"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
Find a last-minute babysitter in Essex, MA
Need a sitter on short notice? Essex families find trusted, background checked babysitters on UrbanSitter.
Looking for jobs? Apply here.
34 available last-minute babysitters in Essex, MA
Families in Essex use UrbanSitter for last-minute date nights, schedule changes, backup care, and same-day babysitter needs.
Avg hourly rate: $25.07/hr
All babysitters shown here are background checked every year. Learn more.
Kathleen $18 per hour for 1 child
Hello! My name is Kathleen, I am a college student here in Boston offering childcare, household, and pet care services. I have a surplus of childcare experience between assistant teaching Dance classes since 2019, head coaching gymnastics for 3 years, and the past three summers I have been an overnight camp counselor. I have worked with kids from ages 4-15 between all three positions. I have a sufficient experience with house and pet sitting. Please feel free to reach out with any questions!
Sam
$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 repeat family
1 review$30 per hour for 1 child
Booked by 1 family in Essex, MA
Hi! My name is Sam, and I have over 10 years of experience caring for children of all ages — from infants to pre-teens. I’m passionate about creating a fun, safe, and nurturing environment where kids can learn and grow. I’m dependable, patient, and love engaging kids through crafts, reading, and outdoor activities. My goal is always to make sure your children feel happy, supported, and secure while you’re away.
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Aniyah $25 per hour for 1 child
Hi families! I'm Aniyah, and I'm currently looking for part-time babysitting position. I'm a certified babysitter with First Aid, CPR, and BLS Certifications, and I truly enjoy working with children - whether that's helping with homework, planning fun activities, or keeping routines smooth and stress-free for parents. I also handle Lighthouse cleanup and meal preparation. I'm responsible, patient, and big on safety and communication. My availability is Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 12-6, and I'm open to recurring or Occasional positions or speaking about different times. Please feel free to reach out if you're looking for a sitter and have any questions. Thank you 😊!
Mariana $20 per hour for 1 child
I am college student here at Fisher College looking to help out on my free time. I was a preschool teacher for 1-3 year olds during the summer and I loved working and teaching them. I also have a passion for animals and my whole life I have lived and grown up with dogs and cats. I have a dog named Maia and a cat named Beatrice so any help needed with pets are my expertise. I am very passionate about what I do and want to always provide the best support and help for any client or parents (pet parents too!).
Kim
Booked by 1 repeat family
$35 per hour for 1 childBooked by 1 family in Essex, MA
With over 30 years of hands-on childcare experience and two grown children of my own (ages 26 and 22), I bring both professional and personal insight into caring for children of all ages. I am CPR and First Aid Certified (including infant and child CPR), ServSafe Manager Certified, and hold a ServSafe Allergen certicate. I am a dependable and nurturing caregiver who values structure, creativity, and patience. I have a clean, safe driving record and am fully capable of handling transportation needs, meal prep, light housekeeping, and homework help. I’d love to bring my warmth and experience to support your family’s needs in a part-time nanny role.
Live near a college or university? View babysitters by college
How much does a last-minute babysitter cost in Essex, MA?
- Average hourly rate for 1 child: $25.07
- Average hourly rate for 2 children: $30.40
- Typical job length: 4.1 hours
- Most requested times: Afternoon
As of October 2026
Recent babysitter activity in Essex, MA
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.
115 sitters background checked in Essex, MA
4.9 average star rating from total of 380 reviews in Essex, MA
"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
"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
Find a last-minute babysitter in Essex
Submit a request to hear from available sitters.
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Find a last-minute babysitter in Essex
Submit a request to hear from available sitters.
We use email to send essential communication regarding your account.
To sign up with Facebook, we need permission to use your email address.
Sharing your friends list is optional, and allows us to connect you with sitters they book and recommend. Nothing will be shared or posted.
Why Essex 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 Essex families
See which babysitters have been hired by parents at your child's school, preschool, or neighborhood in Essex.
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 Essex
How do I find a last-minute babysitter in Essex?
Sign up on UrbanSitter, enter your zip code, and submit a request with your timing and care needs. Babysitters near Essex 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 Essex?
As of October 2026, the average babysitting rate in Essex is $25.07 per hour for one child. Rates vary by experience, number of children, and time of day. See babysitting rates in Essex.
Are babysitters on UrbanSitter background checked?
Yes. Every babysitter on UrbanSitter completes an annual background check. You can also read reviews from Essex families and see shared connections before you book. See what's included in the background check.
Can I find a same-day babysitter in Essex?
Same-day requests are common on UrbanSitter. Submit a request with your timing and care needs, and available sitters in Essex 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 Essex can respond, and you can review profiles before choosing.
Resources
Tips for finding last-minute child care
Ideas and strategies for when your plans change and you need a sitter.
How much does a babysitter cost?
See average babysitting rates by city and across the country.
Free printable emergency contacts card
A quick printable card to leave with your sitter in case something unexpected comes up.
