How much should I pay for a babysitter in {{city}}, {{state}}?

The national typical hourly rate of babysitters in 2024 is 21.50 per hour. Rates can vary based on your babysitter's experience, certifications, and travel expenses. When calculating the cost of child care, you should also account for the number of children they'll care for and additional responsibilities like household tasks or homework help. Learn more about how to set competitive babysitting rates for attracting the best babysitters.

How do I find a babysitter for my kids in {{city}}, {{state}}?

The best way to find babysitters near you is to post a job detailing your needs on Sittercity, which will be shared with our community of available babysitters. We'll notify you when sitters apply to your job, and from there you can proceed with interviews, background checks, and reference checks so you can find the perfect fit for your family.

What kind of babysitters can I find in {{city}}, {{state}}?

You can find experienced and passionate babysitters near you to provide the best care for your child, either in-home or virtually. Babysitters can help families with managing strict schedules, transportation to activities, homework help, last-minute coverage, date nights, and more. Whatever occasion you're looking to find a babysitter for, including full-time, part-time, or last-minute care, you can count on Sittercity for finding passionate and experienced babysitters.

How do families hire trustworthy babysitters in {{city}}, {{state}}?

Families find trustworthy babysitters on Sittercity who are passionate about providing safe and enriching care for their children. Many babysitters report they are First Aid and CPR certified to provide the best care for your family. Babysitters have the option to complete regular background checks, and you can easily request a recent background check if they don’t have one or it is not recent. Families can also request to see professional references! Our dedicated team also champions safety across our platform every day. Babysitters go through an identity verification process with Berbix when registering an account. Some additional safety measures include Family Watchdog screening, sitter reviews, and secure messaging.

Find experienced babysitters in Los Osos, CA

Q: What’s the difference between a babysitter and a nanny?

Babysitters and nannies share the same primary responsibility of providing safe and enriching care for your child, but there are a few differences between them. Babysitters are typically hired for occasional work on an irregular schedule. If you’re looking for last-minute care for date night, or the occasional few hours after school, a babysitter is a great option. Nannies, on the other hand, are more commonly associated with regular work, whether full or part-time, offering daily or consistent care to a particular family. There are also several different types of nannies, including au pairs, house managers, doulas, live-in, and overnight nannies. Identifying the type and frequency of child care you’ll need is the best way to decide whether a babysitter or nanny is a better fit for your family.

Q: How do babysitters interact with my child?

Babysitters on Sittercity love providing enriching experiences for your children, and sharing their passions with them. They're happy to participate in outdoor activities like sports, or indoor activities like music, baking, tutoring help, and art. Wherever your child's interests lie, babysitters on Sittercity are prepared to engage them in a nurturing way.

Last-minute, school and tutoring, date nights—find the right babysitters for you.

Get started

I need a babysitter

On a regular schedule On occasion

26 active babysitters near you

Average rate is $25.02/hr

140,000 5-star parent reviews

Trusted by

Find your babysitter in Los Osos, CA

Laura L.

10 years paid experience
10 miles

$15–20/hr

Hello!!! I'm Laura.. I have 12+ years experience being a Nanny. I'm looking for a part-time position. My 33/34 clearances are updated. I have excellent experience and references. I taught preschool for 10 years and elementary school for 5 years. I Have a BS in Child Development (cum laude) and a K-6th teaching credential. I am Flexible w/ my schedule as needed. I adore children and I am very creative , artistic, loyal, reliable and FUN!!. I would love to work with a baby or young children. (Up to age 9 )I speak Spanish as well. CPR certified w/car. Hope to meet you soon. Thanks . Laura L.

$15–20/hr

Recent review:

5.0

Alexandra B.

Laura cared for our daughter from ages 1–2, and we were so grateful to have her for that year. Her background as a teacher really came through in the thoughtful, engaging care she provided. She was attentive, patient, and genuinely invested in her development and well-being. We always felt she was in wonderful hands and would highly recommend Laura to any family.

View Profile

Sophie Y.

5 years paid experience
11 miles

$25–28/hr

Hi everyone! My name is Sophie 😊 I’m a preschool teacher in San Luis Obispo looking to pick up some extra babysitting! I have lots of experience working with young children and especially love working with ages 2.5–5 years old. I’me passionate about creating a fun, safe, and nurturing environment, and I’m happy to support your family however needed. I’m available all day Saturdays and Sundays and the occasional weekday after 6. If you’re in the SLO area and looking for help with date nights, weekends, feel free to message me—I’d love to connect! 🩵

$25–28/hr

View Profile

Ella K.

9 years paid experience
8 miles

$25–30/hr

I am a 21 yo college student studying mathematics at Cal Poly, SLO! I have been nannying kids of all ages and many neurotypes for years. I love to provide a compassionate environment and adapt to your child's needs. I am prepared to clean, help with homework (especially math!), drive, and ensure the kids are comfortable, enjoying themselves, and set up for success.

$25–30/hr

View Profile

Chloe G.

3 years paid experience
10 miles

$20–26/hr

I’m a recent college grad who has just moved back to the SLO area. I have very flexible availability, most weekdays and weekends are free! I’ve been babysitting for several years and have also been a live in camp counselor for children aged 14 and up. I love getting creative with coming up with fun activities and have experience with tutoring as needed for school aged children. I am also comfortable to help with meal prepping and general cleaning while babysitting. For parents' peace of mind I have completed the Red Cross's first aid and CPR courses for infants through adults.

$20–26/hr

View Profile

Ellia S.

2 years paid experience
8 miles

$20–30/hr

HI! I am a second year public health student at Cal Poly. I am dependable, patient, and prioritize creating a fun and safe space for kids. I have a lot of experience working with kids through my years of soccer coaching and leading a soccer camp. This allowed me to learn how to keep the kids engaged and focused. I also work as a lifeguard during my summers so I have current Red Cross CPR and First Aid certifications.

$20–30/hr

View Profile

Savannah R.

1 year paid experience
10 miles

$26–28/hr

I am currently a Elementary Education Major and I have always known since I was young that I want work with children. I have lots of young family members like nieces, nephews and cousins. I've babysat all of them multiple time since they were infants. I also have one babysitting experience outside of family. I am both CPR and First Aid certifie. I love creating fun activities to do and I am also good at helping with school work. I am more than happy to help out with any house chores, errands and pet care as well.

$26–28/hr

View Profile

Lacey D.

5 years paid experience
8 miles

$20–30/hr

Hello! I've been a nanny for 3 years now and I'm looking for a new full time position. I have been babysitting kids since I was one myself and genuinely love spending time with children. My silly humor and creative mind allow me to connect with kids in amazing ways. I have experience with all ages but I'm currently looking to work with infants/toddlers.

$20–30/hr

View Profile

Sophia M.

3 years paid experience
10 miles

$20–35/hr

Hi! My name is Sophie and I am a 26 year old wife and step mom to a 12 year old girl. I have been working at a preschool for the last 3 years, but have worked with kids all my life. I have 5 brothers (2 with special needs) and 2 sisters. Safe to say I have been through it all! I am CPR + First Aide certified. I am a loving and energetic person who loves spending time with kids! I live in San Luis Obispo, and will be beginning my schooling come January 2027. I am looking to find a family I can help care for while also attending school. Feel free to message me or set up a phone call!

$20–35/hr

View Profile

Lily B.

1 year paid experience
< 1 mile

$22–50/hr

Hi, I’m Lily. I currently take care of a toddler for at least two days a week. I have been watching him for about 4 months. His Mom is pregnant so I will be helping her a little bit with the baby. I am a cheer coach at my old high school and am certified in CPR. I love little kids, and I love to play and sing and dance! 💃🏼 🪩

$22–50/hr

View Profile

Isabel N.

2 years paid experience
9 miles

$17–24/hr

Hi! My name is Isabel, and I’m a responsible, caring, and dependable babysitter who genuinely enjoys spending time with children. I have experience caring for children of different ages and am comfortable helping with playtime, meals, homework, bedtime routines, and keeping children entertained in a safe and positive environment. I’m CPR and AED certified for children, and I take safety and responsibility very seriously. I’m also bilingual in English and Spanish, which can be helpful for families who speak either language. I’m patient, organized, and attentive, and I always want children to feel comfortable and cared for while their parents are away. I’d love the opportunity to get to know your family and become someone you can trust!