"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 Berkeley, CA
Need a sitter on short notice? Berkeley families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.
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253 available last-minute babysitters in Berkeley, CA
Families in Berkeley use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
231 available today | Avg hourly rate: $30.90/hr
All babysitters shown here are background checked every year. Learn more.
Margaret 1 review
$25 per hour for 1 child
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Berkeley, CA
Hello! My name is Margaret! I’m new here, and excited to start my part time position becoming your house sitter, cleaner, or pet sitter. I can also pick up kids from school, do laundry or errands and things of that nature. I can provide people who can attest that I am trustworthy, kind, and that I learn very quickly! I am super diligent and hardworking and most of all, focused. Hope to talk to you soon!
“Margaret has been a fantastic helper for our family. She's always punctual and reliable. She works really hard and takes directions well. She takes on any new household task that we throw her way with enthusiasm. We are very happy to have found her and grateful for her support.”
Nkosha 1 review
$22 per hour for 1 child
$22 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Berkeley, CA
My name is Momo and I’m a former Au Pair looking for a family that needs a live in nanny. I have experience with toddlers and middle school children. I am comfortable and have experience with dogs and would to learn about more cultures.
Jessica
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 repeat family
2 reviews$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 3 families in Berkeley, CA
a mother myself, I bring both personal understanding and hands-on experience in caring for children of all ages. I truly enjoy engaging kids in meaningful ways-whether through reading, painting, games, outdoor activities, or simply supporting their daily routines with patience and care. Families describe me as loving, reliable, and attentive. I'm also highly organized, a strong multitasker, and always punctual. Beyond childcare, I'm a dedicated yoga practitioner, naturally caring, and an animal lover. With excellent references available, I am confident in my ability to provide a safe, nurturing, and joyful environment for your children.
“Jessica is INCREDIBLE. She’s a mother herself and so taking care of children is natural, intuitive, and she genuinely loves and cares for kids. She handled the full morning routine for my 3 kids when I was out of town, including driving them to school, and knocked it out of the park. We’ve had her support multiple times since. She is warm and lovely to be around. Jessica is truly a gem!”
Cody 1 review
$25 per hour for 1 child
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Berkeley, CA
I’m the middle child of six, so moderating sibling conflict is something I’m extensively familiar with. This also means I have a ton of nieces and nephews, so I’ve had experience with children from infants up to high school. Arts and crafts are my jam! Anything artsy is right up my alley. I’m also reasonably good at most ball sports (don’t ask me to surf though; it’s not pretty) and like the outdoors. I’m a hands-on learner, so I try to impart any academic lessons in a fun, participation-oriented way to keep kiddos engaged. I’m also an experienced housekeeper, cook, and pet sitter (I’m a current cat servant -iykyk- and grew up with dogs, cats, hamsters, chickens, sheep, lizards, and horses).
“Cody was great. The kids had lots of fun with her. ”
Azul 5 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 9 families in Berkeley, CA
Hi, my name is Azul, I have a degree in Social Communication. I have 6 years of experience in taking care of babies, toddlers + kids. Have CPR and First Aid certifications. Bilingual: English and Spanish. California DL with a clean record (experience driving kids).
“Azul was so sweet and caring with my two month old! She took great care of my little girl for a full day - helping baby eat and sleep as needed and communicating with me to make sure I was comfortable. We can’t wait to have her over again! ”
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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Berkeley, CA?
- Average hourly rate for 1 child: $30.90
- Average hourly rate for 2 children: $36.80
- Typical job length: 4.7 hours
- Most requested times: Morning
As of October 2026
Recent babysitter activity in Berkeley, 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.
2,531 sitters background checked in Berkeley, CA
5.0 average star rating from total of 30,315 reviews in Berkeley, CA
"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 Berkeley
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Find a last-minute babysitter in Berkeley
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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley families
See which babysitters have been hired by parents at your child's school, preschool, or neighborhood in Berkeley.
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 Berkeley
How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Berkeley?
Sign up on UrbanSitter, enter your zip code, and submit a request with your timing and care needs. Babysitters near Berkeley 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 Berkeley?
As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Berkeley is $30.90 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Berkeley.
Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?
Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check. You can also read reviews from Berkeley families and see shared connections before you book. See what's included in the background check.
Can I find a same-day babysitter in Berkeley?
Same-day requests are common on UrbanSitter. Submit a request with your timing and care needs, and available sitters in Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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.
