Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2017
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 44,888	$ 43,271	$ 151,999	$ 132,174
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments		(39)		(144)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	(707)	991	(871)	2,378
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(707)	952	(871)	2,234
Comprehensive income (loss)	44,181	44,223	151,128	134,408
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	12,223	24,549	50,367	79,109
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Moelis & Company	$ 31,958	$ 19,674	$ 100,761	$ 55,299