"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 Palo Alto, CA
Need a sitter on short notice? Palo Alto families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.
Looking for jobs? Apply here.
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: $31.15/hr
All babysitters shown here are background checked every year. Learn more.
Lara $35 per hour for 1 child
Hi – My name is Lara and I’m a professional nanny with over 6 years of experience caring for children from infants to pre-teens. I’m CPR certified, bilingual in English and Portuguese, and passionate about creating safe, nurturing, and fun environments where kids can thrive. I’ve worked with families in Woodside, Menlo Park, Redwood City, and Portola Valley, providing everything from daily care to overnight stays while parents travel. My responsibilities have included driving to and from school, organizing playdates, helping with homework, preparing healthy meals, and planning creative activities. I love supporting children’s emotional growth, encouraging independence, and making each day both safe and enjoyable. I can also assist with light household tasks and am happy to provide great references from the families I’ve worked with.
Shawnee $18 per hour for 1 child
My names Shawnee and I’m 20 years old. I grew up with younger siblings and so many younger cousins that I took care of my whole life and also babysat all throughout highschool for family friends and mutuals. I’m a very outgoing person who is very high energy as well!
Leticia $40 per hour for 1 child
Hi, I’m Leticia mother of one and a grandmother of four. I was a live in nanny for a military family, family of five for 3 yrs. I also have been nanny for the same family for the last 12 years and now ready to move on to the next stage. I’m experienced with infants, toddlers , twins and school age. I’m dependable timely and committed to creating a safe environment for your family. I have a good driving record in my own transportation. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or set up a time to chat. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to talking with you. Thank you, LTamayo
Vicky
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Palo Alto, CA
Pet parent of one large dog has experience with animals Can do drop ins and overnight would be dependent on schedule Cats and dogs only please!
Maya
$40 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review$40 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Palo Alto, CA
I had working with wonderful family taking care of their little one with love , care .
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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Palo Alto, CA?
- Average hourly rate for 1 child: $31.15
- Average hourly rate for 2 children: $36.96
- 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.
1,289 sitters background checked in Palo Alto, CA
4.9 average star rating from total of 10,811 reviews in Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto
Submit a request to hear from available sitters.
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Find a last-minute babysitter in Palo Alto
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 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 $31.15 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.
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.
