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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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66 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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Vitória 2 reviews
$38 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Santa Cruz, CA

I’m someone who genuinely enjoys being around kids! I have 5+ years of experience, I’m reliable and patient, and I love keeping kids active, happy, and engaged.

“Vittoria has been watching our two kids, ages 7 and 9, for about a year, and we adore her. She is always on time and completely reliable, but what really makes her special is how present she is with them. She does not just watch them, she plays with them, remembers their favorite books, and truly cares. This past summer, while I was working, she went above and beyond, helping the girls sort through old schoolwork, clear out clothes they had outgrown, and get organized for the next school year. She is honestly a lifesaver. She is quick to respond, sends pictures so we always know how things are going, and is wonderfully flexible when our schedule shifts. We recommend Vittoria wholeheartedly to any family looking for a sitter who is dependable, warm, and truly loves what she does.”

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Riskariyani
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review
$32 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Santa Cruz, CA

I have experiences working for several families from different backgrounds. Which allows me to communicate and adjust easily with their culture and values in terms of giving cares to the kids. From newborns to pre-teens, I have given the best care and excellent performance. I have a degree and experience as a tutor, so I am able to help with the homework, art and craft, science experiment, story telling and reading, and doing activities outside the house such as swimming, going to the park, biking, tennis, soccer, basketball, and any other activities that will help your kids growth! I can help with meal preparation for babies, toddlers, and teens. As well as helping with light chores. Please contact me if you have any questions about my qualifications. Will be happy to meet you in person! Thank you 😊

“She did an amazing job and was extremely helpful!”

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Terri 1 review
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi, I’m Terri I have 7+ years experience working with various ages of children and babies and I’m a Silicon Valley native. I’ve grown up helping out with babies to teenagers, I’m the oldest of six and I love animals of all kinds and I don’t mind them in the home.

“She is sweet, punctual, sent me a photo and update while I was away, and did everything to make Tay as comfortable with the transition as possible! He was happy and calm when I returned :)”

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Srishti
Booked by 2 repeat families
2 reviews
$25 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 4 families in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi, I'm Srishti! I am a recent college graduate with a degree in Psychology living in San Jose. I have a diverse background in childcare—including experience as a neurodivergent camp counselor and as a volunteer at a local elementary school. My academic background gives me a deep understanding of child development, which helps me create supportive, engaging environments. I love keeping kids active with art projects, park outings, and playing games. I am also fully available for dog, cat, and house sitting. I have multiple local references available and would love to set up a brief introductory meeting to ensure a perfect fit for your family!

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Brooklyn
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Santa Cruz, CA

Heyyy families! My name is Brooklyn, I’m 27 years old. I have my A.A is Psychology and am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional science with a Dietetics concentration. I’m am looking for part-time nanny opportunities. I have been working with kids for over 5 years, with children as little as 5 months old to 16 year olds. I’m young, I’m active, and I know all the new trends these kids are into these days😂 I can help with homework and I always cater a fun and safe environment for your kid to be a kid while also aiding in their milestones! I am also looking for occasional/ regular house sitting opportunities so store my profile away for the holidays, vacations, or just being out of town, when you need your home to be watched and cared for! I’m looking forward to hearing from you all!

“She was great and showed up on time. Very communicative and really helpful with my toddler. ”

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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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