Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (1,472)	$ (1,381)	$ (1,414)	$ (1,119)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Net unrealized holding gains on investments arising during the period, net of taxes of $1, $0, $1 and $0	1	2		1
Net change in unrealized holding gains on investments, net of taxes of $1, $0, $1 and $0	1	2		1
Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes	1	2		1
Comprehensive loss	(1,471)	(1,379)	(1,414)	(1,118)
Comprensive income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest	49	95	(376)	(223)
Comprehensive loss attributable to HomeFed Corporation common shareholders	$ (1,422)	$ (1,284)	$ (1,790)	$ (1,341)