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Find a last-minute babysitter in Oakland, CA

Need a sitter on short notice? Oakland families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.

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362 available last-minute babysitters in Oakland, CA

Families in Oakland use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
343 available today | Avg hourly rate: $30.96/hr

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

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Thali
Booked by 52 repeat families
50 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 81 families in Oakland, CA

Hi - My name is Thalissa but you can call me Thali! I’ve been working with kids since I was 16, but my first experience came with my little sister’s birth almost 20 years ago. I started by taking care of her and then began babysitting for my neighbors back in Brazil. I’ve been working with different families in America since I got here 9 years ago. I am in the Berkeley area but also have worked in Oakland, Piedmont, Orinda, Moraga, Kensington, Albany, El Cerrito, and Alameda. I just had a baby girl mid April last year and took a break to enjoy motherhood! I am now back looking for new families! Please let me know if you think we could work well together and we can talk more about it. I have plenty of experience with infants, toddlers and older kids. I can also help with light housework and meal prepping. Last minute/same day requests: I will always try to accommodate as best as I can for same-day and last-minute requests, but please do keep in mind that I also have to find care for my child unless you are comfortable with me bringing her along. Cancelation policy: Please note that a 24 hour notice is expected for cancelations. If you happen to cancel a job and not allowed for a 24 hour notice, I expect to be paid for 50% of the agreed upon hours. If you cancel a job less than 12 hours before start time, I expect to be paid for all of the agreed upon hours. Emergencies do occur, but please take into account that this is my only source of income. Additionally, I always expect to be paid for all of the hours booked, even if you come home earlier or if the booking hours are changed less than a week before the job booked. This policy helps me structure and commit to my schedule, and allows for a mutual and transparent agreement. Work policy: I do not charge for cleaning after the kids and of course myself, and light housekeeping, but if it is expected housework and not agreed to beforehand I am not responsible for fulfilling it. I also charge 1.5x my rate for big holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Thank you. Thali

“Thali was punctual, respectful, and great with the kids. They seem to feel comfortable in her presence even though we usually only have family watching them. Highly recommend!”

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Nayely
Booked by 43 repeat families
62 reviews
$28 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 100 families in Oakland, CA

Caring for children and supporting families is a path I came to through my own upbringing, which gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of emotional support, secure relationships, and attuned caregiving throughout every stage of development. I hold a bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Development from UC Davis, and was recently awarded my Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute. I am currently in a doctoral program, specializing in childhood development and neurodevelopment disorders. Through my clinical training, I have had the privilege of working alongside children and families, bringing both a strong developmental perspective and genuine warmth to every interaction. My experience caring for children began early and has continued consistently through family, community, and professional caregiving. Over the past 12 years, I have worked with children of various ages and developmental needs, experiences that have shaped an approach grounded in careful observation, thoughtful engagement, and a calm, dependable presence. As a caregiver, I am attentive not only to children's safety and well-being, but also to how they think, feel, and make sense of the world around them. I engage with them intentionally, fostering curiosity, communication, confidence, and emotional awareness through meaningful everyday interactions. My clinical and practicum experiences have further strengthened my ability to meet children where they are developmentally while providing structure, warmth, and consistency. I view caregiving as a meaningful responsibility that requires preparation, sound judgment, and genuine compassion. I would be honored to support a family seeking a caregiver who combines extensive hands-on experience with advanced training in child development and clinical psychology.

“My child immediately fell in love with Nayely- she was so lovely and warm- immediately put me at ease. ”

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Melissa
Booked by 12 repeat families
20 reviews
$29 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 20 families in Oakland, CA

Hello — my name is Melissa! I am offering occasional child care. I’m happy to cover date nights, school or work events, or times you just need to focus on something else. I am a former elementary school teacher (and current medical assistant) with interests in education/tutoring, reading, and spending time outdoors. I can often be found with my kindle by the lake or checking out an East Bay coffee shop. My subject matter expertise while teaching was math and science for elementary students, but I have worked with children as young as infants up through high school age. I started babysitting and tutoring when I was in middle school and have worked with children throughout college and my career. If you think I might be a good fit for you, feel free to send me a message. Looking forward to connecting!

“Melissa was great - attentive, fun, and positive. Our kids loved having her stay with them!”

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Knar
Booked by 12 repeat families
14 reviews
$37 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 46 families in Oakland, CA

Hi, my name is Knar. I was born and raised in San Francisco and currently live in Oakland, with no issues commuting into the city. I have over 15 years of childcare experience and am deeply passionate about providing nurturing, dependable care that supports children’s growth, confidence, and development. My background includes three years working in a daycare setting and twelve years as a full-time nanny, giving me hands-on experience with children across a wide range of ages and stages. I value building close, trusting relationships with both children and parents and take pride in being a steady, supportive presence in a family’s life. My childcare philosophy centers on creating a safe, loving environment with clear structure, consistency, and care so children feel secure and encouraged as they grow. I am family-oriented, patient, respectful, and highly communicative, and I believe open and honest communication is the foundation of a strong partnership. In addition to childcare, I am happy to assist with light household tasks such as baby laundry and dishes, introducing solids, supporting developmental milestones, and tailoring care to each child’s unique needs. Availability update: I have a full-time position and am not currently available, but I appreciate you taking the time to view my profile.

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Guadalupe
Booked by 20 repeat families
31 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 37 families in Oakland, CA

Hellooo!! I’m Guadalupe but you can call me Guada, it is shorter and easier to pronounce :) I am looking for a part time very early in the mornings, or in the afternoons, ideally ~ 3 to 6pm (I have a remote part time job as well). I am a former Au Pair, and I lived with my host family for 3.5 years taking care of 2 kids (5 and 6 years old). Also, I have ~4 years of experience with two 5 y/o kids + experience with many occasional jobs with different families including baby-sitting and house management. Let me know if you are looking for a part time nanny or you need occasional help in the evenings! Gracias, Thank you! 7 years of experience working with kids ✔️ Experience handling situations with kids with special needs ✔️ Vaccinated + Booster ✔️ Energetic and highly motivated 🔝 Drivers license + experience driving in SF ✔️ I don't own a car❗️

“My 2 boys asked "when can Guadalupe come back?" as soon as she left. I asked what they liked and they said "she's so nice!" So, she was totally great to have over, and I would definitely ask for her help in the future!”

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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Oakland, CA?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $30.96
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $36.82
  • Typical job length: 4.7 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Oakland, 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.

2,639 sitters background checked in Oakland, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 30,991 reviews in Oakland, CA

photo of quoted parent Marie

"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

photo of quoted parent Jenny

"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

photo of quoted parent Jesse

"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

Family with caregiver

Find a last-minute babysitter in Oakland

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Why Oakland 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 Oakland families

See which babysitters have been hired by parents at your child's school, preschool, or neighborhood in Oakland.

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 Oakland

How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Oakland?

Sign up on UrbanSitter, enter your zip code, and submit a request with your timing and care needs. Babysitters near Oakland 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 Oakland?

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Oakland is $30.96 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Oakland.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check. You can also read reviews from Oakland families and see shared connections before you book. See what's included in the background check.

Can I find a same-day babysitter in Oakland?

Same-day requests are common on UrbanSitter. Submit a request with your timing and care needs, and available sitters in Oakland 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 Oakland can respond, and you can review profiles before choosing.

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