Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2022	Sep. 30, 2021	Sep. 30, 2022	Sep. 30, 2021
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 15,513	$ 16,885	$ 50,001	$ 45,799
Other comprehensive income
Change in unrealized gain on cash flow hedge	4,256	0	4,256	0
Total comprehensive income	19,769	16,885	54,257	45,799
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(4,756)	(3,747)	(12,863)	(9,653)
Total comprehensive income attributable to Saul Centers, Inc.	15,013	13,138	41,394	36,146
Preferred stock dividends	(2,798)	(2,798)	(8,395)	(8,395)
Total comprehensive income available to common stockholders	$ 12,215	$ 10,340	$ 32,999	$ 27,751