Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 12,480	$ 11,508	$ 45,678	$ 22,668
Other comprehensive income
Change in unrealized loss on cash flow hedge	374	(12)	(273)	2,252
Total comprehensive income	12,854	11,496	45,405	24,920
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2,470)	(2,105)	(9,161)	(2,264)
Total comprehensive income attributable to Saul Centers, Inc.	10,384	9,391	36,244	22,656
Preferred stock redemption	0	0	0	(5,228)
Preferred stock dividends	(3,206)	(3,206)	(9,619)	(10,777)
Total comprehensive income attributable to common stockholders	$ 7,178	$ 6,185	$ 26,625	$ 6,651