CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 5,155	$ 175,289	$ 10,864	$ 186,393
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, net	(1,613)	(2,772)	8,523	(8,331)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(1,613)	(2,772)	8,523	(8,331)
Comprehensive income	3,542	172,517	19,387	178,062
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(460)	(748)	(2,057)	(3,730)
Comprehensive income attributable to Lexington Realty Trust shareholders	$ 3,082	$ 171,769	$ 17,330	$ 174,332