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	$ 144,827	$ 146,024	$ 148,498
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(7,118)	3,808	482
Pension liability adjustment, net of income tax provision (benefit) of $913, $(764) and $(114), respectively	1,785	(1,420)	(704)
Change in fair value of derivative instrument classified as cash flow hedge, net of income tax provision of $1,085, $703 and $337, respectively	6,146	3,985	1,820
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax	813	6,373	1,598
Total comprehensive income	145,640	152,397	150,096
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	277	211	198
Comprehensive income attributable to The GEO Group, Inc.	$ 145,917	$ 152,608	$ 150,294