Investments in Unconsolidated Entities (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Equity and cost method investments
Investments in unconsolidated entities	$ 162,012		$ 162,012		$ 138,096
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities	24,816	21,929	71,584	65,289
Equity method investments, combined income statements
Revenues	1,446,311	1,386,808	4,298,176	4,066,382
Operating expenses	1,063,285	1,033,792	3,150,168	3,099,555
Operating income	383,026	353,016	1,148,008	966,827
Other income (expense), net	(51)	853	2,185	3,666
Net income	382,975	353,869	1,150,193	970,493
Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership
Equity and cost method investments
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities	$ 18,300	$ 16,600	$ 54,600	$ 43,700
Ownership interest in equity method investment	5.50%	5.50%	5.50%	5.50%