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Find a last-minute babysitter in Santa Barbara, CA

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

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7 available last-minute babysitters in Santa Barbara, CA

Families in Santa Barbara use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
7 available today | Avg hourly rate: $25.67/hr

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

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Andrea
Booked by 21 repeat families
57 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 91 families in Santa Barbara, CA

Background: I have taught in preschool settings all around the LA/Ventura area for about 9 years now with primarily the 2-5 age range. My background is in child development which I’ve studied in college. I got into the field when I interned at a local family resource center where I organized lesson plans and play groups for infants and toddlers. I consider myself a lifelong learner and study the Reggio Emilia approach and RIE philosophy with a passion as it tends to inspire my provocations. I was a full time teacher at a child development center in Ventura, California - that focused on nature-based learning, also known as the outdoor classroom approach. I stepped away from that career path in early June 2026. I also have some previous full/part time nannying experience (with infants/toddlers). About Me: I enjoy going to coffee shops, hitting the gym, lap swimming, walking my dog, baking and traveling to tropical places! I speak fluent English and Spanish Fine Print: •4 hour minimum per booking •Short Notice Cancellation Fee: 50% of booking total if cancelled within 24hrs of start time. •If anyone in your household has been sick within 72 hours of booking, please cancel said booking. I do not consent to working with sick children. I work with multiple families, including infants, and I want to ensure the health and well-being of everyone involved. I will also be transparent about my own health status. •All hours booked are considered “guaranteed hours” in terms of pay, even if I am relieved early or for any other reason. •Cash, Zelle and Venmo preferred! 😊

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Yuliana $21 per hour for 1 child

Hello! I am currently a grad student in School Psychology looking to earn some income. I have 5 years experience in working with kids. I worked at the YMCA in their after school and summer programs. I have some experience in ABA therapy. Lastly, I also work for the Ventura Unified School District. I am first aid and CPR certified and a mandated reporter.

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How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Santa Barbara, CA?

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $25.67
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $30.82
  • Typical job length: 5.7 hours
  • Most requested times: Evening

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Santa Barbara, 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.

24 sitters background checked in Santa Barbara, CA

4.9 average star rating from total of 261 reviews in Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara families

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

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 Santa Barbara

How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Santa Barbara?

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

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Santa Barbara is $25.67 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Santa Barbara.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

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

Can I find a same-day babysitter in Santa Barbara?

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

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