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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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Erin $30 per hour for 1 child

Hi! I am a responsible, compassionate, and experienced sitter who genuinely enjoys spending time with children and creating a safe environment for learning and fun. I understand every child is unique, and it is important to learn their routines, needs, and interests. I am a recent graduate with a Master of Science in Geography, and have had experience teaching (and caring for) kids from elementary school age to freshman year of college. I am passionate about childhood education and helping kids develop their interpersonal skills. I find it almost magical watching children discover, learn, and apply new things to their everyday life! Although my experience hasn’t followed one continuous timeline, children have been ever-present in my life through a variety of professional and familial settings. I am able to provide tutoring, care, and driving services with a very flexible schedule. I prioritize safety, enrichment, and fun to give parents peace of mind while they’re away. I’d love the opportunity to get to know your family!

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Amy $40 per hour for 1 child

Professional Graduate Student & Former Educator Hi! I’m a high-energy professional and current Juris Doctor (JD) student with a passion for childcare. I’ve spent my career balancing professional excellence with a deep love for working with children. I currently work full-time in tech and hold an MBA from SCU, which means I bring a high level of responsibility, organization, and clear communication to every family I work with. Experience My foundation in childcare is formal and extensive I served as a preschool teacher for 3+ years, working hands-on with children ranging from 6 months to 5 years old. I am deeply familiar with developmental milestones, bottle feeding, potty training, and early childhood education. Beyond my professional teaching background, I am the go-to "Auntie" for my 7+ siblings, regularly caring for my many nieces and nephews. Whether it's managing a busy household of kids or a quiet night of homework help, I’ve seen and handled it all. What I Offer - Educational Support: As a law student, I’m happy to help with reading, writing, or school projects. -Health and Emotional Support: I enjoy making simple healthy meals for others to enjoy, and supporting healthy happy lifestyles through music, dance, outdoor movement, and games. - Safety & Reliability: I am a licensed professional with a focus on safety and punctuality. I am CPR/AED/First Aid certified by the Red Cross for adult & pediatric. - Animal Friendly: I’m a huge animal lover and am very comfortable with dogs and cats (I have two pups and a cat of my own! - Flexible & Discreet: I understand the needs of busy, professional households. Location: Based in San Jose | Open to Peninsula & SF

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Karunasri $35 per hour for 1 child

I would love to work with kids. I am very patient and friendly. Love to spend time with children. I am very focused and passionate at my work. I worked as baby sitter for a year and worked as a preschool teacher for 3 years. Currently working in Santa Clara unified school district in special education department.

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McKenna
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Santa Cruz, CA

I’m a responsible, energetic, and caring babysitter with experience working with children of all ages. I previously worked with Busy Bees Babysitting in Phoenix, Arizona, where I babysat part-time during the off-season while playing collegiate basketball at Grand Canyon University for three years. This experience helped me develop strong skills in childcare, safety, and keeping kids engaged in fun, age-appropriate activities. I recently moved to San Jose to finish my final year of basketball at San José State University, and my athletic background has strengthened my discipline, leadership, and time management skills. I genuinely enjoy working with kids, as a come from a big family, and creating a positive, safe, and fun environment for them. I’m patient, dependable, and great at building connections with children and families. I’m also happy to help with light household tasks, homework, and daily routines. I look forward to meeting your family!

“Sara is great! My daughter loves her!”

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Lillian 1 review
$35 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi! My name is Lillian, and I am seeking a part-time nanny position. I have experience working with children from 5 months to 13 years old and am passionate about supporting their growth and development in a safe, nurturing environment. I am currently a college student majoring in Childhood and Adolescent Development, with goals of becoming a teacher and eventually a school counselor. I am dedicated, responsible, and enjoy building meaningful relationships with children. I currently work as a recess coach at Booksin Elementary and previously worked at Gardner Elementary, gaining experience with a wide range of personalities and handling both positive and challenging situations. I also have extensive babysitting and nannying experience. In addition to childcare, I enjoy cooking and cleaning and am happy to help with household tasks and errands. I am organized, attentive, and committed to helping children thrive. I look forward to connecting with families soon!

“She was reliable and professional from start to finish. She handled our two high-energy children with ease, keeping them engaged and active the entire time. She had an endless supply of creative activities that kept them entertained and happy. We especially appreciated how she knew when to check in with us while still giving the kids her full attention. We felt completely at ease knowing they were in such capable and caring hands. ”

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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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