This pine species is endemic to Mexico, in the states of: Durango; northern Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Zacatecas; central San Luis Potosí; and southern Querétaro and Hidalgo.

Its distribution extends over a distance of more than 750 kilometres (470 mi) from north to south.

The majority of its range it is found at altitudes between 1,100–2,600 metres (3,600–8,500 ft) in elevation, within arid areas.

Pinus pinceana forms a small tree or large shrub.

It is an IUCN Red List Near threatened species, endangered by habitat loss.