There is no consensus on the proper generic allocation for this species. It was placed in the genus Arborimus by Johnson and George (1991), Musser and Carleton (in Wilson and Reeder, 1993, 2005), Hayes (1996), Adam and Hayes (1998), and Baker et al. (2003); and included in the genus Phenacomys by Carleton and Musser (1984), Repenning and Grady (1988), and Verts and Carraway (1998). Bellinger et al. (2005) noted that recognition of Arborimus as a distinct genus is subject to interpretation of data.

This species is listed as Least Concern as it has a widespread distribution, moderate extent of occurrence of 94,353 km², and lacks significant threats that could result in a rapid population decline.

This species' range extends from the Columbia River south through the Coast Range of Oregon to Humboldt County, California in the United States, and also includes areas on the west slope of the Cascade Range in Lane and Douglas counties, Oregon, eastward to Vida. Its elevational range extends from sea level up to around 1,067 m asl (Verts and Carraway 1995, Manning et al. 2003). The precise eastern and southern boundaries of its range remain poorly documented, particularly in northwestern California, where only a limited number of records exist (Bean et al. 2016).

The total population size is unknown. While historically considered one of the rarest North American voles, it is likely more abundant than previously assumed (Maser et al. 1981). Field studies provide further insights into population density: nine individuals were captured in pitfall traps during October-November over three years in the Cascade Range of Oregon (Manning et al. 2003). Trapping efforts in Oregon reported trap success rates for this species ranging from 0.06 to 0.08 captures per 100 trap nights (Gomez and Anthony 1998, Martin and McComb 2002, Suzuki and Hayes 2003). A targeted trapping effort reported a higher success rate of 0.117 captures per 100 trap nights, suggesting the species may be locally abundant under suitable conditions (Bean et al. 2016).

This species is associated with small, alder-lined streams within conifer forests (Manning et al. 2003). Microhabitats such as small clearings created by fallen timber, which support herbaceous growth, may provide critical resources (Manning et al. 2003). In the southern Cascade Range of western Oregon, occurrences of the species were more closely correlated with basal area and density of red alder (Alnus rubra) and percent cover of California hazel (Corylus cornuta var. californica) than with proximity to water (Manning et al. 2003). The white-footed vole (Arborimus albipes) has also been recorded in early-successional habitats, including recently logged stands (Manning et al. 2003).

This is a nocturnal and terrestrial species with morphological traits suggestive of burrowing behaviour (Maser et al. 1981). Observations of A. albipes nesting in trees suggest it also inhabits semi-arboreal environments (Forsman and Swingle 2006). It breeds throughout the year, typically producing litters of two to four offspring, most commonly three (Maser et al. 1981). The gestation period is approximately 28 days, followed by an extended weaning period of 30–35 days (Maser et al. 1981). Its diet consists of various green herbaceous plants, and finely chewed roots have also been observed in stomach contents (Maser et al. 1981).

Logging occurs in areas inhabited by this species, but its range-wide impacts remain uncertain (T. Bean pers. comm. 2024). Logging may lead to an increase in second-growth alder cover, which the species appears to prefer over conifers (Manning et al. 2003).

The white-footed vole is recognized as a Species of Special Concern by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CNDDB 2024).