Family with caregiver

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.

Looking for jobs? Apply here.

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.

Profile photo
Elizabeth $30 per hour for 1 child

Hello! I'm Liz, and I have been working with children and families for over 25 years in many different settings—as a babysitter, live-in nanny, tutor, after-school and summer program leader, scout camp staff, in-patient and out-patient mental health treatment provider, facilitating parenting classes, and as a therapist specializing in youth and families. I also grew up caring for my four younger brothers, as well as many nieces and nephews, so childcare has always been a natural part of my life. Alongside childcare, I have provided professional dog and cat sitting, cared for my own pets (including a bearded dragon!), and supported families with household tasks and cleaning. For example, I worked weekly for a family in Palo Alto for eight months, helping keep their home clean and welcoming. I especially enjoy organizing and home decor. With a background in social work and mental health, I strive to create a safe, affirming space for children and families, and I am experienced in supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work and a minor in Music, and I enjoy incorporating creativity, patience, and structure into the care I provide. Personally, I grew up in a small mountain town in Northern Utah, but have now called the Bay Area home for the past 15 years. Outside of work, I love rock climbing, reading, playing guitar and singing, art, tabletop games, and spending time at the beach. I’m also bilingual in English and conversational/intermediate-advanced Spanish. I’m a proud parent to two wonderful kids—an 19-year-old who lives in Utah and a 6-year-old who just started 1st grade. With my youngest now in school and spending part of the week with the other parent, I have more flexibility in my schedule to provide reliable care and support for other families. I bring not only professional experience but also the heart of a parent to the work I do. I look forward to meeting you!

Profile photo
Kara Jeanne
Booked by 2 repeat families
3 reviews
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 5 families in Santa Cruz, CA

Currently, I’m a Behavioral Aide in multiple school districts, mainly focusing on priority jobs from preschool to high school. I specialize with children that have an IEP and/or BIP. I do follow a positive discipline model as that’s important to me. If you have an infant, I know how hard it is to trust someone you don’t know. I’m 100% open to being on camera. I’m background checked, finger printed, clean driving record, all vaccines are current. Myself, I have two amazing daughters 9 and 14. I’ve been fortunate to be a stay at home Mom until they’ve no longer needed me (sigh, lol). I’m open to all jobs, even the last minute sick calls when you have to work. I did graduate from CNA school in October. I pride myself in adhering to the parents requests on what they want for their children.

Profile photo
Ida $22 per hour for 1 child

Hi there! I’m a 54year-old mom with a 23-year-old son in college and a super sweet 10-year-old mini poodle. I love hiking, family time, and being around kids and pets. I work from home full-time for Stanford Health Care, so I’m available after 3:30pm on weekdays, plus evenings, late stays, and weekends. I can help with babysitting, school pick-ups, dog sitting, dog walking, driving, cooking, and light cleaning—whatever makes your life easier. I’ve been caring for kids my whole life (nieces, nephews, friends’ little ones), and I truly enjoy it. I’m also looking to make some extra money to help support my son’s college costs. For peace of mind: • Global Entry (clear background) • Clean driving record • Total dog lover! If you’d like to chat and see if we’re a good match, feel free to reach out. Thanks for considering me!

Profile photo
Adriana
Booked by 1 repeat family
$27 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 2 families in Santa Cruz, CA

Hi, my name is Adriana, and I've lived in San Jose my whole life. I am currently a Student at West Valley College studying Child Growth & Development and French. I am also a competitive swimmer, and I did musical theatre when I was younger. I can help with both childcare and pet care. I am a certified lifeguard through the American Red Cross. I have experience working with children of all abilities and disabilities, with responsibilities including helping with homework and after-school activities. I have my own car as well as a license & insurance, and can help run errands. I enjoy cooking and can help with meal preparation as well. I have a lot of experience with both dog and cat care. Animals of all sizes and fur types are okay with me. I can take dogs on walks, to the dog park, drive them to appointments, and play with them.

Profile photo
Emily $25 per hour for 1 child

Hello! My name is Emily, and I am a local college student and a professional Afterschool Youth Leader with the . I specialize in providing premium childcare, dedicated pet care, and specialized household assistance as a trusted Mother's Helper. I have extensive, high-trust experience managing groups of children and working closely with local families. My background includes: * Working with the prestigious Harker Lower School afterschool program. * Years of private neighborhood babysitting for diverse family dynamics. * International experience tutoring children abroad in Taiwan! Medical & Health Safety: I have deep, personal, and firsthand experience managing Type 1 Diabetes and navigating specialized healthcare routines. If your child manages a health condition, I am fully prepared to follow strict care guidelines and provide a highly safe, attentive environment. I bring a vibrant, energetic, and creative approach to my shifts! I love organizing engaging activities like structured arts and crafts, interactive games, dancing, and fun fashion shows. I am highly organized, deeply value absolute cleanliness, and am happy to follow your exact family routines, assist with household tasks, or provide dedicated homework help.

Live near a college or university? View babysitters by college

Children playing together

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.

As seen on