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Find a babysitter in Santa Cruz, CA

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

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66 available babysitters in Santa Cruz, CA

Families in Santa Cruz use UrbanSitter for date nights, after school help, and last-minute babysitting.
7 available tonight | Avg hourly rate: $29.91/hr

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

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Gabrielle $29 per hour for 1 child

Hi families! I am a passionate, patient, and highly communicative caregiver who truly loves being a part of children's growth and daily milestones. I believe in creating a joyful, structured, and engaging environment for little ones. One of my favorite things is planning creative activities both indoors and outdoors. I love introducing music to children’s routines—I’ve been playing the keyboard since I was 12 years old and enjoy using music for learning and fun! I also love cooking healthy meals, diving into the magical world of Disney and cartoons, and planning special surprises or themed activities for holidays and celebratory dates to make their childhood memories extra magical. Open communication is very important to me. I love connecting with parents at the end of the day to share updates, talk about the children's daily routine, and ensure we are always aligned. I look forward to bringing safety, creativity, and lots of smiles to your home!

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Yesenia $25 per hour for 1 child

Hi there! My name is Yesenia, and I’m so excited to offer child care this summer to support your family. With over 10 years of experience working with children from 6 months to 12 years old, I bring a warm heart, a creative mind, and a lot of energy to everything I do. I’ve worked as a babysitter, in daycares, after-school programs, and summer camps, and I’ve even performed in children’s shows at California’s Great America—so keeping kids smiling and engaged is second nature to me! I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science (Preparation for Teaching) from San Jose State University and a Master’s degree in Teaching from Santa Clara University. I’ve also taught in bilingual classrooms for students in TK through 6th grade. Education is a huge passion of mine, and I love helping children grow, explore, and learn in fun and meaningful ways. I am passionate about working with kids because they keep me young at heart! I’m constantly inspired by their natural curiosity, joy, and honesty. From DIY art projects to story time to nature scavenger hunts, I believe in keeping kids busy in ways that continue to spark curiosity and creativity. Through it all, I lead with patience, positivity, and consistency. I believe children learn best by example, and I aim to show them how to be kind, respectful, curious, and confident in themselves. I’m caring, dependable, communicative, and always ensure I create a safe, supportive space where kids can be themselves. Outside of work, I love arts and crafts, reading, hiking, beach days, and staying active—especially with my dog and bearded dragon by my side. If you’re looking for a sitter who is responsible, nurturing, and genuinely passionate about working with kids, I’d love to be a part of your family’s summer!

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Viktoriia $30 per hour for 1 child

Hi! My name is Viktoriia. I currently work in a daycare with children aged 1.5–5 years old. I am caring, patient, and attentive, and I always make sure children feel safe, comfortable, and happy. I enjoy doing arts and crafts, especially drawing, and engaging kids in creative and age-appropriate activities. I pay close attention to cleanliness, hygiene, and safety, and I always follow routines and parents’ instructions.

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Manuela Maria $28 per hour for 1 child

Hello, my name is Manuela, I am 26 years old, I am from Colombia therefore my language is not English, I speak Spanish and I am in a progressive process of learning English, I have already worked with people who do not speak Spanish and they have given me the opportunity to give them my services without any problem, only a little patience. I'm looking for someone to share time with, I can after 4:00pm ... I have experience with children from 6 months to 10 years old ... I am a very charismatic person with children, loving and understanding ... I can give full attention to the needs of children, I like to play, and teach them new things that help them in their development depending on the age, in the middle of my care I can teach slightly Spanish and get good results if that is what you want as parents, I also have CPR certification.

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Paloma $50 per hour for 1 child

Hi! I’m a 29-year-old Speech and Language Therapist with a Master’s degree in Speech and Language Therapy and a genuine love of working with children. I have experience working with children of different ages and abilities, including children with additional needs, and I’m patient, caring, responsible, and creative. I enjoy keeping kids engaged through play, activities, reading, and outdoor time. I’m also fluent in English, French, and Spanish, so I’d be happy to speak any of these languages with your child. I’m currently looking to babysit alongside my work as a therapist and would love to help families with their childcare needs!

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How much does a babysitter cost in Santa Cruz, CA?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $29.91
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $36.20
  • Typical job length: 5.9 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Santa Cruz, 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.

205 sitters background checked in Santa Cruz, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 1,125 reviews in Santa Cruz, CA

photo of quoted parent Matt

"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 Santa Cruz babysitters

How much do babysitters cost in Santa Cruz, CA?

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Santa Cruz, CA is $29.91 per hour for 1 child, and $36.20 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 Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz?

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 Santa Cruz?

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 Santa Cruz?

Yes. Families in Santa Cruz 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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