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Find a last-minute babysitter in Palo Alto, CA

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

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117 available last-minute babysitters in Palo Alto, CA

Families in Palo Alto use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
85 available today | Avg hourly rate: $31.14/hr

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

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Maria
Booked by 4 repeat families
9 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 25 families in Palo Alto, CA

Hello, My name is Maria. I studied Human Development & Family Sciences (early childhood education) with a double major in Elementary Education and a minor in Spanish.. I am a native Spanish speaker and am bilingual (Spanish/English). I have experience working with children of all ages from birth to adolescents. I love getting to know children and helping them achieve their potential. I am excited to get to know you and your child/children.

“My toddler warmed up to Maria very quickly! Maria was very responsive to my messages, was reliable, and I will definitely be hiring her again in the future.”

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Dana
Booked by 26 repeat families
25 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 37 families in Palo Alto, CA

Hi! Im currently searching for a morning position to fill my schedule. in the afternoons I provide care for a six year long term family. I have many years of newborn care experience, and would prefer to grow with a family. I love to be creative, have fun, cook and play! Would be happy to chat or answer any further questions!

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Gloria
Booked by 4 repeat families
5 reviews
$28 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 9 families in Palo Alto, CA

Hi my name is Gloria, I worked in a daycare over ten years ago. The woman I worked with closed her daycare and I changed careers. I miss working with kids I love exploring the world with toddler's for the first time. I enjoy playing make-believe, creating new worlds, arts & crafts. I enjoy playing board games and reading books.

“She was great. ”

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Bella
Booked by 7 repeat families
7 reviews
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 9 families in Palo Alto, CA

Hey! My name is Bella, and I am a second-year university student with 5 years of paid childcare experience. A little about me: - I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in finance - I work part-time at the Palo Alto Hills country club, previously coaching swim lessons but currently assisting in kids events and managing the front desk - I love baking treats and trying new recipes An overview of my experience - I coached swim lessons for 3 years for children ranging from 8 months to 14 years old - I led an afterschool cooking class with 25 elementary aged children solo at low-income schools - I hosted cooking classes and camps for children at Tastebuds Kitchen in Palo Alto for up to 30 young kids at a time - I have been babysitting for the past 5 years for multiple families - I have worked at numerous summer/break camps, most recently with Steve & Kate’s Other things to mention: - I have a reliable car, and am comfortable helping out with driving - I have a clean driving record - I am willing to help with household tasks and prefer to spend my downtime being helpful

“Punctual, professional, so sweet and attentive with our children. Thank you!!”

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Yarelli
Booked by 6 repeat families
8 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 13 families in Palo Alto, CA

Hi! My name is Yarelli. I’m 31 years old and starting my fifth year working at a middle school on the Peninsula as an Executive Assistant to the Principal. I’m a Redwood City local and currently live in Belmont with my husband and our dog. I’m also a proud SF State alum—Go Gators! I have 10+ years of experience working with children ages 2 months to 15 years old. I’ve worked in preschools, after-school programs, summer camps, as a nanny, and as a mother’s helper. I’m also the oldest of seven girls, including two sets of twins! My youngest sisters are 9-year-old twins. I also have 10+ years of pet care experience, including house sitting, dog sitting, and cat sitting. I grew up around dogs, mostly Pit Bulls, and currently have an 8-year-old rescued Chocolate Lab/Weimaraner, Beau, who I trained myself. I’m CPR and First Aid certified and available evenings, weekends, and occasional days off. Feel free to reach out, I’d love to help! Yarelli

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $31.14
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $36.97
  • Typical job length: 4.9 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Palo Alto, 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.

1,290 sitters background checked in Palo Alto, CA

4.9 average star rating from total of 10,821 reviews in Palo Alto, 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

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Find a last-minute babysitter in Palo Alto

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto families

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

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 Palo Alto

How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Palo Alto?

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

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Palo Alto is $31.14 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Palo Alto.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

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

Can I find a same-day babysitter in Palo Alto?

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

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