The Tibetan rosefinch is found in northeastern Tibet, in the Buckhan Boda Shan, Amne Machin and Kunlun mountains in Qinghai.

These birds live among rocky steppes and alpine pastures, in areas with sparse vegetation.

Because of its desolate habitat, the Tibetan rosefinch's range is shared with few other birds, aside from Brandt's mountain finch.

They live mostly on the ground, traveling quickly hopping in search of food.

They feed mainly on seeds, as well as fragments of flowers including the lousewort (Pedicularis).