Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Non equity component of allowance for funds used during construction	$ 4,231	$ 3,332	$ 3,578

Non equity component of allowance for funds used during construction

No definition available.

Name:	wtrg_NonEquityComponentOfAllowanceForFundsUsedDuringConstruction
Namespace Prefix:	wtrg_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant