Jumping mice are confined to wet areas in a variety of coniferous forest, riparian, and grassland habitats. Locally common to abundant in thick, herbaceous vegetation near water. Feeds on grass and forb seeds, although insects and the stems and leaves of herbaceous plants are eaten seasonally. Seeds are thought to be an important food for fat deposition prior to hibernation.
Moist soil is required for burrow construction.
Hibernates in winter in nests of grass, leaves, and other vegetation, constructed underground, or beneath logs or brush piles. Grassy nests are placed in depressions in the ground, beneath dense vegetation, slash, or in burrows. Hibernates from about September to May, the exact dates depending upon snowfall and melt. Nesting is solitary. Probably 2 litters per yr.