"Amina came and helped us out when our babysitter canceled last minute. She was great with our kids. Even our 11 month old son who has stranger anxiety warmed up to her."
Marie C., parent
Find a last-minute babysitter in Arcata, CA
Need a sitter on short notice? Arcata families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.
Looking for jobs? Apply here.
Experienced last-minute babysitters in Arcata, CA
Families in Arcata use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
Avg hourly rate: $19.00/hr
All babysitters shown here are background checked every year. Learn more.
Spencer $20 per hour for 1 child
For many years, I have been a kids' bike coach and childcare professional. I have lots of experience managing groups of kids in all situations. While working with kids I have excelled at helping them to develop into bright individuals. The majority of the work I have done is with elementary and middle school children. In addition to being a paid bike coach, I also volunteer as a coach for a local middle and high school mountain bike team. This has been my favorite position because I have the opportunity to work with kids for an extended amount of time and see them grow as people. I have about 1 year of in-classroom experience with ages 4-9. I love working with and around children, and I hope to be a great fit for you and your family!
Sophie $18 per hour for 1 child
Hi! My name is Sophie. I am 19 and looking to babysit for kids in need of childcare around Humboldt! My current rate is $20/hr. I am available after 5pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and 2pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I'm open all day on Fridays. I love doing arts and crafts, outside exploration, and participating in imaginative play. I've worked at the Toy Box in Henderson Center for 2.5 years, and I also have 6 months of experience as a daycare aid at Busy Baby Academy (working with infants ages 6-18 months). I've been babysitting for the past couple months now and I love it! I have great references. I'm so excited to meet you and your child! Thank you for reading and your consideration. 😊
Live near a college or university? View babysitters by college
How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Arcata, CA?
- Average hourly rate for 1 child: $19.00
- Most requested times: Evenings, weekends, after school
As of October 2026
Recent babysitter activity in Arcata, CA
Trust matters, especially on short notice
Babysitters on UrbanSitter are background checked every year, with every profile individually reviewed by our Trust and Safety team.
"She was so flexible and came last minute to help out. The house was really neat when I got home and both kids were asleep. Two thumbs up!"
Jenny S., parent
"Thrisa was amazing! Came over last minute and took amazing care of our 11 month old - including bedtime - she's coming back tomorrow :)"
Jesse D., parent
Find a last-minute babysitter in Arcata
Submit a request to hear from available sitters.
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Find a last-minute babysitter in Arcata
Submit a request to hear from available sitters.
We use email to send essential communication regarding your account.
To sign up with Facebook, we need permission to use your email address.
Sharing your friends list is optional, and allows us to connect you with sitters they book and recommend. Nothing will be shared or posted.
Why Arcata families choose UrbanSitter for last-minute child care
Quick responses when plans change
In most cities, average response time for last-minute requests is under two minutes.
Recommended by Arcata families
See which babysitters have been hired by parents at your child's school, preschool, or neighborhood in Arcata.
Background checked, every year
Every babysitter clears an annual background check, offering peace of mind even on short notice.
Read reviews, then decide
See parent reviews, repeat families, and average response times to find the right fit fast.
Frequently asked questions about finding a last-minute babysitter in Arcata
How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Arcata?
Sign up on UrbanSitter, enter your zip code, and submit a request with your timing and care needs. Babysitters near Arcata who are available can respond to your request. Before choosing, you can view profiles, parent reviews, and shared connections.
How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Arcata?
As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Arcata is $19.00 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Arcata.
Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?
Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check. You can also read reviews from Arcata families and see shared connections before you book. See what's included in the background check.
Can I find a same-day babysitter in Arcata?
Same-day requests are common on UrbanSitter. Submit a request with your timing and care needs, and available sitters in Arcata can respond. In most cities, the average response time for urgent requests is under two minutes.
Should I pay more for a last-minute babysitter?
Some parents offer a slightly higher rate for last-minute or same-day requests, but it is not required. On UrbanSitter, rates are set by individual babysitters. You can see each babysitter's hourly rate on their profile before you book.
What if I need a babysitter last minute today?
To find a last-minute babysitter today, share your timing and care needs on UrbanSitter. Available babysitters in Arcata can respond, and you can review profiles before choosing.
Resources
Tips for finding last-minute child care
Ideas and strategies for when your plans change and you need a sitter.
How much does a babysitter cost?
See average babysitting rates by city and across the country.
Free printable emergency contacts card
A quick printable card to leave with your sitter in case something unexpected comes up.
