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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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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

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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!

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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.

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Vicky
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in San Mateo, 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!

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Lavinia $30 per hour for 1 child

I have a degree in Psychology from UFRJ (Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro), in Brazil. When I first came to the U.S.(96) I was a stay at home mom. my kids were 7 and 2. I've been working with kids (other than mine) since 2003. I have been serving and helping families with children ranging in ages from 4 months to 6 years old. I think it's fun and very rewarding to see any child grow, and I'm happy and proud to be a part of a child's development, as well as give parents a helping hand in their journey of raising their children.

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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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