Last updated 20 October 2026 · By the PetCloud team · Based on prices listed by sitters on PetCloud
On PetCloud, a pet sitter staying overnight in your home typically costs $45 per night in Australia, with prices from $45 to $51. Each sitter sets their own price. Figures are based on 87 listed prices across Australia's capital cities, checked 20 October 2026.
- House sitting is usually a flat nightly rate, so it is good value if you have several pets.
- It suits pets who are anxious away from home, cats, and homes with several animals.
- Extras such as walks during the stay or vet trips are priced separately on the sitter's profile.
With house sitting, the sitter stays overnight in your home, so your pets keep their own routine and your home is not left empty. Here is what sitters on PetCloud charge per night in each capital city.
House sitting cost by city
Typical prices per night for house sitting in each capital city, from prices listed by sitters on PetCloud.
| City | Typical price | Price range | Sitters listed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $50 | $45-$50 | 420 |
| Melbourne | $50 | $45-$62 | 455 |
| Brisbane | $50 | $45-$50 | 544 |
| Perth | $45 | $45-$53 | 147 |
| Adelaide | $45 | $45 | 88 |
| Canberra | $45 | $45 | 41 |
| Hobart | Not enough listed prices yet. Use the national range. | 13 | |
| Darwin | Not enough listed prices yet. Use the national range. | 9 | |
Sydney: House sitting in Sydney typically costs $50 per night, with prices of $45-$50, based on 19 sitters' listed prices.
Melbourne: House sitting in Melbourne typically costs $50 per night, with prices of $45-$62, based on 17 sitters' listed prices.
Brisbane: House sitting in Brisbane typically costs $50 per night, with prices of $45-$50, based on 14 sitters' listed prices.
Perth: House sitting in Perth typically costs $45 per night, with prices of $45-$53, based on 15 sitters' listed prices.
Adelaide: House sitting in Adelaide typically costs $45 per night, with prices of $45, based on 11 sitters' listed prices.
Canberra: House sitting in Canberra typically costs $45 per night, with prices of $45, based on 6 sitters' listed prices.
Prices on this page start from $45. Cities show a range only when at least 5 sitters list a price for this service.
What affects the cost of house sitting?
Number of pets
Most sitters charge per pet, and many offer a lower price for a second pet from the same home. Ask before you book.
Age, size and special needs
Puppies, senior pets, large or reactive dogs and pets on medication take more time and skill. Some sitters add a special needs surcharge, which is listed on their profile.
Peak season
Christmas, Easter and school holidays are the busiest times of year. Some sitters charge more, and good sitters book out early, so book weeks ahead for peak dates.
Extras
Sitters list add-ons separately, such as walks during a stay, pick up and drop off, trips to the vet, or backyard poo patrol.
How to keep the cost down
- Book early for Christmas and school holidays, before the sitters you like are booked out.
- Ask about a lower rate for a second pet, a long stay or regular repeat bookings. Many sitters offer one.
- Do a meet and greet before you book, so the first booking runs smoothly and you find a sitter you will keep.
- Compare a few sitters' reviews and services, not only the price. A sitter who is a good match saves you a lot of worry.
Please value your sitter's time. A fair price lets pet sitters cover their costs, lodge tax and put money into superannuation, which keeps good sitters in the work.
What to look for in a sitter
Price is only part of the decision. Check these four things before you book:
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between house sitting and boarding?
With house sitting, the sitter stays in your home. With boarding, your pet stays in the sitter's home. House sitting keeps your pet's routine and surroundings the same; boarding gives your pet company in a family home while you are away.
Is house sitting or home visits better for my pet?
Home visits are short, 10-15 minute visits once or twice a day to feed, water or medicate a pet. They suit independent pets such as many cats. If your pet needs company overnight, more exercise or close supervision, house sitting is the better choice.
Who sets the prices on PetCloud?
Each pet sitter on PetCloud is an independent contractor who sets their own prices. That is why prices vary between sitters in the same suburb. Their price covers more than time with your pet: travel, fuel, car costs, clean-up, tax, superannuation and the holiday and sick pay they need to fund themselves.
Are there any extra fees on top of the sitter's price?
The prices in this guide are what sitters list on their profiles. PetCloud adds a booking fee of 10% of the booking, capped at $40. It helps fund the advertising that brings sitters work, and it keeps your payment held securely until after your 24-hour quality check window at the end of the booking.
Related price guides
Pet sitting prices in Australia Price guide
Dog boarding cost Price guide
Cat sitting and home visits cost Price guide
Dog walking cost
Find a sitter who suits your pet and your budget
Compare sitters' prices, reviews and services, then book a meet and greet.
Find a house sitter near you Post a JobHow we worked out these prices
We read the prices listed on sitter profiles on PetCloud for up to 50 of the top-ranked sitters in each capital city (every sitter, where a city has fewer than 50), on 20 October 2026. "Typical price" is the median listed price, and prices on this page start from $45. Prices are set by each sitter and change over time, so check the sitter's profile for their current price. PetCloud's booking fee is not included.
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