Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Other Comprehensive Income:
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income for the effective portion of derivative instruments	$ (16,370)	$ (20,113)	$ (27,639)
Limited Partner [Member]
Consolidated net income	107,544	109,040	50,588
Other Comprehensive Income:
Unrealized gain (loss) from the effective portion of derivative instruments	10,684	(8,411)	(14,012)
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income for the effective portion of derivative instruments	16,370	20,113	27,639
Comprehensive income attributable to Mid-America Apartments, L.P.	134,598	120,742	64,215
Parent Company [Member]
Consolidated net income	119,279	109,825	51,231
Other Comprehensive Income:
Unrealized gain (loss) from the effective portion of derivative instruments	10,684	(8,411)	(14,012)
Reclassification adjustment for losses included in net income for the effective portion of derivative instruments	16,370	20,113	27,639
Total Comprehensive Income	146,333	121,527	64,858
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(4,890)	(6,510)	(3,038)
Comprehensive income attributable to MAA	$ 141,443	$ 115,017	$ 61,820