| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 04, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | ENCORE CAPITAL GROUP INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001084961 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 4, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State 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 |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | ECPG |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
