It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but habitat loss, introduced predatory fish, and increasing agriculture in the area pose threats to its survival.

[2] The Tarhumara salamander is endemic to Mexico where it occurs in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range at elevations of 1,675 to 3,100 metres (5,495 to 10,171 ft) above sea level.

It can also be found in corners of Arizona, in the Huachuca Mountains in the Coronado National Forest, where it is threatened by a border barrier.

[3] It is an adaptable species and generally occurs in pine and pine-oak forest with small, slow moving streams, or near springs and ponds.

It has a wide distribution and presumed large population, and does not appear to be declining fast enough to qualify to be listed in a more threatened category.