Family with caregiver

Find an emergency babysitter in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz families count on UrbanSitter for same-day emergency child care. In most areas, average response time for urgent needs is under two minutes.

Looking for jobs? Apply here.

67 available babysitters in Santa Cruz, CA

Families in Santa Cruz turn to UrbanSitter for emergency and same-day babysitting.
9 available today | Avg hourly rate: $29.98/hr

Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check, and every profile is individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team. Learn more.

Profile photo
Alexandra $25 per hour for 1 child

Hii! My name is Alexandra, and I’m currently a freshman at UCSC! I’m offering child care services to families who need an extra hand. I love being around kids and have been babysitting for a few years now. I have many nieces and nephews who I’ve helped care for since they were newborns, so I’m comfortable caring for children of different ages. I’m flexible with hours and I’m happy to help with cooking, cleaning, and keeping the kids entertained and comfortable. Most importantly I’ll make sure your children are safe and well cared for.

Profile photo
Hannah $27 per hour for 1 child

Hello! I’m a fun-loving nanny who believes the best days are spent being active and curious. From backyard adventures and local park trips to building LEGO masterpieces and arts and crafts, I love staying hands-on. I’m highly dependable, CPR-certified, and comfortable with pets. My goal is to make sure your kids are happy, healthy, and tired by the time you get home! I have 3+ years of experience with children aged 1-12. I am always open to helping out with behind the scenes tasks like laundry or dishes. I look forward to becoming a trusted extension of your family!

Profile photo
Catie $25 per hour for 1 child

Hi, I’m Catie! I’m a 23 year old oldest sister, experienced nanny, and Wellesley College alumna new to the Santa Cruz area. During my gap year before my college, I worked 40-60 hours a week nannying two absolutely incredible kids (ages 2 and 4). And over the course of my undergrad, I worked 5-15 hours a week with a lovely family caring for their 4 year old daughter. In both these roles, I also assisted with organization, transportation, and housekeeping needs. I align with the Montessori philosophy of childcare, and think it’s imperative that kids feel seen, heard, and understood, and that they feel safe and empowered to learn and have fun! I’m looking for part-time and babysitting work. Please reach out - I’d love to see if I’m the right fit for your family!

Profile photo
Sophie $20 per hour for 1 child

I am a reliable, creative caregiver with six years of experience babysitting families with up to four children and working as a camp counselor. As a senior at UC Santa Cruz majoring in Art History and minoring in Education, I lean into my artistic background to plan engaging, art-driven activities and games that keep kids inspired and entertained. I am highly organized and skilled at managing daily routines, from school pick-ups to meals and bedtime. Beyond childcare, I have a strong background in household and animal care, including house sitting for families with dogs and cats, and volunteering for years at an animal rescue. Safety is my top priority; I am Red Cross certified in Adult, Child, and Infant CPR and hold a Food Handlers Permit. With my friendly, positive attitude, I focus on creating a fun, safe, and structured environment for your family.

Profile photo
Brooke $25 per hour for 1 child

Hi! I’m Brooke, and I’ve been caring for kids for as long as I can remember. I’ve helped raise little ones from newborns all the way up to double-digit ages, so I’m very comfortable with every stage. I’m also a college graduate with a degree in psychology and have used that knowledge to become a Registered Behavioral Technician and work professionally with kids with autism, which taught me a lot about patience, creativity, and supporting kids’ unique needs. I’m CPR and First Aid certified, outgoing, fun, and super active. I love keeping kids engaged, playing games, and helping them learn and grow in a safe and happy environment!

Live near a college or university? View babysitters by college

Children playing together

How much does an emergency babysitter cost in Santa Cruz, CA?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $29.98
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $36.30
  • Typical job length: 5.9 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Santa Cruz, CA

When it's urgent, trust comes first

All UrbanSitter babysitters are background checked every year. Profiles are individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team.

205 sitters background checked in Santa Cruz, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 1,127 reviews in Santa Cruz, CA

photo of quoted parent Hillary

"We were incredibly grateful that Maya was able to help us out with a last-minute childcare emergency. She matched our 9-year-old's energy with arts & crafts, some quiet reading, and a walk around the neighborhood. We'd have Maya back in a heartbeat!"

Hillary S., parent

photo of quoted parent Theresa

"We used Tania for a last minute emergency. She responded very quickly. My daughter seemed to enjoy herself. My son napped most of the time. I enjoyed how she kept me updated by text."

Theresa M., parent

photo of quoted parent Lauren

"Hannah was awesome. Went above & beyond to help me with a last minute emergency. She was really sweet & great with my 16mo old. Highly recommend!!"

Lauren D., parent

Family with caregiver

Find emergency care in Santa Cruz

Share your needs and hear from available sitters.

Why families trust UrbanSitter for emergency babysitting

Trusted by Santa Cruz families

See which babysitters have been hired by parents in your Santa Cruz neighborhood, school, or parenting group.

Fast responses for urgent needs

Average response times for last-minute requests are under two minutes in most areas.

Background checked, every year

Every babysitter completes an annual background check, offering peace of mind when you need it most.

Reviews from local parents

Read reviews from local families, see repeat family counts, and compare profiles before you choose.

Frequently asked questions about emergency babysitters in Santa Cruz

How do I find an emergency babysitter in Santa Cruz?

Sign up for an UrbanSitter account, then share the date, time, and number of children who need care. Available sitters in Santa Cruz can respond, and you can review full profiles before booking.

How much does an emergency babysitter cost in Santa Cruz?

As of October 2026, babysitting rates in Santa Cruz average $29.98 per hour for one child, and vary by experience, number of children, and job length. For same-day care, offering a higher rate can help attract interest and a faster response. See average babysitting rates in your area.

Are babysitters in Santa Cruz on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check, including those in Santa Cruz, and each profile is individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team. See what's included in the background check.

Can I find a babysitter in Santa Cruz for today or tonight?

Yes. Same-day and tonight requests are common on UrbanSitter. Share your care needs and available sitters can respond. You can read reviews, watch profile videos, and choose the right fit.

What's the best way to find a babysitter in Santa Cruz on short notice?

On UrbanSitter, when an urgent need comes up, share your timing, location, and care needs so available sitters can respond. See tips for finding last-minute child care for additional ways to find support.

What do I do if my babysitter cancels in Santa Cruz?

Sign into UrbanSitter and submit a new urgent request with your timing, location, and care needs. Available sitters can respond, and you can compare reviews, profile videos, and response times before choosing.

As seen on