"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.
Maddy $25 per hour for 1 child
Hi, my name is Maddy. I am a recent SDSU graduate with a bachelors in kinesiology. My goal with my degree is to become an occupational therapist in the future. I offer pet care and household services. I am experienced with cats and dogs. I have grown up with cats my whole life and am capable of feeding, playing, and tending to cat litter. I have had a dog for the past seven years and am able to walk, feed, and play with them. I am comfortable with large animals and those that shed. I offer services in cleaning, cooking, laundry, errands, and organizing. I also enjoy baking and would be happy to make some sweet treats upon request of the family. A fun fact about me is I saw John Cena at the mall in San Diego one time.
Emily $25 per hour for 1 child
Hi my name is Em I’ve recently moved back to the Bay Area from traveling and am looking for a fulfilling role with either children or seniors. I have experience working in childcare in a variety of forms such as, daycare provider, mother’s helper, and personal nanny. I’ve worked with children 10months- 5 years, but open to working with older kids as well. I’m comfortable with chores, errands, overnights, and helping the family in any way that I can as well. I have a background in health and wellness as a yoga instructor and am interested in finding a position focused on outdoor activities or where I can help children develop their curiosities and hobbies. I also have senior family members who I spend time with and would find fulfillment continuing to work as a helper.
Lauren $35 per hour for 1 child
Hi! I’m a dependable and engaging caregiver with extensive hands-on experience caring for young children. I’m a mom of two children, so I’m familiar with daily routines, transitions, and the needs of infants, preschool and early elementary-aged kids. I also have experience providing care for teens and tweens. I enjoy keeping kids engaged through art projects, books, imaginative play, building activities, and outdoor time, while also maintaining a calm and fun environment. I have prior babysitting experience and bring a patient and attentive approach to caregiving. I’m comfortable managing meals, playtime, and bedtime routines, and I’m also pet-friendly with many years of experience caring for cats. I’m currently seeking occasional and part-time babysitting opportunities and am happy to support families who need a reliable, caring sitter.
Anahi $30 per hour for 1 child
I am energetic, reliable, and have a flexible schedule. I have worked at an after school program for the last 6 years. I worked as an instructor with grades TK through 8th grade of classes averaging 20-25 students. I have also worked as a middle school academic success advisor. I am also bilingual in English and Spanish. I have babysat my nieces and nephews currently ranging from 8 months to 17 years old.
Rowena $28 per hour for 1 child
Hello! My name is Rowena. I've been caregiving for 4 years, but it feels like more. I'm currently working home health in clients homes. Occasionally dog sitting on the side. I also have experience working with children Autism.
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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.
