Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2023	Dec. 31, 2022	Dec. 31, 2021
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 69,026	$ 65,392	$ 61,649
Other comprehensive income
Change in unrealized gain on cash flow hedge	(1,220)	3,962	0
Total comprehensive income	67,806	69,354	61,649
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(15,955)	(16,308)	(13,260)
Total comprehensive income attributable to Saul Centers, Inc.	51,851	53,046	48,389
Preferred stock dividends	(11,194)	(11,194)	(11,194)
Total comprehensive income available to common stockholders	$ 40,657	$ 41,852	$ 37,195