Business Description, Organization and Basis of Presentation (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Ownership structure of AllianceBernstein expressed as a percentage of general and limited partnership interests [Abstract]
Limited partners or members ownership interest in Company (in hundredths)	100.00%
Threshold Amount for Including Institutions in Private Clients	$ 25
AXA and its subsidiaries ownership interest in Holding company (in hundredths)	1.50%
General Partner: units outstanding (in shares)	100,000	100,000
General partnership interest (in hundredths)	1.00%
AXA and its subsidiaries economic interest in Company (in hundredths)	63.60%
AXA and Its Subsidiaries [Member]
Ownership structure of AllianceBernstein expressed as a percentage of general and limited partnership interests [Abstract]
Limited partners or members ownership interest in Company (in hundredths)	63.10%
Holding [Member]
Ownership structure of AllianceBernstein expressed as a percentage of general and limited partnership interests [Abstract]
Limited partners or members ownership interest in Company (in hundredths)	35.50%
Unaffiliated Holders [Member]
Ownership structure of AllianceBernstein expressed as a percentage of general and limited partnership interests [Abstract]
Limited partners or members ownership interest in Company (in hundredths)	1.40%