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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.
98 available tonight | Avg hourly rate: $31.24/hr

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

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Paveerat
Booked by 81 repeat families
89 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 170 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi there! 👋 I’m Pearl and if you’re looking for someone who genuinely loves being around kids, you’ve found her. I’ve spent over 20 years working with children in nearly every setting imaginable: summer camps, preschools, two years living with a family as an au pair, and ongoing nanny work. What started as a passion became a calling. Every single stage shaped how I show up for the children in my care, present, patient, and genuinely enthusiastic. What families tell me sets me apart: • I come prepared. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a meltdown before naptime, I’m calm, creative, and never at a loss. • I use positive discipline, no yelling, no fear, just connection and clear boundaries. • I treat your home like my own and your routines like law. Your rules are my rules, full stop. • Kids tend to open up to me fast. I think it’s because I take them seriously. I’m currently available for occasional bookings, perfect if you need reliable backup coverage, a regular date night sitter, or someone to step in when life gets busy. I’d love to connect and learn more about your family. Send me a message, I always respond quickly! Pearl

“She kept Jack extremely busy with great games and crafts - was great with my crazy dog too!”

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Cagla
Booked by 24 repeat families
39 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 71 families in San Mateo, CA

Hello, my name is Cagla. I hold a master’s degree and have been working with children and families since 2013. My experience includes working as an au pair in the U.S. as well as supporting families through after-school educational programs and family-focused care services. I understand the different needs of children at various developmental stages and adapt my approach accordingly, and I consistently receive positive feedback from families for my professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to build trust.

“Cagla has been a repeat babysitter many times for us over the past year for our kids aged 2 and 4. She is punctual, responsive, and has great availability. She even traveled north of SF to babysit during a recent family trip, which gave us great piece of mind since we knew and trusted her already. What stands out about Cagla compared to other other caregivers we've worked with (and why we continue to work with her) is the amount of energy, drive and attention she has in her work with children. She knows what ages various milestones happen (e.g. separation anxiety) and is prepared to handle them. She always asks the important practical questions about routines and schedules, and provides a clear update at the end of the stay. She is warm and plays with our kids on their level, but also very clear with them when they are crossing boundaries they shouldn't. Our children look forward to spending time with her!”

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Krystal
Booked by 11 repeat families
13 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 18 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi my name is Krystal and I have been babysitting since I was about 12 or 13 and love it! I babysit children of all ages and enjoy playing outside games or even staying inside to play. In my spare time I enjoy watching and playing sports, baking, and volunteering! I have volunteered at soup kitchens, marathons, and the Ronald McDonald House!

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Paula
Booked by 8 repeat families
9 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 18 families in San Mateo, CA

My name is Paula. I’m 24 years old. From Colombia, my first language is Spanish but I’m fluent in English. I have experience with newborns, infants, toddlers and multiples at the same time. (Willing to give references) I have 7 years of experience with kids and I love taking care/being around kids. I was an Au Pair. I worked in a preschool with toddlers for two years and currently I’m working with infants. I’m family oriented and care about people around me and how I make them feel. I consider myself open minded, patient, respectful, responsible, flexible, organized, energetic, kind, fun-loving and independent. I love animals, I’m okay with any kind of foods. CPR, first aid, AED certification. Excelente driving record. Non smoker. I’m fully vaccinated, Willing to do light housekeeping and teach Spanish. Thank you

“Paula was great with my 5 yr old son! They played outside a ton and walked to a near by park. He said he had a great day! Will definitely book again! ”

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Rafaella
Booked by 1 repeat family
5 reviews
$38 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 7 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi families! My name is Rafaella, and I’m a career nanny and family assistant with 9+ years of professional experience caring for children from newborns through the teenage years. I’m currently available on weekends only for occasional babysitting, date nights, and one-time childcare opportunities. I have extensive experience with childcare, mother’s helper, and family-assistant responsibilities. I’m comfortable with meal preparation, children’s routines, activities, and keeping little ones engaged through outings, arts and crafts, and age-appropriate play. I’m reliable, nurturing, organized, and genuinely love what I do. I look forward to connecting with families looking for dependable weekend care!

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $31.24
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $37.08
  • Typical job length: 4.8 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.

2,370 sitters background checked in San Mateo, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 27,951 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 $31.24 per hour for 1 child, and $37.08 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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