Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 53,130	$ 49,524	$ 107,111	$ 88,903
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments		20		(105)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	(1,843)	738	(164)	1,387
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(1,843)	758	(164)	1,282
Comprehensive income (loss)	51,287	50,282	106,947	90,185
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	16,878	30,181	38,144	54,560
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Moelis & Company	$ 34,409	$ 20,101	$ 68,803	$ 35,625