Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 135,692	$ 208,004	$ 126,524
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments			(465)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	1,452	(453)	2,292
Other comprehensive income (loss)	1,452	(453)	1,827
Comprehensive income (loss)	137,144	207,551	128,351
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	30,908	67,249	98,056
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Moelis & Company	$ 106,236	$ 140,302	$ 30,295