| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 25, 2019 |
| Document and Entity Information [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 25, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | NATIONAL BANK HOLDINGS CORP |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-35654 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 27-0563799 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 7800 East Orchard Road |
| Entity Address, Adress Line Two | Suite 300 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Greenwood Village |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80111 |
| City Area Code | 303 |
| Local Phone Number | 892-8715 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Class A Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | NBHC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001475841 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
