Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) - (unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013		Mar. 31, 2012
Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) - (unaudited) [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 291		$ (1,497)
Unrealized gains on investment securities:
Unrealized holding gains arising during period	235		364
Less reclassification adjustment for gains realized in net income (loss)	30	[1]	90	[1]
Unrealized gains on investment securities	205		274
Unrecognized benefit obligation expense:
Less reclassification adjustment for amortization	(94)	[2]	(51)	[2]
Other comprehensive income	299		325
Comprehensive income (loss)	590		(1,172)
Less comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	173		(628)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Royal Bancshares of Pennsylvania, Inc.	$ 417		$ (544)

[1] Amounts are included in net gains on the sale of available for sale investment securities on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in total non-interest income.

[2] Amounts are included in salaries and benefits on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in non-interest expense.