| Document and Entity Information | Mar. 26, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001060391 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 26, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Republic Services, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-14267 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 65-0716904 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 18500 North Allied Way |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Phoenix |
| Entity Address, State or Province | AZ |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 85054 |
| City Area Code | (480) |
| Local Phone Number | 627-2700 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | RSG |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
