1. House sitter Cost
  2. USA
  3. California

How much does a house sitter cost in California?

Image of a house surrounded by lush green trees and a large yard
Hiring a house sitter for the first time can provide peace of mind and security while you're away. However, it's important to understand the costs associated with this service. In this blog article, we'll break down the expenses involved in hiring a house sitter, helping you make an informed decision and ensure a worry-free experience. Hire a house sitter to look after things while you're away, so you can sit back and relax! To help get you started, we have created a guide to how much you can expect to pay house sitters in your area.
So how much does a house sitter cost? From our research, on average they charge $20.00 an hour in California.

House sitter rates in California

Lowest costAverage costHighest cost
Hour$20.00$20.00$30.00
* Rate information as of June 24, 2025
Mary M
Mary M
Hello, I'm Mary, and I'm a reliable house sitter here in Long Beach, California. I have experience in caring for a home through a past job I had with IHSS for about a year. I’ve also been involved in different types of volunteer work where I am helping others practically (which has involved caring for pets, plants, etc.) I will be happy to take care of trash & recycling, collecting mail, keeping a tidy space, caring for plants, and such. I also understand the intimacy and trust that is involved in having a stranger look after your home, but I pride myself in being an honest & a hard worker. I am in the Long Beach area, but I do not mind traveling 20-30 minutes if I am able. It is easier to have day shifts during the week if possible. Let me know about any questions.
20.00/hour
Sonia B
Sonia B
Hello there! My name is Sonia, and I'm a dedicated house sitter located right here in Petaluma, California. I take pride in offering reliable services to ensure your home is well looked after while you're away. One of my primary responsibilities is mail collection, making sure your letters and packages are securely stored until your return. Additionally, I provide attentive plant care, ensuring your green friends stay healthy and hydrated in your absence. Of course, managing your trash and recycling is also part of my routine, keeping everything tidy and organized. I charge $20 per hour for my services, which are tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you're on a short trip or an extended vacation, you can relax knowing your home is in good hands with me. If you're interested in having a trustworthy and caring house sitter, don't hesitate to reach out. I’d love to hear from you and discuss how I can help make your time away worry-free! Please message me if you are interested.
20.00/hour
Amanda L
Amanda L
Hello! I'm Amanda, your reliable house sitter in beautiful Valley Springs, California. I understand how important it is to keep your home safe and your pets happy while you're away. I specialize in pet feeding, ensuring your furry friends receive all the love and care they need. Whether it's dogs, cats, or any other pets, I'm here to help. In addition to pet care, I offer services like mail collection, so you won't have to worry about important letters piling up. I can also take care of your plants, ensuring they stay healthy and vibrant during your absence. I know how crucial it is to keep your home tidy, which is why I include trash and recycling services. You can trust me to keep everything in order. I charge $30 per hour for my services, and I'm passionate about creating an stress-free experience for both you and your pets. If you're interested or have any questions, please feel free to message me. I'm here to help
30.00/hour

Daily Rates and Services

When determining the cost of hiring a house sitter, daily rates play a significant role. House sitters typically charge based on the number of days they'll be caring for your home. Rates can vary depending on factors such as location, duration, and the level of responsibility involved. It's important to discuss expectations and clarify the services included, such as pet care, garden maintenance, mail collection, and home security, as additional services may incur extra charges.

Additional Expenses

While the daily rates form the foundation of house-sitting costs, there may be additional expenses to consider. These could include transportation costs if the sitter needs to commute to your home, expenses for purchasing pet food or supplies, and reimbursement for other agreed-upon expenses. It's essential to communicate openly with potential house sitters about any additional costs to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a fair agreement for both parties.

Insurance and Bonding

Ensuring the safety of your home and belongings is a top priority when hiring a house sitter. Many professional house sitters carry liability insurance and bonding to protect against any potential damage or theft that may occur while they're caring for your property. Although this may increase the overall cost, it provides you with valuable peace of mind. Don't hesitate to ask potential house sitters about their insurance coverage and bonding arrangements to guarantee adequate protection.

Background Checks and References

Before entrusting someone with your home, it's crucial to conduct thorough background checks and request references. Some house sitters may charge a fee to cover the costs associated with these checks. While this may slightly increase your expenses, it's a worthwhile investment in ensuring the safety and security of your property. Take the time to verify a sitter's credentials, review testimonials, and contact previous clients to gain a comprehensive understanding of their reliability and professionalism.

Agency Fees and Online Platforms

If you prefer to hire a house sitter through an agency or online platform, you may encounter additional fees. These organizations often facilitate the matching process, handle payments, and provide support throughout the house-sitting arrangement. While these fees add to the overall cost, they can offer convenience, reliability, and access to a pool of pre-screened sitters. Evaluate the benefits of using such services against the associated fees to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

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Hiring a house sitter is an investment in the security and well-being of your home. By understanding the costs involved, you can make an informed decision and find a reliable professional who meets your requirements. Remember to discuss rates, services, additional expenses, insurance, and conduct thorough background checks to ensure a successful and worry-free house-sitting experience.