Sagebrush voles commonly forage under the canopy of shrubs and under grass cover. They also climb in shrubs to feed. May steal food from piles accumulated by other rodents. Runway systems may be used, but usually are inconspicuous. During winter, these voles are active at the ground surface under the cover of snow.
Urine output is lower than in other microtines.
Probably obtains water from food. Populations reach high levels after a combination of mild winter temperatures, higher than average summer precipitation, and early autumn rains. At low densities, sagebrush voles occur in isolated colonies. Mainly nocturnal, but active at any time of day. Daytime activity is highest in early morning and late afternoon.