Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 30, 2012
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ (19,074)	$ 23,773
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized net gains (losses) on investment securities, net of tax	132	(5)
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax	(158)	142
Unrealized net gains on interest rate derivative contracts, net of tax	425	5,988
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	399	6,125
Comprehensive income (loss)	(18,675)	29,898
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(290)	(1,025)
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Forest City Enterprises, Inc.	$ (18,965)	$ 28,873