Capitalization (Schedule of Carrying Amount and Fair Value of Bonds) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Carrying amount [Member]
Bonds	$ 82,786	$ 85,600
Fair value [Member]
Bonds	$ 84,821	$ 88,431

Represents the aggregate of the first mortgage bonds reported on the balance sheet at period end measured at fair value by the entity.

No definition available.

Name:	msex_FirstMortgageBondsFairValueDisclosure
Namespace Prefix:	msex_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant