| Document and Entity Information | May 29, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | PROVIDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001178970 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 29, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-31566 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 42-1547151 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 239 Washington Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Jersey City |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NJ |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 07302 |
| City Area Code | 732 |
| Local Phone Number | 590-9200 |
| Written Communications | true |
| 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 | PFS |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
