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Find a last-minute babysitter in San Mateo, CA

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

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110 available last-minute babysitters in San Mateo, CA

Families in San Mateo use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
104 available today | Avg hourly rate: $31.23/hr

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

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Pattara $30 per hour for 1 child

Hi, my name is May. I have over 7 years of experience as a live-in nanny and au pair, caring for children from infants to school age. I truly enjoy supporting kids through every stage of growth — from diapering and potty training to homework help and after-school activities. Over the years, I’ve cared for newborns, toddlers, and school-aged kids (up to 4 at once!) and have helped families with everything from school drop-offs to bedtime routines. I love keeping children engaged with creative play, reading, outdoor activities, and structured routines that make them feel secure. In addition to childcare, I also provide household support including meal preparation, laundry, light housekeeping, organization, and managing busy family schedules. Safety is always a priority — I’m CPR and First Aid certified, fully vaccinated, and I have a clean driving record. Families describe me as reliable, patient, and caring. I take pride in creating a safe, loving environment where children thrive and parents feel supported.

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Kristen $30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in San Mateo, CA

Mom of a 16‑year‑old with 15 years of nanny experience. I’m calm, dependable, and great with kids and pets of all ages. I also have 20 years of household management and personal assistant experience.

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Sophia $25 per hour for 1 child

Hi! I’m Sophia, a behavioral aide at a therapeutic day school who is passionate about supporting children’s growth, learning, and well-being. I’ve been babysitting and tutoring since I was 14 years old and have experience working with children of all ages, from newborns through teenagers. In addition to childcare, I have worked as a family assistant, helping with household tasks such as cooking, cleaning, running errands, and caring for pets. I enjoy being a dependable extra set of hands and helping families keep their busy lives running smoothly. In my current full-time role, I work with elementary and middle school students who have a variety of learning disabilities and mental health challenges. This experience has made me especially comfortable working with neurodivergent children and supporting kids in educational settings. My strengths include creating consistent routines, planning fun and engaging activities, helping with homework and academics, and building positive, supportive relationships with children. I’d love the opportunity to get to know your family and help create a safe, fun, and engaging environment for your children!

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Fernanda $35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in San Mateo, CA

I’m a nanny with 17 years of experience here and in London with kids all ages and I have great references. I’m currently working for a family for 6 years taking care of their 2 kids since they were babies, but now they both are at school and I have mornings to 1pm free.

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Olga
Booked by 22 repeat families
25 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 55 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi everyone,my name is Olga and I am a responsible, energetic, friendly, sociable, punctual, and easy going person. I enjoy spending time with kids. I used to work as a teacher assistant when I was in my country. I have experience at taking care toddlers, infants and school age kids. I like outdoor activities like going to the park, walkings, soccer, going to the library, and going to new places with kids. I also do drop offs and pick ups. I have experience at date nights and weekends. I have my own car, and I have references. I will be happy to help you with your kids. Hope to hear from you soon!!

“Olga was great!”

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $31.23
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $37.10
  • Typical job length: 4.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in San Mateo, 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.

2,378 sitters background checked in San Mateo, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 28,371 reviews in San Mateo, 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 San Mateo

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why San Mateo 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 San Mateo families

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

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 San Mateo

How do I find a last-minute babysitter in San Mateo?

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

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in San Mateo is $31.23 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in San Mateo.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

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

Can I find a same-day babysitter in San Mateo?

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

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