What is the going rate for a babysitter job per child?

different States vary, I live in California. The rate for babysitters in California currently ranges from about $10 to $25 an hour depending on the babysitter's experience and if they are good with kids or not, and sometimes even age. For example, if you hire a high school student, of course it'll be cheaper then lets say a college or post college sitter. Ranking the professional nannies at the highest rates. Most parents would rather hire someone more responsible and will be able to deal with emergencies. Professional Nannies usually demand a lot of hours and charge a lot more, but you'd feel more safe leaving your kids/infants with them. For responsible sitters at a lower rate, college students are ideal ($12-$18 /hr). Nothing's wrong with hiring a high school student as a sitter, but as a parent, I would be more worried leaving my kids.