Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2023	Mar. 31, 2022
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 17,663	$ 17,491
Other comprehensive income
Change in unrealized gain on cash flow hedge	(2,014)	0
Total comprehensive income	15,649	17,491
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,597)	(4,126)
Total comprehensive income attributable to Saul Centers, Inc.	12,052	13,365
Preferred stock dividends	(2,798)	(2,798)
Total comprehensive income available to common stockholders	$ 9,254	$ 10,567