Commitments And Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Total streaming content obligations	$ 4,973,027	$ 4,822,994

Unrecorded and Recorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Amount

No definition available.

Name:	nflx_UnrecordedAndRecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationAmount
Namespace Prefix:	nflx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant