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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.
8 available today | Avg hourly rate: $29.93/hr

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

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Maria $28 per hour for 1 child

Hi! My name is Maria Paula, and I’m a caring, dependable person who truly enjoys spending time with children. I love creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where kids feel comfortable being themselves while learning and growing, and I enjoy to be around kids. I’m patient, attentive, and enjoy engaging children in activities like reading, crafts, outdoor play, and helping with routines that keep their day positive and structured. Building trusting relationships with both children and parents is very important to me, and I always strive to support each family’s unique needs and values. I’ve been working with the same family for the past four years, where I currently care for their 4-year-old and 8-year-old. During that time, I’ve gained a lot of experience managing daily routines, planning fun activities, playing with my kids and making sure the children feel happy and supported throughout the day. I’m currently looking for a full-time position with a family where I can provide consistent, loving care and become a positive part of your child’s daily life. I look forward to connecting and learning more about your family!

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

I’m a caring, responsible, and energetic caregiver with experience working with children of all ages, from babies and toddlers to school-age children and teenagers. I also have experience as a teacher, which has helped me become patient, creative, organized, and comfortable adapting to each child’s personality and needs. I truly enjoy spending time with kids, planning fun activities, helping with routines, meals, homework, transportation, and keeping their environment safe and organized. I also absolutely love animals and feel very comfortable caring for pets, including feeding, walking, playing, and pet sitting. I’m reliable, flexible, attentive, and always respectful of each family’s routines and preferences. I love creating a safe, positive, and fun environment for both children and pets!

“Luiza is great, showed up on time and was very friendly, genuine and nice with my 5M old baby. Will definitely be working with her again!”

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David $22 per hour for 1 child

I’m a caring, dependable caregiver with experience as a YMCA counselor, elementary classroom aide, and PE teacher. I’ve provided childcare for over 4 years and am a parent to a 9-year-old daughter. I also bring 5+ years of household services experience and 1 year of senior care, supporting two seniors with daily needs. I’m patient, organized, and genuinely love helping families feel supported and cared for.

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Jaylysa
Booked by 3 repeat families
4 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 8 families in Santa Cruz, CA

I am a responsible and passionate childcare provider with over 8 years of experience, committed to creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and engaged. Currently pursuing a psychology degree focusing on early childhood education, I prioritize both emotional and academic support for children's growth. Compassionate, empathetic, and a great listener, I build meaningful connections with children and families, ensuring trust and dependability. My multitasking skills and adaptability allow me to handle various tasks, from homework assistance to meal preparation. As a preschool teacher for the past two years, I've gained hands-on experience guiding children through educational activities and daily routines. I've also worked with California State for Choices for Children, adhering to state regulations, and my Trustline background check guarantees safety. If you're looking for a caring, responsible, and experienced childcare provider, I'd love the opportunity!

“Jaylysa was available on short notice and was engaging with the kids. She took my 2 kids to the park, fed them and put them to sleep. She communicated well, too. I would hire her again! ”

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Kylie $25 per hour for 1 child

Hello! My name is Kylie, and I’m 22 years old. I’m currently a student at West Valley College with a passion for working with children of all ages and abilities. I have over 12 years of babysitting experience, along with professional childcare experience at The Club at Los Gatos, where I worked with children ranging from 6 months to 12 years old. Growing up with four younger sisters (now ages 9, 15, 16, and 21) has also given me a lifetime of hands-on experience caring for kids. I am certified in CPR, First Aid, and AED through the American Red Cross. I’m happy to help with homework, enjoy planning creative art activities, and always strive to create a safe, fun, and supportive environment where children feel comfortable being themselves. One of my greatest passions is supporting children with special needs and neurodivergent children. I have several years of experience working with children with diverse needs, and one of the most meaningful experiences of my life was caring for an incredible young girl with autism. She inspired my love for working with children and helped shape the career path I hope to pursue. Looking ahead, my dream is to advocate for children's mental health and help improve mental health education and support within schools. Until then, I’m grateful for every opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of the children and families I work with. I would love the opportunity to care for your little one(s), provide them with a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment, and help make your day just a little easier. I look forward to meeting your family!

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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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