my work. Thank you for taking the time to learn a bit about me — I look forward to the possibility of working with your family! Feel free to reach out with any questions. Have a wonderful day! -Just so you know, I bill for the full booking time in the app, even if we wrap up early-

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Leidy
Booked by 10 repeat families
20 reviews
$38 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 25 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi! I’m Carolina, originally from Colombia, and I have 10 years of experience caring for children. I truly love what I do and feel honored to support families during such an important time. I’m a certified Newborn Care Specialist (NCS), CPR certified, trained in Infant Safety, and also a Birth Doula. I’m warm, reliable, and passionate about providing nurturing, professional care. I speak both Spanish and English, and I’m always happy to support bilingual learning.

“She was amazing! So patient and kind and skilled with our 6 month old daughter! Couldn’t recommend her highly enough!!!”

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Vanessa
Booked by 47 repeat families
42 reviews
$33 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 78 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi, my name is Vanessa. I am a full-time middle school teacher and I have baby-sat and nannied part-time over the last 20+years. I am CPR certified and registered with Trustline. I have worked in child care centers and preschools while employed with Child Care Careers. I was repeatedly asked to substitute at PalCare in Burlingame because I know how to care for and work with infants and toddlers. For a few months, I taught a Spanish class to Pre-K students for the Casita de Los Ninos program located at Village Park Preschool, Burlingame. From 2012 to 2013 I tutored 3rd and 4th grade students in reading with the program Reading Partners at Park Elementary School in San Mateo. In 2010 I received my B.A. in Liberal Studies and Spanish at Sonoma State University. I love working with children so much that I pursued my teaching credential at San Francisco State University and am currently teaching at Burlingame Intermediate School. I feel that children need to be engaged with art, language, math, science, and play! I'm a big fan of imaginative play, story time, drawing, play dough, and board games. If you're looking for a sitter who will do a lot more than put on a movie for your children, you've come to the right profile! :)

“Vanessa came on time. We did a short video call to introduce her to my kids before the date. She was very nice and patient to kids and very well comunnicated with us about details when we were away from home. Would recommend her if you ever need a babysitter.”

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Veronica
Booked by 8 repeat families
14 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 20 families in San Mateo, CA

I am a mother of 8 children and three beautiful grandchildren. I have been taking care of kids since i was a teenager, with over 30+ years of experience. I have a deep love for children especially babies. As many of my own babies are now grown and moving out the nest, im looking for extra hours to work and do what i love most, watch and help children grow. I am very experienced, punctual, respectful, dependable and organized. I treat my families and children as if they were my very own. I enjoy spending time outside at the park or going on bike rides. I also love playing with kids favorite toys, reading to them, building, coloring and simply just laughing! I like keeping screen time to a minimum or not screen at all. and making sure the children are entertained with fun activities. I usually have a flexible schedule, more often available in the daytime, early mornings and afternoons until early evening. I am available occasionally for date nights. I am fluent in Spanish and proficient in English. I can cook and do light housecleaning. I have a clean driving record and background. Thank you so much for reading and i look forward to meeting you! Have a wonderful day.

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How much does a babysitter cost in San Mateo, CA?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $31.32
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $37.19
  • Typical job length: 4.9 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in San Mateo, CA

Trust and safety come first

Every babysitter's profile is individually reviewed by UrbanSitter's Trust & Safety team after clearing an annual background check. Rely on reviews from local families to help you find your best fit.

2,361 sitters background checked in San Mateo, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 28,023 reviews in San Mateo, CA

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"Recommendations from friends are a must when it comes to a sitter for my kids. UrbanSitter has expanded our network of babysitters, and it has given us peace of mind."

Matt K., dad of two

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"UrbanSitter has supported my needs for reliable and joyful sitters. Whether it be for work, recreation or last-minute emergencies, we've made wonderful relationships with local sitters who have become a part of our family!"

Natalie O., mom of five

photo of quoted parent Laura

"UrbanSitter is my go-to for quality sitters! I can book weeks ahead of time or easily find a same-day sitter when in a bind. I even hired a part-time nanny during a daycare transition. Customer service is helpful and babysitters respond in a timely manner."

Laura F., mom of two

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Frequently asked questions about San Mateo babysitters

How much do babysitters cost in San Mateo, CA?

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in San Mateo, CA is $31.32 per hour for 1 child, and $37.19 per hour for two children. Costs may vary depending on job responsibilities, children's ages, and the babysitter's experience. Try using a babysitting rates calculator as a helpful tool.

How do I find a babysitter near me?

Sign up for a free UrbanSitter account, post a job with your dates and needs, and review babysitter profiles, including distance, before choosing the right fit. Learn more about how UrbanSitter works.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every San Mateo babysitter on UrbanSitter is background checked annually, and each profile is individually reviewed by a trained specialist on our Trust & Safety team. Learn more about what's included in a background check.

What's the best way to find a last-minute babysitter in San Mateo?

Sign up for a free UrbanSitter account, then request a babysitter by posting a job with your needs. In most cities, sitters will reply within minutes, so you can review choices quickly, then book them immediately.

Can I find babysitters for after school care in San Mateo?

Yes. Families often use UrbanSitter for after school care, including pickup, homework help, tutoring, and early evening coverage. You can filter for babysitters who are willing to drive or have their own car.

Can I find babysitters for evenings, weekends, or extended hours in San Mateo?

Yes. Families in San Mateo use UrbanSitter for date nights, weekend plans, extended hours, and other scheduling needs. You can review each sitter's availability and experience to find someone who fits your hours.

Resources

The Ultimate Babysitter Guide for Parents

A step-by-step guide to hiring the right babysitter.

Tips for Finding Last-Minute Child Care

How to find a babysitter fast when plans change.

Top 20 Questions to Ask a Babysitter in an Interview

Essential questions to help you find a great fit.

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