How much does pet care cost in Santa Cruz, CA?
$19.74/hour
As of June 2025, the average starting cost of pet care in Santa Cruz, CA is $19.74 per hour. The weekly rate for pet care in Santa Cruz, CA is $790 for working a 40-hour week. And the monthly cost is approximately $2,566 for 130 hours of work.
Data is based on rates reported by service providers listed on Care.com. Last updated in June 2025.
The cost of hiring pet care in Santa Cruz, CA is approximately 3% higher than California average starting rate of $19.13 per hour and 27% higher than the national average of $15.54.
Location | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz, CA | $19.74/hr | $26.72/hr |
California | $19.13/hr | $26.67/hr |
United States | $15.54/hr | $23.67/hr |
$19.74
$26.72
Santa Cruz, CA
$19.13
$26.67
California
$15.54
$23.67
US
Starting rate (avg)
Max rate (avg)
In some cases, nearby cities may offer more affordable pet care services. When evaluating pet care pay rates in Santa Cruz, CA and its surrounding areas, it is essential to follow the minimum wage regulations and understand the proper way to pay legally. There are multiple benefits of paying legally that should be considered, such as tax deductions and fostering a professional employment relationship.
City | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Saratoga, CA | $17.69/hr | $32.23/hr |
| Ben Lomond, CA | $18.22/hr | $27.78/hr |
| Aptos, CA | $18.50/hr | $29.79/hr |
| Watsonville, CA | $18.67/hr | $27.93/hr |
| Boulder Creek, CA | $18.75/hr | $23.63/hr |
You may pay more per hour for pet care near Santa Cruz, CA and several factors can contribute to driving up the average rates. They include: higher cost of living, increased demand for pet care services, a more competitive job market, and specific details surrounding your care needs (i.e. tasks, timeframe, frequency). As a result, it's important to consider these local factors when comparing pet care rates and hiring pet care near Santa Cruz, CA.
City | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Redwood City, CA | $22.51/hr | $31.14/hr |
| Los Gatos, CA | $21.98/hr | $30.54/hr |
| Los Altos, CA | $21.87/hr | $30.40/hr |
| Mountain View, CA | $21.77/hr | $30.37/hr |
| Palo Alto, CA | $21.63/hr | $30.29/hr |
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