Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) - Parent Company [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ (1,589)	$ (412)	$ 108
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications	(1,500)	(8,306)	(12,335)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax	4,364	7,064	11,785
Net current-period other comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(131)	65	30
Net current-period other comprehensive income attributable to MAA	2,733	(1,177)	(520)
Ending balance	$ 1,144	$ (1,589)	$ (412)