| Document and Entity Information Document | Dec. 21, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001084961 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 21, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | ENCORE CAPITAL GROUP, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-26489 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 48-1090909 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 350 Camino de la Reina |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 100 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Diego |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92108 |
| City Area Code | 877 |
| Local Phone Number | 445-4581 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value Per Share |
| Trading Symbol | ECPG |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
