Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Net Income (Loss) for Purposes of Determining Basic and Diluted EPS) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Net income attributed to Vector Group Ltd.	$ 36,008	$ 12,002	$ 90,268	$ 37,031
Income attributable to 7.5% Variable Interest Senior Convertible Notes	0	0	(1,246)	0
Income attributed to participating securities	(2,023)	(1,722)	(6,052)	(5,186)
Income attributed to participating securities	(2,023)	(1,722)	(6,052)	(5,186)
Net income applicable to common shares attributed to Vector Group Ltd.	33,985	10,280	84,216	31,845
Net income applicable to common shares attributed to Vector Group Ltd.	$ 33,985	$ 10,280	$ 82,970	$ 31,845