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Find a last-minute babysitter in Santa Cruz, CA

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

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65 available last-minute babysitters in Santa Cruz, CA

Families in Santa Cruz use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
9 available today | Avg hourly rate: $29.93/hr

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

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Hannah $27 per hour for 1 child

Hello! I’m a fun-loving nanny who believes the best days are spent being active and curious. From backyard adventures and local park trips to building LEGO masterpieces and arts and crafts, I love staying hands-on. I’m highly dependable, CPR-certified, and comfortable with pets. My goal is to make sure your kids are happy, healthy, and tired by the time you get home! I have 3+ years of experience with children aged 1-12. I am always open to helping out with behind the scenes tasks like laundry or dishes. I look forward to becoming a trusted extension of your family!

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Catie $25 per hour for 1 child

Hi, I’m Catie! I’m a 23 year old oldest sister, experienced nanny, and Wellesley College alumna new to the Santa Cruz area. During my gap year before my college, I worked 40-60 hours a week nannying two absolutely incredible kids (ages 2 and 4). And over the course of my undergrad, I worked 5-15 hours a week with a lovely family caring for their 4 year old daughter. In both these roles, I also assisted with organization, transportation, and housekeeping needs. I align with the Montessori philosophy of childcare, and think it’s imperative that kids feel seen, heard, and understood, and that they feel safe and empowered to learn and have fun! I’m looking for part-time and babysitting work. Please reach out - I’d love to see if I’m the right fit for your family!

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Sophie $20 per hour for 1 child

I am a reliable, creative caregiver with six years of experience babysitting families with up to four children and working as a camp counselor. As a senior at UC Santa Cruz majoring in Art History and minoring in Education, I lean into my artistic background to plan engaging, art-driven activities and games that keep kids inspired and entertained. I am highly organized and skilled at managing daily routines, from school pick-ups to meals and bedtime. Beyond childcare, I have a strong background in household and animal care, including house sitting for families with dogs and cats, and volunteering for years at an animal rescue. Safety is my top priority; I am Red Cross certified in Adult, Child, and Infant CPR and hold a Food Handlers Permit. With my friendly, positive attitude, I focus on creating a fun, safe, and structured environment for your family.

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Brooke $25 per hour for 1 child

Hi! I’m Brooke, and I’ve been caring for kids for as long as I can remember. I’ve helped raise little ones from newborns all the way up to double-digit ages, so I’m very comfortable with every stage. I’m also a college graduate with a degree in psychology and have used that knowledge to become a Registered Behavioral Technician and work professionally with kids with autism, which taught me a lot about patience, creativity, and supporting kids’ unique needs. I’m CPR and First Aid certified, outgoing, fun, and super active. I love keeping kids engaged, playing games, and helping them learn and grow in a safe and happy environment!

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Nuray
Booked by 7 repeat families
6 reviews
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 16 families in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi, I have 9 years experience as a nanny with infants 4+ years, toddlers 3 years,more than 1 year +special kids (autism) and school ages. I graduated from design school and have ECE education. I have covid vaccine, flu shot, Tdap and booster shots. I have a clean driving record. I have CPR certification. Thank you.

“Nuray played with my boys and helped them clean up afterwards.”

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

  • Average hourly rate for 1 child: $29.93
  • Average hourly rate for 2 children: $36.03
  • Typical job length: 5.8 hours
  • Most requested times: Morning

As of October 2026

Recent babysitter activity in Santa Cruz, 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.

206 sitters background checked in Santa Cruz, CA

5.0 average star rating from total of 1,127 reviews in Santa Cruz, 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 Cruz

Submit a request to hear from available sitters.

Why Santa Cruz 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 Cruz families

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

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 Cruz

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

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

As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Santa Cruz is $29.93 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Santa Cruz.

Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?

Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check. You can also read reviews from Santa Cruz 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 Cruz?

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

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