Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (96,581)	$ 60,249	$ 35,053
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(28,841)	54,338	(24,977)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges	235	923	(275)
Pension benefit obligation adjustment	(2,779)	(3,588)	3,468
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(25,827)	58,849	(28,720)
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(122,408)	119,098	6,333
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax	2,669	2,951	3,283
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.	$ (125,077)	$ 116,147	$ 3,050