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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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Deborah 3 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child

Hello! My name is Deborah, and I’m an experienced nanny with over 10 years of dedicated childcare experience. I began my first nanny position at 18 and was a live-in caregiver for two years. I have since worked with children ranging from infants as young as 6 months to preteens. Over the years, I’ve provided excellent care including diaper changes, bath time, meal preparation, school pick-ups, after-school activities, pet care, and house sitting. With a bachelor’s degree in Public Health, I’m passionate about fostering nurturing, educational, and engaging environments for children. I love creating activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, and movement, helping kids burn energy in healthy, fun ways. I’m active, dependable, and deeply enjoy supporting families by providing not just care, but genuine partnership in their children’s growth and development. And as an animal lover, I’m always happy to care for pets, too (unfortunately not cats as I am allergic).

“Debbie has babysat for my grandchildren. I have known her for many years since she was in her teens as she was my high school student. She is extremely good with children, fun, caring and reliable. I highly recommend her for any childcare position.”

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Bailey
Booked by 6 repeat families
2 reviews
$20 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 8 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi - My name is Bailey I am a junior in college. I am offering child care. I have been babysitting from 2017-present. I have experience in working with infants, toddlers, and children up to age 15. I have lots of experience from watching my cousins and family friends at a very young age. I have been responsible for taking children to the park, driving to and from school, helping the kids with homework, cooking, and cleaning up. I am open to taking on more responsibilities as well. I am a very responsible, caring, and very organized. I love working with children and pets. I am also cpr and first aid certified.

“My 9 year old son loved Bailey!”

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Alyssa
Booked by 1 repeat family
6 reviews
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 4 families in San Mateo, CA

Hi! I’m Alyssa, a 20-year-old college student currently studying Psychology. I’ve babysat for family and friends before, and I work at a daycare school for kids ranging from infants to elementary grades. I’m calm under pressure, dependable, and able to connect with kids pretty easily. I also have experience with tutoring and enjoy cooking, so I’m happy to help with homework and meal prep when needed. I have a very flexible schedule for the summer and would love to help out! Looking forward to connecting!

“Alyssa was energetic, attentive and engaging. My daughter had an amazing time with her! ”

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Jeniffer
Booked by 3 repeat families
2 reviews
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 8 families in San Mateo, CA

Hello! My name is Jeniffer. I’m currently a college student working on my BSN. Before returning to school I worked as a Medical Assistant for about 5 years where I gained experience caring for others. I enjoy caring for children, and being around kids has always come naturally to me. I understand how important it is for parents to have someone they can trust with their children and to have someone who is patient, dependable, attentive. I would love the opportunity to get to know your family and learn more about what you’re looking for in a sitter. Please feel free to reach out with any questions! 😊

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Lauren
Booked by 3 repeat families
2 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 3 families in San Mateo, CA

I am currently a PhD graduate student at Stanford University, obtaining my degree in stem cell biology. I am offering services with child care, senior care, pet care, and household services. I have 6 years of experience nannying and raising children 4 years of age and older (both boys and girls), with experience babysitting toddlers aged 2 and up. I love spending time with kids on activities and crafts that they love to do - everything from playing dolls to arts and crafts to playing catch. I can also provide help with homework. I have experience working with children with dyslexia, and working on reading and flashcards to help improve their reading skills. Additionally, I have several years experience providing caregiving to an elderly adult with dementia. I can help with daily tasks, appointments, meal preparation, or just being a companion. I also love animals! I have owned dogs, cats, horses, and every small animal you can think of. I can provide housework and help with organizational tasks - I love organizing! I am CPR and pediatric first aid certified. I’m learning Spanish but still a beginner conversationally.

“Lauren is an absolute angel, my kids love her and she has been so gracious and helpful, even in such short notice. She is kind, plays with them both in engaging ways and is and makes them feel good and happy by the end of the day. She even makes great art! My son says he has a great day, and my daughter is absolutely smitten. Thank you so much Lauren for supporting us in our times of need!”

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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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