Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Loss - (unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended				6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2012		Jun. 30, 2013		Jun. 30, 2012
Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Loss - (unaudited) [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (1,497)		$ (2,256)		$ (1,206)		$ (3,753)
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:
Unrealized holding losses arising during period	(4,253)		(593)		(4,018)		(229)
Less adjustment for impaired investments	0	[1]	(558)	[1]	0	[1]	(558)	[1]
Less reclassification adjustment for gains realized in net loss	16	[2]	13	[2]	46	[2]	103	[2]
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities, net of tax	(4,269)		(48)		(4,064)		226
Unrecognized benefit obligation expense:
Less reclassification adjustment for amortization	(95)	[3]	(63)	[3]	(189)	[3]	(114)	[3]
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(4,174)		15		(3,875)		340
Comprehensive loss	(5,671)		(2,241)		(5,081)		(3,413)
Less net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(694)		(306)		(521)		(934)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Royal Bancshares of Pennsylvania, Inc.	$ (4,977)		$ (1,935)		$ (4,560)		$ (2,479)

[1] Amounts are included in total other-than-temporary impairment on investment securities on the Consolidated Statements of Operations in total non-interest income.

[2] 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.

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