Investment in Unconsolidated Entities (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Equity and cost method investments
Investments in unconsolidated entities	$ 312,046	$ 213,049	$ 312,046	$ 213,049	$ 179,921
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities	35,605	25,392	62,694	48,781
Equity method investments, combined income statements
Revenues	1,550,200	1,426,077	3,048,460	2,863,085
Operating expenses	1,100,477	1,019,669	2,172,169	2,096,420
Operating income	449,723	406,408	876,291	766,665
Other income, net	713	989	1,136	1,639
Net income	450,436	407,397	877,427	768,304
Los Angeles SMSA Limited Partnership
Equity and cost method investments
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities	$ 19,800	$ 19,200	$ 40,400	$ 36,300
Ownership interest in equity method investment	5.50%	5.50%	5.50%	5.50%