Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 12,711	$ 3,398
Other comprehensive income
Change in unrealized loss on cash flow hedge	(227)	501
Total comprehensive income	12,484	3,899
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2,366)	1,458
Total comprehensive income attributable to Saul Centers, Inc.	10,118	5,357
Preferred stock redemption	0	(5,228)
Preferred stock dividends	(3,206)	(4,364)
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to common stockholders	$ 6,912	$ (4,235)