Mid-America Apartments 10-Q 29 Jul 16 2016 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2016
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Trading Symbol	MAA
Entity Registrant Name	MID AMERICA APARTMENT COMMUNITIES INC
Entity Central Index Key	912,595
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		75,534,086
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Limited Partner [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	MID-AMERICA APARTMENTS, L.P.
Entity Central Index Key	1,581,776
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer

MAA Condensed Consolidated Bala

MAA Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - Parent Company [Member] - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Assets:
Land	$ 943,179,000	$ 926,532,000
Buildings and improvements	7,096,432,000	6,939,288,000
Furniture, fixtures and equipment	245,607,000	228,157,000
Development and capital improvements in progress	53,509,000	44,355,000
Real Estate Investment Property, at Cost	8,338,727,000	8,138,332,000
Less accumulated depreciation	(1,628,891,000)	(1,482,368,000)
Real Estate Investment Property, Net	6,709,836,000	6,655,964,000
Undeveloped land	40,514,000	51,779,000
Corporate properties, net	9,390,000	8,812,000
Investments in real estate joint ventures	50,000	1,811,000
Real estate assets, net	6,759,790,000	6,718,366,000
Cash and cash equivalents	26,279,000	37,559,000
Restricted cash	25,131,000	26,082,000
Deferred financing costs, net	4,587,000	5,232,000
Other assets	51,987,000	58,935,000
Goodwill	1,607,000	1,607,000
Total assets	6,869,381,000	6,847,781,000
Liabilities:
Unsecured notes payable	2,246,227,000	2,141,332,000
Secured notes payable	1,243,198,000	1,286,236,000
Accounts payable	7,464,000	5,922,000
Fair market value of interest rate swaps	11,760,000	10,358,000
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	218,658,000	226,237,000
Security deposits	12,386,000	11,623,000
Total liabilities	3,739,693,000	3,681,708,000
Redeemable stock	10,369,000	8,250,000
Shareholders' equity:
Common stock	754,000	753,000
Additional paid-in capital	3,630,094,000	3,627,074,000
Accumulated distributions in excess of net income	(670,954,000)	(634,141,000)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(4,150,000)	(1,589,000)
Total MAA shareholders' equity	2,955,744,000	2,992,097,000
Noncontrolling interest	163,575,000	165,726,000
Total equity	3,119,319,000	3,157,823,000
Total liabilities and equity	$ 6,869,381,000	$ 6,847,781,000
Redeemable stock, shares issued and outstanding	98,142	90,844

MAALP Condensed Consolidated Ba

MAALP Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - Limited Partner [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Assets:
Land	$ 943,179	$ 926,532
Buildings and improvements	7,096,432	6,939,288
Furniture, fixtures and equipment	245,607	228,157
Development and capital improvements in progress	53,509	44,355
Real Estate Investment Property, at Cost	8,338,727	8,138,332
Less accumulated depreciation	(1,628,891)	(1,482,368)
Real Estate Investment Property, Net	6,709,836	6,655,964
Undeveloped land	40,514	51,779
Corporate properties, net	9,390	8,812
Investments in real estate joint ventures	50	1,811
Real estate assets, net	6,759,790	6,718,366
Cash and cash equivalents	26,279	37,559
Restricted cash	25,131	26,082
Deferred financing costs, net	4,587	5,232
Other assets	51,987	58,935
Goodwill	1,607	1,607
Total assets	6,869,381	6,847,781
Liabilities:
Unsecured notes payable	2,246,227	2,141,332
Secured notes payable	1,243,198	1,286,236
Accounts payable	7,464	5,922
Fair market value of interest rate swaps	11,760	10,358
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	218,658	226,237
Security deposits	12,386	11,623
Due to general partner	19	19
Total liabilities	3,739,712	3,681,727
Redeemable units	10,369	8,250
Capital [Abstract]
General Partners' Capital Account	2,960,045	2,993,696
Limited Partners' Capital Account	163,575	165,726
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(4,320)	(1,618)
Total Capital	3,119,300	3,157,804
Total Liabilities and Capital	$ 6,869,381	$ 6,847,781
Redeemable units, units issued and outstanding	98,142	90,844

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Common stock, shares outstanding	75,524,086
General Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding	75,524,086
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding	4,159,003
Parent Company [Member]
Common stock, par value per share	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	75,505,025	75,408,571
Common stock, shares outstanding	75,505,025	75,408,571
Limited Partner [Member]
General Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding	75,505,025	75,408,571
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding	4,162,163	4,162,996

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Parent Company [Member]
Operating revenues:
Rental revenues	$ 249,326	$ 236,165	$ 494,991	$ 471,106
Other property revenues	22,910	22,726	46,261	46,337
Total operating revenues	272,236	258,891	541,252	517,443
Property operating expenses:
Personnel	25,858	25,872	51,055	51,533
Building repairs and maintenance	7,680	7,778	13,779	14,403
Real estate taxes and insurance	34,729	32,805	69,900	66,126
Utilities	22,244	21,596	44,380	43,673
Landscaping	5,673	5,687	10,994	11,132
Other operating	6,771	7,118	13,728	14,638
Depreciation and amortization	75,742	74,396	150,870	147,508
Total property operating expenses	178,697	175,252	354,706	349,013
Acquisition expense	421	1,159	1,134	1,499
Property management expenses	8,310	6,986	17,313	15,478
General and administrative expenses	7,014	6,657	13,596	13,224
Income from continuing operations before non-operating items	77,794	68,837	154,503	138,229
Interest and other non-property (expense) income	62	29	94	(180)
Interest expense	(32,039)	(30,433)	(64,250)	(61,281)
Loss on debt extinguishment	0	(3)	3	(3,379)
Net casualty loss after insurance and other settlement proceeds	1,760	510	813	490
Gain on sale of depreciable real estate assets excluded from discontinued operations	68	105,182	823	135,410
Gain on sale of non-depreciable real estate assets	543	172	2,170	172
Income before income tax expense	48,188	144,294	94,156	209,461
Income tax expense	(457)	(398)	(745)	(907)
Income from continuing operations before joint venture activity	47,731	143,896	93,411	208,554
Gain (loss) from real estate joint ventures	(101)	(23)	27	(4)
Consolidated net income	47,630	143,873	93,438	208,550
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	2,486	7,574	4,881	10,984
Net income available for MAA common shareholders	$ 45,144	$ 136,299	$ 88,557	$ 197,566
Earnings per common share - basic:
Net income available for common shareholders	$ 0.60	$ 1.81	$ 1.17	$ 2.62
Earnings per common share - diluted:
Net income available for common shareholders	0.60	1.81	1.17	2.62
Dividends declared per common share	$ 0.82	$ 0.77	1.64	1.54
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit			$ 1.64	$ 1.54
Limited Partner [Member]
Operating revenues:
Rental revenues	$ 249,326	$ 236,165	$ 494,991	$ 471,106
Other property revenues	22,910	22,726	46,261	46,337
Total operating revenues	272,236	258,891	541,252	517,443
Property operating expenses:
Personnel	25,858	25,872	51,055	51,533
Building repairs and maintenance	7,680	7,778	13,779	14,403
Real estate taxes and insurance	34,729	32,805	69,900	66,126
Utilities	22,244	21,596	44,380	43,673
Landscaping	5,673	5,687	10,994	11,132
Other operating	6,771	7,118	13,728	14,638
Depreciation and amortization	75,742	74,396	150,870	147,508
Total property operating expenses	178,697	175,252	354,706	349,013
Acquisition expense	421	1,159	1,134	1,499
Property management expenses	8,310	6,986	17,313	15,478
General and administrative expenses	7,014	6,657	13,596	13,224
Income from continuing operations before non-operating items	77,794	68,837	154,503	138,229
Interest and other non-property (expense) income	62	29	94	(180)
Interest expense	(32,039)	(30,433)	(64,250)	(61,281)
Loss on debt extinguishment	0	(3)	3	(3,379)
Net casualty loss after insurance and other settlement proceeds	1,760	510	813	490
Gain on sale of depreciable real estate assets excluded from discontinued operations	68	105,182	823	135,410
Gain on sale of non-depreciable real estate assets	543	172	2,170	172
Income before income tax expense	48,188	144,294	94,156	209,461
Income tax expense	(457)	(398)	(745)	(907)
Income from continuing operations before joint venture activity	47,731	143,896	93,411	208,554
Gain (loss) from real estate joint ventures	(101)	(23)	27	(4)
Consolidated net income	47,630	143,873	93,438	208,550
Net income available for Mid-America Apartments, L.P. common unitholders	$ 47,630	$ 143,873	$ 93,438	$ 208,550
Earnings per common share - basic:
Net income available for common shareholders	$ 0.60	$ 1.81	$ 1.17	$ 2.62
Earnings per common share - diluted:
Net income available for common shareholders	0.60	1.81	1.17	2.62
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit	$ 0.82	$ 0.77	$ 1.64	$ 1.54

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Parent Company [Member]
Consolidated net income	$ 47,630	$ 143,873	$ 93,438	$ 208,550
Unrealized loss from the effective portion of derivitave insturments	(1,314)	1,804	(5,019)	(2,543)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax	1,131	1,791	2,317	3,983
Total comprehensive income	47,447	147,468	90,736	209,990
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2,477)	(7,764)	(4,740)	(11,060)
Comprehensive income attributable to MAA	44,970	139,704	85,996	198,930
Limited Partner [Member]
Consolidated net income	47,630	143,873	93,438	208,550
Unrealized loss from the effective portion of derivitave insturments	(1,314)	1,804	(5,019)	(2,543)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax	1,131	1,791	2,317	3,983
Comprehensive income attributable to Mid-America Apartments, L.P.	$ 47,447	$ 147,468	$ 90,736	$ 209,990

Condensed Consolidated Stateme7

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Parent Company [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	$ 93,438	$ 208,550
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Retail revenue accretion	(110)	(820)
Depreciation and amortization	151,114	147,765
Stock compensation expense	3,958	2,763
Redeemable stock issued	282	560
Amortization of debt premium	(5,096)	(8,517)
(Gain) loss from investments in real estate joint ventures	(27)	6
Loss on debt extinguishment	0	2,785
Derivative interest (credit) expense	(1,295)	(1,021)
Gain on sale of non-depreciable real estate assets	(2,170)	(172)
Gain on sale of depreciable real estate assets excluded from discontinued operations	(823)	(135,410)
Net casualty loss and other settlement proceeds	(813)	(490)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Restricted cash	951	1,720
Other assets	4,130	8,562
Accounts payable	(1,542)	(344)
Accrued expenses and other	(7,567)	(1,204)
Security deposits	702	1,109
Net cash provided by operating activities	238,216	226,530
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of real estate and other assets	(130,597)	(161,892)
Normal capital improvements	(44,417)	(48,099)
Construction capital and other improvements	(3,288)	(3,873)
Renovations to existing real estate assets	(17,719)	(12,747)
Development	(29,156)	(14,420)
Distributions from real estate joint ventures	1,793	6
Contributions to Real Estate Joint Ventures	0	(30)
Proceeds from disposition of real estate assets	38,001	238,849
(Funding) return of escrow for future acquisitions	0	(26,945)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(185,383)	(29,151)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in credit lines	105,000	(16,115)
Principal payments on notes payable	(37,261)	(55,199)
Payment of deferred financing costs	(141)	(178)
Repurchase of common stock	(1,742)	(945)
Proceeds from issuances of common shares	628	184
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised	0	420
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(6,823)	(6,443)
Dividends paid on common shares	(123,774)	(115,726)
Net cash used in financing activities	(64,113)	(194,002)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(11,280)	3,377
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	37,559	26,653
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	26,279	30,030
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest paid	71,092	71,596
Income Taxes Paid	1,544	2,051
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing and financing activities:
Conversion of units to shares of common stock	158	184
Accrued construction in progress	10,781	11,165
Interest capitalized	708	964
Marked-to-market adjustment on derivative instruments	(1,407)	2,484
Limited Partner [Member]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Consolidated net income	93,438	208,550
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Retail revenue accretion	(110)	(820)
Depreciation and amortization	151,114	147,765
Stock compensation expense	3,958	2,763
Redeemable stock issued	282	560
Amortization of debt premium	(5,096)	(8,517)
(Gain) loss from investments in real estate joint ventures	(27)	6
Loss on debt extinguishment	0	2,785
Derivative interest (credit) expense	(1,295)	(1,021)
Gain on sale of non-depreciable real estate assets	(2,170)	(172)
Gain on sale of depreciable real estate assets excluded from discontinued operations	(823)	(135,410)
Net casualty loss and other settlement proceeds	(813)	(490)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Restricted cash	951	1,720
Other assets	4,130	8,562
Accounts payable	(1,542)	(344)
Accrued expenses and other	(7,567)	(1,204)
Security deposits	702	1,109
Net cash provided by operating activities	238,216	226,530
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of real estate and other assets	(130,597)	(161,892)
Normal capital improvements	(44,417)	(48,099)
Construction capital and other improvements	(3,288)	(3,873)
Renovations to existing real estate assets	(17,719)	(12,747)
Development	(29,156)	(14,420)
Distributions from real estate joint ventures	1,793	6
Contributions to Real Estate Joint Ventures	0	(30)
Proceeds from disposition of real estate assets	38,001	238,849
(Funding) return of escrow for future acquisitions	0	(26,945)
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	(185,383)	(29,151)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in credit lines	105,000	(16,115)
Principal payments on notes payable	(37,261)	(55,199)
Payment of deferred financing costs	(141)	(178)
Repurchase of common units	(1,742)	(945)
Proceeds from issuances of common units	628	184
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised	0	420
Distributions paid on common units	(130,597)	(122,169)
Net cash used in financing activities	(64,113)	(194,002)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(11,280)	3,377
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	37,559	26,653
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	26,279
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Interest paid	71,092	71,596
Income Taxes Paid	1,544	2,051
Supplemental disclosure of noncash investing and financing activities:
Accrued construction in progress	10,781	11,165
Interest capitalized	708	964
Marked-to-market adjustment on derivative instruments	$ (1,407)	$ 2,484

Basis of Presentation and Princ

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation and Significant Accounting Policies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Consolidation and Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Consolidation and Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies	Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation and Significant Accounting Policies Unless the context otherwise requires, all references to "we," "us," "our," or the "Company" refer collectively to Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc., together with its consolidated subsidiaries, including Mid-America Apartments, L.P. Unless the context otherwise requires, all references to "MAA" refer only to Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. and not any of its consolidated subsidiaries. Unless the context otherwise requires, the references to the "Operating Partnership" or "MAALP" refer to Mid-America Apartments, L.P. together with its consolidated subsidiaries. "Common stock" refers to the common stock of MAA and "shareholders" means the holders of shares of MAA’s common stock. The limited partnership interests of the Operating Partnership are referred to as "OP Units" or "common units," and the holders of the OP Units are referred to as "unitholders". As of June 30, 2016 , MAA owned 75,524,086 units (or approximately 94.8% ) of the limited partnership interests of the Operating Partnership. MAA conducts substantially all of its business and holds substantially all of its assets through the Operating Partnership, and by virtue of its ownership of the OP Units and being the Operating Partnership's sole general partner, MAA has the ability to control all of the day-to-day operations of the Operating Partnership. We believe combining the notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements of MAA and MAALP results in the following benefits: • enhances a readers' understanding of MAA and the Operating Partnership by enabling the reader to view the business as a whole in the same manner that management views and operates the business; and • eliminates duplicative disclosure and provides a more streamlined and readable presentation since a substantial portion of the disclosure applies to both MAA and the Operating Partnership. Management operates MAA and the Operating Partnership as one business. The management of the Company is comprised of individuals who are officers of MAA and employees of the Operating Partnership. We believe it is important to understand the few differences between MAA and the Operating Partnership in the context of how MAA and the Operating Partnership operate as a consolidated company. MAA and the Operating Partnership are structured as an "umbrella partnership REIT," or UPREIT. MAA's interest in the Operating Partnership entitles MAA to share in cash distributions from, and in the profits and losses of, the Operating Partnership in proportion to MAA's percentage interest therein, and entitles MAA to vote on substantially all matters requiring a vote of the partners. MAA's only material asset is its ownership of limited partner interests in the Operating Partnership; therefore, MAA does not conduct business itself, other than acting as the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership, issuing public equity from time to time, and guaranteeing certain debt of the Operating Partnership. The Operating Partnership holds, directly or indirectly, all of our real estate assets. Except for net proceeds from public equity issuances by MAA, which are contributed to the Operating Partnership in exchange for OP Units, the Operating Partnership generates the capital required by our business through the Operating Partnership's operations, direct or indirect incurrence of indebtedness, and issuance of OP units. The presentation of MAA's shareholders' equity and the Operating Partnership's capital are the principal areas of difference between the condensed consolidated financial statements of MAA and those of the Operating Partnership. MAA's shareholders' equity may include shares of preferred stock, shares of common stock, additional paid-in capital, cumulative earnings, cumulative distributions, noncontrolling interest, preferred units, treasury shares, accumulated other comprehensive income and redeemable common units. The Operating Partnership's capital may include common capital and preferred capital of the general partner (MAA), limited partners' preferred capital, limited partners' noncontrolling interest, accumulated other comprehensive income and redeemable common units. Redeemable common units represent the number of outstanding OP Units as of the date of the applicable balance sheet, valued at the greater of the closing market price of MAA's common stock or the aggregate value of the individual partners' capital balances. Holders of OP Units (other than MAA and its corporate affiliates) may require us to redeem their OP Units from time to time, in which case we may, at our option, pay the redemption price either in cash (in an amount per OP Unit equal, in general, to the average closing price of MAA's common stock on the New York Stock Exchange over a specified period prior to the redemption date) or by delivering one share of our common stock (subject to adjustment under specified circumstances) for each OP Unit so redeemed. As of June 30, 2016 , we owned and operated 256 apartment communities comprising 80,300 apartments located in 15 states principally through the Operating Partnership. As of June 30, 2016 , we had four development communities under construction totaling 628 units. Total expected costs for the development projects are $96.9 million , of which $49.4 million has been incurred through June 30, 2016 . We expect to complete construction on one project by the third quarter of 2016, two projects by the second quarter of 2017, and one project by the fourth quarter of 2017. Six of our multifamily properties include retail components with approximately 194,000 square feet of gross leasable area. Reclassifications In order to present comparative financial statements, certain reclassifications have been made to prior period numbers. As disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the year ended December 31, 2015, we early adopted Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2015-03, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, which requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a reduction of the related debt liability rather than an asset. As a result of this adoption and to improve comparability, we reclassified certain costs from "Amortization of deferred financing costs" to "Interest Expense." Thus, the $0.9 million and $1.8 million of "Amortization of deferred financing costs" previously reported in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three and six months ended June 30, 2015, respectively, have been reclassified to "Interest expense" for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2015 in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations included in this Report. As a result of this income statement reclassification, $1.8 million of amortization of deferred financing costs for the six months ended June 30, 2015, initially reported in the "Depreciation and amortization" line of the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the 2015 Form 10-Q for the six months ended June 30, 2015, have been reclassified to "Amortization of debt premium and debt issuance costs," presented in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows included in this Report. Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by our management in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC. The condensed consolidated financial statements of MAA presented herein include the accounts of MAA, the Operating Partnership, and all other subsidiaries in which MAA has a controlling financial interest. MAA owns approximately 95% to 100% of all consolidated subsidiaries. The condensed consolidated financial statements of MAALP presented herein include the accounts of MAALP and all other subsidiaries in which MAALP has a controlling financial interest. MAALP owns, directly or indirectly, 100% of all consolidated subsidiaries. In our opinion, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the condensed consolidated financial statements have been included, and all such adjustments were of a normal recurring nature. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. We invest in entities which may qualify as variable interest entities, or VIEs. A VIE is a legal entity in which the equity investors lack sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or, as a group, the holders of the equity investment at risk lack the power to direct the activities of a legal entity as well as the obligation to absorb its expected losses or the right to receive its expected residual returns. We consolidate all VIEs for which we are the primary beneficiary and use the equity method to account for investments that qualify as VIEs but for which we are not the primary beneficiary. In determining whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we consider qualitative and quantitative factors, including but not limited to, those activities that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance and which party controls such activities. Effective January 1, 2016, we have has adopted ASU 2015-02, Consolidation: Topic 810, which resulted in the Operating Partnership now being classified as a VIE, since the limited partners of both entities lack substantive kick-out rights and substantive participating rights. The adoption of the new standard did not result in the consolidation of entities not previously consolidated or the de-consolidation of any entities previously consolidated. We are the primary beneficiary of, and continues to consolidate, both entities, and there was no material effect on our financial position or results of operations as a result of this adoption. See Footnote 14, Recent Accounting Pronouncements, for further details on the adoption of this standard. We use the equity method of accounting for our investments in entities for which we exercise significant influence, but do not have the ability to exercise control. These entities are not VIEs. The factors considered in determining that we do not have the ability to exercise control include ownership of voting interests and participatory rights of investors.

Earnings Per Common Share of MA

Earnings Per Common Share of MAA	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Common Share of MAA [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	Earnings per Common Share of MAA Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. All outstanding unvested restricted share awards contain rights to non-forfeitable dividends and participate in undistributed earnings with common shareholders and, accordingly, are considered participating securities that are included in the two-class method of computing basic earnings per share. Both the unvested restricted shares and other potentially dilutive common shares, and the related impact to earnings, are considered when calculating earnings per share on a diluted basis with our diluted earnings per share being the more dilutive of the treasury stock or two-class methods. OP Units are included in dilutive earnings per share calculations when they are dilutive to earnings per share. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 , MAA's basic earnings per share was computed using the two-class method, and MAA's diluted earnings per share was computed using the more dilutive of the treasury stock method or two-class method, as presented below: (dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 Shares Outstanding Weighted average common shares - basic 75,277 75,168 75,263 75,157 Weighted average partnership units outstanding — (1) — (1) — (1) — (1) Effect of dilutive securities — (2) — (2) 239 — (2) Weighted average common shares - diluted 75,277 75,168 75,502 75,157 Calculation of Earnings per Share - basic Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,486 ) (7,574 ) (4,881 ) (10,984 ) Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares (134 ) (337 ) (237 ) (446 ) Income from continuing operations available for common shareholders, adjusted $ 45,010 $ 135,962 $ 88,320 $ 197,120 Weighted average common shares - basic 75,277 75,168 75,263 75,157 Earnings per share - basic $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 Calculation of Earnings per Share - diluted Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,486 ) (1) (7,574 ) (1) (4,881 ) (1) (10,987 ) (1) Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares (134 ) (2) (337 ) (2) — (446 ) (2) Income from continuing operations available for common shareholders, adjusted $ 45,010 $ 135,962 $ 88,557 $ 197,117 Weighted average common shares - diluted 75,277 75,168 75,502 75,157 Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 (1) For both the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 , 4.2 million operating partnership units and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculations as they are not dilutive. (2) For the three months ended June 30, 2016 and for both the three and six months ended June 30, 2015 , 0.2 million potentially dilutive securities and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculations as they are not dilutive.

Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP

Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP [Abstract]
Earnings Per Unit [Text Block]	Earnings per OP Unit of MAALP Basic earnings per OP Unit is computed by dividing net income available for common unitholders by the weighted average number of OP Units outstanding during the period. All outstanding unvested restricted unit awards contain rights to non-forfeitable distributions and participate in undistributed earnings with common unitholders and, accordingly, are considered participating securities that are included in the two-class method of computing basic earnings per OP unit. Diluted earnings per OP Unit reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue OP Units were exercised or converted into OP Units. A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings per unit computations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 is presented below: (dollars and units in thousands, except per unit amounts) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 Units Outstanding Weighted average OP Units - basic 79,436 79,356 79,424 79,346 Effect of dilutive securities — (1) — (1) 239 — (1) Weighted average OP Units - diluted 79,436 79,356 79,663 79,346 Calculation of Earnings per Unit - basic Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted common units (134 ) (337 ) (237 ) (446 ) Income from continuing operations available for common unitholders, adjusted $ 47,496 $ 143,536 $ 93,201 $ 208,104 Weighted average OP Units - basic 79,436 79,356 79,424 79,346 Earnings per unit - basic $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 Calculation of Earnings per Unit - diluted Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted common units (134 ) (1) (337 ) (1) — (446 ) (1) Income from continuing operations available for common unitholders, adjusted $ 47,496 $ 143,536 $ 93,438 $ 208,104 Weighted average OP Units - diluted 79,436 79,356 79,663 79,346 Earnings per OP Unit - diluted $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 (1) For the three months ended June 30, 2016 and for both the three and six months ended June 30, 2015 , 0.2 million potentially dilutive securities and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per unit calculations as they are not dilutive.

MAA Equity

MAA Equity	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
MAA Equity [Abstract]
Consolidated Statements of Equity [Text Block]	MAA Equity Total equity and its components for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in thousands, except per share and per unit data): Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. Shareholders' Equity Common Stock Amount Additional Paid-In Capital Accumulated Distributions in Excess of Net Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity EQUITY BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2015 $ 753 $ 3,627,074 $ (634,141 ) $ (1,589 ) $ 165,726 $ 3,157,823 Net income — — 88,557 — 4,881 93,438 Other comprehensive loss - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — — (2,561 ) (141 ) (2,702 ) Issuance and registration of common shares 1 185 — — — 186 Shares repurchased and retired — (1,742 ) — — — (1,742 ) Shares issued in exchange for OP Units — 158 — — (158 ) — Shares issued in exchange from redeemable stock — 123 — — — 123 Redeemable stock fair market value adjustment — — (1,518 ) — — (1,518 ) Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership — (87 ) — — 87 — Amortization of unearned compensation — 4,383 — — — 4,383 Dividends on common stock ($1.64 per share) — — (123,852 ) — — (123,852 ) Dividends on noncontrolling interest OP Units ($1.64 per OP Unit) — — — — (6,820 ) (6,820 ) EQUITY BALANCE JUNE 30, 2016 $ 754 $ 3,630,094 $ (670,954 ) $ (4,150 ) $ 163,575 $ 3,119,319 Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. Shareholders' Equity Common Stock Amount Additional Paid-In Capital Accumulated Distributions in Excess of Net Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity EQUITY BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2014 $ 752 $ 3,619,270 $ (729,086 ) $ (412 ) $ 161,287 $ 3,051,811 Net income — — 197,566 — 10,984 208,550 Other comprehensive income - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — — 1,364 76 1,440 Issuance and registration of common shares 2 182 — — — 184 Shares repurchased and retired — (945 ) — — — (945 ) Exercise of stock options — 420 — — 420 Shares issued in exchange for OP Units — 184 — — (184 ) — Redeemable stock fair market value adjustment — — 173 — — 173 Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership — 45 — — (45 ) — Amortization of unearned compensation — 3,167 — — — 3,167 Dividends on common stock ($1.54 per share) — — (116,066 ) — — (116,066 ) Dividends on noncontrolling interest OP Units ($1.54 per OP Unit) — — — — (6,449 ) (6,449 ) EQUITY BALANCE JUNE 30, 2015 $ 754 $ 3,622,323 $ (647,413 ) $ 952 $ 165,669 $ 3,142,285

MAALP Capital

MAALP Capital	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
MAALP Capital [Abstract]
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Capital [Text Block]	MAALP Capital Total capital and its components for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in thousands, except per unit data): Mid-America Apartments, L.P. Unitholders Limited Partner General Partner Accumulated Total Partnership Capital CAPITAL BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2015 $ 165,726 $ 2,993,696 $ (1,618 ) $ 3,157,804 Net income 4,881 88,557 — 93,438 Other comprehensive loss - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — (2,702 ) (2,702 ) Issuance of OP Units — 186 — 186 OP Units repurchased and retired — (1,742 ) — (1,742 ) General partner OP Units issued in exchange for limited partner units (158 ) 158 — — OP Units issued in exchange for redeemable units — 123 — 123 Redeemable OP Units fair market value adjustment — (1,518 ) — (1,518 ) Adjustment for limited partners' capital at redemption value (54 ) 54 — — Amortization of unearned compensation — 4,383 — 4,383 Distributions ($1.64 per OP Unit) (6,820 ) (123,852 ) — (130,672 ) CAPITAL BALANCE JUNE 30, 2016 $ 163,575 $ 2,960,045 $ (4,320 ) $ 3,119,300 Mid-America Apartments, L.P. Unitholders Limited Partner General Partner Accumulated Total Partnership Capital CAPITAL BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2014 $ 161,310 $ 2,890,858 $ (376 ) $ 3,051,792 Net income 10,984 197,566 — 208,550 Other comprehensive income - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — 1,440 1,440 Issuance of OP Units — 184 — 184 OP Units repurchased and retired — (945 ) — (945 ) Exercise of OP Unit options 420 — 420 General partner OP Units issued in exchange for limited partner units (184 ) 184 — — Redeemable OP Units fair market value adjustment — 173 — 173 Adjustment for limited partners' capital at redemption value (45 ) 45 — — Amortization of unearned compensation — 3,167 — 3,167 Distributions ($1.54 per OP Unit) (6,449 ) (116,066 ) — (122,515 ) CAPITAL BALANCE JUNE 30, 2015 $ 165,616 $ 2,975,586 $ 1,064 $ 3,142,266

Borrowings

Borrowings	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Notes Payable	Borrowings The weighted average interest rate at June 30, 2016 for the $3.49 billion of debt outstanding was 3.7% , compared to the weighted average interest rate of 3.7% on $3.43 billion of debt outstanding at December 31, 2015 . Our debt consists of an unsecured credit facility, unsecured term loans, senior unsecured notes, a secured credit facility with Fannie Mae, and secured property mortgages. We utilize fixed rate borrowings, interest rate swaps, and interest rate caps to manage our current and future interest rate risk. More details on our borrowings can be found in the schedules presented later in this section. At June 30, 2016 , we had $2.1 billion of senior unsecured notes and term loans fixed at an average interest rate of 3.9% and a $750 million variable rate credit facility with an average interest rate of 1.5% with $180.0 million borrowed at June 30, 2016 . Additionally, we had $115.0 million of conventional, secured variable rate debt outstanding at an average interest rate of 1.1% and $75.0 million of capped conventional, secured variable rate debt at an average interest rate of 1.1% . The interest rate on all other secured debt, totaling $1.0 billion , was hedged or fixed at an average interest rate of 4.0% . Unsecured Credit Facility We maintain a $750.0 million unsecured credit facility with a syndicate of banks led by KeyBank National Association, or the KeyBank Facility. The KeyBank Facility includes an expansion option up to $1.5 billion . The KeyBank Facility bears an interest rate of LIBOR plus a spread of 0.85% to 1.55% based on an investment grade pricing grid and is currently bearing interest at an all-in rate of 1.47% . The KeyBank Facility expires in April 2020 with an option to extend for an additional six months. At June 30, 2016 , we had $180.0 million actually borrowed under this facility, and another approximately $2.8 million used to support letters of credit. Unsecured Term Loans We also maintain three term loans with a syndicate of banks, led by KeyBank National Association, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and U.S. Bank National Association, respectively. The KeyBank term loan has a balance of $150.0 million , matures in 2021, and has a variable interest rate of LIBOR plus a spread of 0.90% to 1.75% based on our credit ratings. The Wells Fargo term loan has a balance of $250.0 million and matures in 2018. The US Bank term loan has a balance of $150.0 million and matures in 2020. Both the Wells Fargo and US Bank term loans have variable interest rates of LIBOR plus a spread of 0.90% to 1.90% based on our credit ratings. Senior Unsecured Notes As of June 30, 2016 , we have approximately $1.2 billion of publicly issued notes and $310.0 million of private placement notes. These senior unsecured notes have maturities ranging from five to 12 years , averaging 7.2 years remaining until maturity as of June 30, 2016 . Secured Credit Facility We maintain a $240.0 million secured credit facility with Prudential Mortgage Capital, which is credit enhanced by Fannie Mae, or the Fannie Mae Facility. The Fannie Mae Facility provides for both fixed and variable rate borrowings and has Fannie Mae rate tranches with maturities from 2016 through 2018. The interest rate on the majority of the variable portion renews every 90 days and is based on the Fannie Mae discount mortgage backed security rate on the date of renewal, which, for us, has historically approximated three-month LIBOR less an average of 0.17% over the life of the Fannie Mae Facility, plus a fee of 0.62% . Borrowings under the Fannie Mae Facility totaled $240.0 million at June 30, 2016 , consisting of $50.0 million under a fixed portion at a rate of 4.7% , and the remaining $190.0 million under the variable rate portion of the facility at an average rate of 1.1% . The available borrowing capacity at June 30, 2016 , was $240.0 million . Secured Property Mortgages At June 30, 2016 , we had $1.0 billion of fixed rate conventional property mortgages with an average interest rate of 4.0% and an average maturity in 2019. On February 1, 2016, we paid off a $13.4 million mortgage associated with the Colonial Village at Matthews apartment community. The loan was scheduled for maturity in March 2016. On March 1, 2016, we paid off a $20.2 million mortgage associated with the Verandas at Southwood apartment community. The payoff was a scheduled maturity of the loan. In addition to these payoffs, we have paid $3.6 million associated with property mortgage principal amortizations. Guarantees MAA fully and unconditionally guarantees the following debt incurred by the Operating Partnership: • $240.0 million of the Fannie Mae Facility, of which $240.0 million has been borrowed as of June 30, 2016 ; and • $310.0 million of senior unsecured notes, all of which has been borrowed as of June 30, 2016 . Total Outstanding Debt The following table summarizes our indebtedness at June 30, 2016 , (dollars in thousands): Borrowed Balance Effective Rate Average Contract Maturity Fixed Rate Secured Debt Individual property mortgages $ 975,330 4.0 % 8/22/2019 Fannie Mae conventional credit facility 50,000 4.7 % 3/31/2017 Total fixed rate secured debt $ 1,025,330 4.0 % 7/11/2019 Variable Rate Secured Debt (1) Fannie Mae conventional credit facility 190,000 1.1 % 8/26/2017 Total variable rate secured debt $ 190,000 1.1 % 8/26/2017 Fair market value adjustments and debt issuance costs 27,868 Total Secured Debt $ 1,243,198 3.6 % 3/26/2019 Unsecured Debt Variable rate credit facility $ 180,000 1.5 % 4/15/2020 Term loan fixed with swaps 550,000 3.1 % 11/10/2017 Fixed rate bonds 1,535,246 4.2 % 9/16/2023 Fair market value adjustments, debt issuance costs and discounts (19,019 ) Total Unsecured Debt $ 2,246,227 3.7 % 1/10/2022 Total Outstanding Debt $ 3,489,425 3.7 % 1/5/2021 (1) Includes capped balances.

Derivatives and Hedging Activit

Derivatives and Hedging Activities	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Derivatives and Hedging Activities	Derivatives and Hedging Activities Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives We are exposed to certain risks arising from both our business operations and economic conditions. We principally manage our exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of our core business activities. We manage economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity and credit risk, primarily by managing the amount, sources and duration of our debt funding and the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, we enter into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from business activities that result in the payment of future contractual and forecasted cash amounts, principally related to our borrowings, the value of which are determined by changing interest rates, related cash flows and other factors. Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk Our objectives in using interest rate derivatives are to add stability to interest expense and to manage our exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish these objectives, we use interest rate swaps and interest rate caps as part of our interest rate risk management strategy. Interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for us making fixed-rate payments over the life of the agreements without exchange of the underlying notional amount. Interest rate caps designated as cash flow hedges involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty if interest rates rise above the strike rate on the contract in exchange for an up-front premium. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 , such derivatives were used to hedge the variable cash flows associated with existing variable-rate debt and forecasted issuances of fixed-rate debt. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives is recognized directly in earnings. During the three months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 , we recorded ineffectiveness of $120,000 (increase to interest expense) and $12,000 (increase to interest expense), respectively, and during the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 , we recorded ineffectiveness of $163,000 (increase to interest expense) and $73,000 (increase to interest expense), respectively, mainly attributable to a mismatch in the underlying indices of the derivatives and the hedged interest payments made on our variable-rate debt and due to the designation of acquired interest rate swaps with a non-zero fair value at inception. Amounts reported in "Accumulated other comprehensive income" related to derivatives designated as qualifying cash flow hedges will be reclassified to interest expense as interest payments are made on our variable-rate or fixed-rate debt. During the next twelve months, we estimate that an additional $3.7 million will be reclassified to earnings as an increase to Interest expense, which primarily represents the difference between our fixed interest rate swap payments and the projected variable interest rate swap payments. As of June 30, 2016 , we had the following outstanding interest rate derivatives that were designated as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk: Interest Rate Derivative Number of Instruments Notional Amount Interest Rate Caps 3 $ 75,000,000 Interest Rate Swaps 7 $ 550,000,000 Tabular Disclosure of the Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statements of Operations The table below presents the effect of our derivative financial instruments on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 . Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 (dollars in thousands) Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships Gain or (Loss) Gain or (Loss) Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Interest Expense (Ineffective Three months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 Interest rate contracts $ (1,314 ) $ 1,804 $ (1,131 ) $ (1,791 ) $ (120 ) $ (12 ) Six months ended June 30, Interest rate contracts $ (5,019 ) $ (2,543 ) $ (2,317 ) $ (3,983 ) $ (163 ) $ (73 ) Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Three months ended June 30, 2016 2015 Interest rate contracts $ — $ — Six months ended June 30, Interest rate contracts $ — $ (3 ) Credit-Risk-Related Contingent Features As of June 30, 2016 , derivatives that were in a net liability position and subject to credit-risk-related contingent features had a termination value of $12.5 million , which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk. These derivatives had a fair value, gross of asset positions, of $11.8 million at June 30, 2016 . Certain of our derivative contracts contain a provision where we could be declared in default on our derivative obligations if repayment of the underlying indebtedness is accelerated by the lender due to our default on the indebtedness. As of June 30, 2016 , we had not breached the provisions of these agreements. If we had breached these provisions, we could have been required to settle our obligations under the agreements at the termination value of $12.5 million . Although our derivative contracts are subject to master netting arrangements, which serve as credit mitigants to both us and our counterparties under certain situations, we do not net our derivative fair values or any existing rights or obligations to cash collateral on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. We did not have any asset or liability derivative balances that were offsetting that would have resulted in reported net derivative balances differing from the recorded gross amount of derivative assets of $1,000 and $6,000 as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively, in addition to gross recorded derivative liabilities of $11.8 million and $10.4 million as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , respectively. Other Comprehensive Income MAA's other comprehensive income consists entirely of gains and losses attributable to the effective portion of our cash flow hedges. The chart below shows the change in the balance for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 (dollars in thousands): Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements Of Operations Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedges For the six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 Beginning balance $ (1,589 ) $ (412 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (5,019 ) (2,543 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (interest rate contracts) Interest expense 2,317 3,983 Net current-period other comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest 141 (76 ) Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income attributable to MAA (2,561 ) 1,364 Ending balance $ (4,150 ) $ 952 See also discussions in Note 8 (Fair Value Disclosure of Financial Instruments) to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Fair Value Disclosure of Financ

Fair Value Disclosure of Financial Instruments	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Fair Value Disclosure of Financial Instruments	Fair Value Disclosure of Financial Instruments Fair value is based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or the exit price that would be paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. A three-level valuation hierarchy prioritizes observable and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which are described below: • Level 1 - Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the entity has the ability to access. • Level 2 - Observable inputs other than prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated with observable market data. • Level 3 - Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of the assets and liabilities. This includes certain pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant unobservable inputs. In instances where the determination of the fair value measurement is based on inputs from different levels of the fair value hierarchy, the level in the fair value hierarchy within which the entire fair value measurement falls is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability. Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value At June 30, 2016 , the fair values of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities and security deposits approximated their carrying value due to their short term nature. Fixed rate notes payable at June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , totaled $2.57 billion and $2.61 billion , respectively, and had estimated fair values of $2.76 billion and $2.71 billion (excluding prepayment penalties), respectively, as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . The carrying value of variable rate notes payable (excluding the effect of interest rate swap and cap agreements) at June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , totaled $920.0 million and $815.0 million , respectively, and had estimated fair values of $909.3 million and $817.7 million (excluding prepayment penalties), respectively, as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . The valuation of our debt is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each debt instrument. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the debt, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and credit spreads. The fair values of fixed debt are determined by using the present value of future cash outflows discounted with the applicable current market rate plus a credit spread. The fair values of variable debt are determined using the stated variable rate plus the current market credit spread. Our variable rates reset every 30 to 90 days and we conclude that these rates reasonably estimate current market rates. We have determined that inputs used to value our debt fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and therefore our fair market valuation of debt is considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Financial Instruments Carried at Fair Value Currently, we use interest rate swaps and interest rate caps (options) to manage our interest rate risk. The valuation of these instruments is determined using widely accepted valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow analysis on the expected cash flows of each derivative. This analysis reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including interest rate curves and implied volatilities. The fair values of interest rate swaps are determined using the market standard methodology of netting the discounted future fixed cash receipts (or payments) and the discounted expected variable cash payments (or receipts). The variable cash payments (or receipts) are based on an expectation of future interest rates (forward curves) derived from observable market interest rate curves. The fair values of interest rate options are determined using the market standard methodology of discounting the future expected cash receipts that would occur if variable interest rates rise above the strike rate of the caps. The variable interest rates used in the calculation of projected receipts on the cap are based on an expectation of future interest rates derived from observable market interest rate curves and volatilities. We incorporate credit valuation adjustments to appropriately reflect both our own nonperformance risk and the respective counterparty’s nonperformance risk in the fair value measurements. In adjusting the fair value of our derivative contracts for the effect of nonperformance risk, we have considered the impact of netting and any applicable credit enhancements, such as collateral postings, thresholds, mutual puts and guarantees. In conjunction with the FASB's fair value measurement guidance, we made an accounting policy election to measure the credit risk of our derivative financial instruments that are subject to master netting agreements on a net basis by counterparty portfolio. We have determined that the majority of the inputs used to value our derivatives fall within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy, and as a result, all of our derivatives held as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 were classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The table below presents a summary of the fair value measurements for each major category of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and the location within the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall. Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis at June 30, 2016 (dollars in thousands) Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Balance Sheet Location Quoted Prices in Significant Significant (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Assets Interest rate contracts Other assets $ — $ 1 $ — $ 1 Liabilities Interest rate contracts Fair market value of interest rate swaps $ — $ 11,760 $ — $ 11,760 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis at December 31, 2015 (dollars in thousands) Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Balance Sheet Location Quoted Prices in Significant Significant (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Assets Interest rate contracts Other assets $ — $ 6 $ — $ 6 Liabilities Interest rate contracts Fair market value of interest rate swaps $ — $ 10,358 $ — $ 10,358 The fair value estimates presented herein are based on information available to management as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 . These estimates are not necessarily indicative of the amounts we could ultimately realize. See also discussions in Note 7 (Derivatives and Hedging Activities) to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Shareholders' Equity of MAA

Shareholders' Equity of MAA	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Shareholders' Equity of MAA [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	Shareholders' Equity of MAA On June 30, 2016 , 75,524,086 shares of MAA's common stock and 4,159,003 OP Units were issued and outstanding, representing a total of 79,683,089 shares and units. At June 30, 2015 , 75,375,027 shares of MAA's common stock and 4,186,369 OP Units were outstanding, representing a total of 79,561,396 shares and units. There were outstanding options to purchase 39,084 shares of MAA's common stock as of June 30, 2016 compared to outstanding options to purchase 58,112 shares of MAA common stock as of June 30, 2015 . During the six months ended June 30, 2016 , 18,988 shares of MAA's common stock were acquired from employees to satisfy minimum tax withholding obligations that arose upon vesting of restricted stock granted pursuant to approved plans. During the six months ended June 30, 2015 , 11,755 shares were acquired for that purpose. During the six months ended June 30, 2015 , we issued 7,342 shares related to the exercise of stock options. These exercises resulted in proceeds of $0.4 million . During the six months ended June 30, 2016 there were no stock options exercised.

Partners' Capital of Mid-Americ

Partners' Capital of Mid-America Apartments, L.P.	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Partners' Capital of Mid-America Apartments, L.P. [Abstract]
Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block]	Partners' Capital of MAALP OP Units Interests in the Operating Partnership are represented by Operating Partnership Units, or OP Units. As of June 30, 2016 , there were 79,683,089 OP Units outstanding, 75,524,086 or 94.8% of which were owned by MAA, MAALP's general partner. The remaining 4,159,003 OP Units were owned by non-affiliated limited partners, or Class A Limited Partners. As of June 30, 2015 , there were 79,561,396 OP Units outstanding, 75,375,027 or 94.7% of which were owned by MAA and 4,186,369 of which were owned by the Class A Limited Partners. MAA, as the sole general partner of MAALP, has full, complete and exclusive discretion to manage and control the business of the Operating Partnership subject to the restrictions specifically contained within the Operating Partnership's agreement of limited partnership, or the Partnership Agreement. Unless otherwise stated in the Partnership Agreement, this power includes, but is not limited to, acquiring, leasing, or disposing of any real property; constructing buildings and making other improvements to properties owned; borrowing money, modifying or extinguishing current borrowings, issuing evidence of indebtedness, and securing such indebtedness by mortgage, deed of trust, pledge or other lien on the Operating Partnership's assets; and distribution of cash or other assets in accordance with the Partnership Agreement. MAA can generally, at its sole discretion, issue and redeem OP Units and determine the consideration to be received or the redemption price to be paid, as applicable. The general partner may delegate these and other powers granted if MAA remains in supervision of the designee. Under the Partnership Agreement, the Operating Partnership may issue Class A Units and Class B Units. Class A Units may only be held by limited partners who are not affiliated with MAA, in its capacity as general partner of the Operating Partnership, while Class B Units may only be held by MAA, in its capacity as general partner of the Operating Partnership, and as of June 30, 2016 , a total of 4,159,003 Class A Units in the Operating Partnership were held by limited partners unaffiliated with MAA, while a total of 75,524,086 Class B OP Units were held by MAA. In general, the limited partners do not have the power to participate in the management or control of the Operating Partnership's business except in limited circumstances including changes in the general partner and protective rights if the general partner acts outside of the provisions provided in the Partnership Agreement. The transferability of Class A Units is also limited by the Partnership Agreement. Net income is allocated to the general partner and limited partners based on their respective ownership percentages of the Operating Partnership. Issuance or redemption of additional Class A Units or Class B Units changes the relative ownership percentage of the partners. The issuance of Class B Units generally occurs when MAA issues common stock and the proceeds from that issuance are contributed to the Operating Partnership in exchange for the issuance to MAA of a number of OP Units equal to the number of shares of common stock issued. Likewise, if MAA repurchases or redeems outstanding shares of common stock, the Operating Partnership generally redeems an equal number of Class B Units with similar terms held by MAA for a redemption price equal to the purchase price of those shares of common stock. At each reporting period, the allocation between general partner capital and limited partner capital is adjusted to account for the change in the respective percentage ownership of the underlying capital of the Operating Partnership. Holders of the Class A Units may require MAA to redeem their Class A Units, in which case MAA may, at its option, pay the redemption price either in cash (in an amount per Class A OP Unit equal, in general, to the average closing price of MAA's common stock on the New York Stock Exchange over a specified period prior to the redemption date) or by delivering one share of MAA common stock (subject to adjustment under specified circumstances) for each Class A Unit so redeemed. At June 30, 2016 , a total of 4,159,003 Class A Units were outstanding and redeemable for 4,159,003 shares of MAA common stock, with an approximate value of $442.5 million , based on the closing price of MAA’s common stock on June 30, 2016 of $106.40 per share. At June 30, 2015 , a total of 4,186,369 Class A Units were outstanding and redeemable for 4,186,369 shares of MAA common stock, with an approximate value of $304.8 million , based on the closing price of MAA’s common stock on June 30, 2015 of $72.81 per share. The Operating Partnership pays the same per unit distribution in respect to the OP Units as the per share dividend MAA pays in respect to its common and stock.

Legal Proceedings

Legal Proceedings	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Legal Proceedings [Line Items]
Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block]	Legal Proceedings We, along with multiple other parties, were named defendants in lawsuits arising out of alleged construction deficiencies with respect to condominium units at Regatta at James Island in Charleston, South Carolina. The lawsuits, one filed on behalf of the condominium homeowners association and one filed by three of the unit owners (purportedly on behalf of all unit owners), were filed in South Carolina state court (Charleston County) in August 2012, against various parties involved in the development and construction of the Regatta at James Island property, including the contractors, subcontractors, architect, developer, and product manufacturers. During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we reached a settlement agreement in principle with the plaintiffs. On April 11, 2016, the court approved the settlement, and a settlement agreement among all remaining parties to the litigation was executed, effectively concluding the cases. We are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of our business operations. Matters which arise out of allegations of bodily injury, property damage, and employment practices are generally covered by insurance. While the resolution of these other matters cannot be predicted with certainty, management currently believes the final outcome of such matters will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Loss Contingencies The outcomes of the claims, disputes and legal proceedings described or referenced above are subject to significant uncertainty. We record an accrual for loss contingencies when a loss is probable and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We review these accruals quarterly and make revisions based on changes in facts and circumstances. When a loss contingency is not both probable and reasonably estimable, we do not accrue the loss. However, for material loss contingencies, if the unrecorded loss (or an additional loss in excess of the accrual) is at least a reasonable possibility and material, then we disclose a reasonable estimate of the possible loss, or range of loss, if such reasonable estimate can be made. If we cannot make a reasonable estimate of the possible loss, or range of loss, then that is disclosed. The assessment of whether a loss is probable or a reasonable possibility, and whether the loss or range of loss is reasonably estimable, often involves a series of complex judgments about future events. Among the factors that we consider in this assessment, including with respect to the matters disclosed in this Note, are the nature of existing legal proceedings and claims, the asserted or possible damages or loss contingency (if reasonably estimable), the progress of the matter, existing law and precedent, the opinions or views of legal counsel and other advisers, our experience in similar matters, the facts available to us at the time of assessment, and how we intend to respond, or have responded, to the proceeding or claim. Our assessment of these factors may change over time as individual proceedings or claims progress. For matters where we are not currently able to reasonably estimate a range of reasonably possible loss, the factors that have contributed to this determination include the following: (i) the damages sought are indeterminate; (ii) the proceedings are in the early stages; (iii) the matters involve novel or unsettled legal theories or a large or uncertain number of actual or potential cases or parties; and/or (iv) discussions with the parties in matters that are expected ultimately to be resolved through negotiation and settlement have not reached the point where we believe a reasonable estimate of loss, or range of loss, can be made. In such instances, we believe that there is considerable uncertainty regarding the timing or ultimate resolution of such matters, including a possible eventual loss or business impact, if any. As of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , our accrual for loss contingencies was $9.9 million and $13.5 million in the aggregate, respectively.

Segment Information

Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information As of June 30, 2016 , we owned 256 multifamily apartment communities in 15 different states from which we derived all significant sources of earnings and operating cash flows. Senior management evaluates performance and determines resource allocations of each of our apartment communities on a Large Market Same Store, Secondary Market Same Store, and Non-Same Store and Other basis, as well as an individual apartment community basis. This is consistent with the aggregation criteria under GAAP as each of our apartment communities generally has similar economic characteristics, facilities, services, and tenants. The following are the three reportable operating segments for MAA and the Operating Partnership: • Large market same store communities are generally communities in markets with a population of at least 1 million and at least 1% of the total public multifamily REIT units that we have owned and have been stabilized for at least a full 12 months. • Secondary market same store communities are generally communities in markets with populations of more than 1 million but less than 1% of the total public multifamily REIT units or markets with populations of less than 1 million that we have owned and have been stabilized for at least a full 12 months. • Non same store communities and other includes recent acquisitions, communities in development or lease-up, communities that have been identified for disposition, and communities that have had a significant casualty loss resulting in units not available for lease. Also included in non same store communities are non-multifamily activities, which represent less than 1% of our portfolio. On the first day of each calendar year, we determine the composition of our same store operating segments for that year as well as adjust the previous year, which allows us to evaluate full period-over-period operating comparisons. Properties in development or lease-up will be added to the same store portfolio on the first day of the calendar year after they have been owned and stabilized for at least a full 12 months. Communities are considered stabilized after achieving 90% occupancy for 90 days . Communities that have been identified for disposition are excluded from our same store portfolio. We utilize net operating income, or NOI, in evaluating the performance of the segments. Total NOI represents total property revenues less total property operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization, for all properties held during the period regardless of their status as held for sale. We believe NOI is a helpful tool in evaluating the operating performance of our segments because it measures the core operations of property performance by excluding corporate level expenses and other items not related to property operating performance. A redevelopment community is a community with a specific plan in place to upgrade at least half of the community's units over a period of time with new finishes, fixtures, and appliances, among other upgrades. These plans include spending a pre-defined amount of capital per unit to achieve a rent increase as a result of the upgrades. We separately identify redevelopment communities that would cause a material distortion of normal same store operating results. Routine renovations occur at a property as items need to be replaced as a normal part of operations and is done with an expectation to maintain the current level of quality at the property. There is no specified plan in place for routine renovations. Revenues and NOI for each reportable segment for the three- and six- month periods ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 Revenues: Large Market Same Store $ 160,983 $ 153,068 $ 319,704 $ 302,894 Secondary Market Same Store 84,232 81,820 167,825 161,739 Non-Same Store and Other 27,021 24,003 53,723 52,810 Total operating revenues $ 272,236 $ 258,891 $ 541,252 $ 517,443 NOI: Large Market Same Store $ 99,619 $ 93,325 $ 197,698 $ 184,695 Secondary Market Same Store 52,523 50,579 105,696 100,488 Non-Same Store and Other 17,139 14,131 34,022 30,755 Total NOI 169,281 158,035 337,416 315,938 Depreciation and amortization (75,742 ) (74,396 ) (150,870 ) (147,508 ) Acquisition expense (421 ) (1,159 ) (1,134 ) (1,499 ) Property management expense (8,310 ) (6,986 ) (17,313 ) (15,478 ) General and administrative expense (7,014 ) (6,657 ) (13,596 ) (13,224 ) Interest and other non-property income (expense) 62 29 94 (180 ) Interest expense (32,039 ) (30,433 ) (64,250 ) (61,281 ) (Loss) gain on debt extinguishment/modification — (3 ) 3 (3,379 ) Gain on sale of depreciable real estate assets 68 105,182 823 135,410 Net casualty gain after insurance and other settlement proceeds 1,760 510 813 490 Income tax expense (457 ) (398 ) (745 ) (907 ) Gain on sale of non-depreciable real estate assets 543 172 2,170 172 (Loss) gain from real estate joint ventures (101 ) (23 ) 27 (4 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,486 ) (7,574 ) (4,881 ) (10,984 ) Net income available for MAA common shareholders $ 45,144 $ 136,299 $ 88,557 $ 197,566 Assets for each reportable segment as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , were as follows (dollars in thousands): June 30, 2016 December 31, 2015 Assets: Large Market Same Store $ 3,713,096 $ 3,768,455 Secondary Market Same Store 1,639,419 1,661,956 Non-Same Store and Other 1,461,441 1,344,833 Corporate assets 55,425 72,537 Total assets $ 6,869,381 $ 6,847,781 The decrease in the Large and Secondary Market Same Store categories and the increases in the Non-Same Store category as of June 30, 2016, as compared to December 31, 2015, is due to properties identified for disposition in 2016 being removed from the Same Store categories.

Real Estate Acquisitions and Di

Real Estate Acquisitions and Dispositions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Real Estate Acquisitions and Dispositions	Real Estate Acquisitions and Dispositions The following chart shows our acquisition activity for the six months ended June 30, 2016 : Community Location Units Date Acquired The Apartments at Cobblestone Square Fredericksburg, Virginia 314 March 1, 2016 Residences at Fountainhead Tempe, Arizona 322 June 30, 2016 The following chart shows our disposition activity for the six months ended June 30, 2016 : Community Location Sq. Ft./Acres Date Sold McKinney (1) McKinney, Texas 30 acres February 5, 2016 Colonial Promenade Nord du Lac Covington, Louisiana 295,447 sq. ft. March 28, 2016 Colonial Promenade Nord du Lac - Outparcels Covington, Louisiana 25 acres March 28, 2016 Colonial Grand at Heathrow - Adjacent Land Parcels Heathrow, Florida 11 acres April 7, 2016 and April 13, 2016 Land Title Building (2) Birmingham, Alabama 30,000 sq. ft. May 23, 2016 Colonial Promenade Huntsville Land Huntsville, Alabama 1.3 acres June 29, 2016 (1) This property, consisting of undeveloped land, was sold by McDowell CRLP McKinney JV, LLC, a joint venture, in which MAA owned a 25% interest. (2) This property, consisting of a commercial office building, was sold by Six Hundred Building Partners, a joint venture in which MAA owned a 33% interest.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

Recent Accounting Pronouncements	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements The following table provides a brief description of recent accounting pronouncements that could have a material effect on our financial statements: Standard Description Date of Adoption Effect on the Financial Statements or Other Significant Matters Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2015-02 , Consolidation (Topic 810) ASU 2015-02, affects reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. Specifically, the amendments: (i) modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities ("VIEs") or voting interest entities, (ii) eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, (iii) affect the consolidated analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships and (iv) provide a scope exception for certain entities. This ASU is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2015. We adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2016, and there was no material effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations taken as a whole. While adoption of the new standard did not result in the consolidation of entities not previously consolidated or the de-consolidation of any entities previously consolidated, the Operating Partnership is now classified as a VIE as the limited partners lack substantive kick-out rights and substantive participating rights. Thus, the Company is the primary beneficiary of, and continues to consolidate MAALP. ASU 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern This ASU requires an entity's management to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued. If substantial doubt exists, the entity must disclose the principal conditions or events that raised the substantial doubt, management's evaluation of the significance of these conditions, and management's plan for alleviating the substantial doubt about the entity's ability to continue as a going concern. This ASU is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016; however, early adoption is permitted. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact of this ASU, but do not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations taken as a whole. ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers This ASU establishes principles for recognizing revenue upon the transfer of promised goods or services to customers, in an amount that reflects the expected consideration received in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, as a result of a deferral of the effective date arising from the issuance of ASU 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Deferral of the Effective Date. Early adoption is permitted. The amendments may be applied retrospectively to each prior period presented or retrospectively with the cumulative effect recognized as of the date of initial application. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact of adoption of this ASU on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations taken as a whole, but do not expect the impact to be material. We have not yet determined which method will be used for initial application. ASU 2016-02, Leases This ASU amends existing accounting standards for lease accounting and establishes the principles for lease accounting for both the lessee and lessor. requires an entity to recognize a right-of-use asset and lease liability for all leases with terms of more than 12 months. Recognition, measurement and presentation of expenses will depend on classification as a finance or operating lease. The amendments also require certain quantitative and qualitative disclosures about leasing arrangements. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018; however, early adoption is permitted. The standard must be adopted using a modified retrospective transition and provides for certain practical expedients. Transition will require application of the new guidance at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact of this ASU, but do not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations taken as a whole. ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting This ASU amends existing accounting standards for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. The new guidance will require all income tax effects of awards to be recognized in the income statement when the awards vest or are settled. It also will allow an employer to repurchase more of an employee’s shares than it can today for tax withholding purposes without triggering liability accounting and to make a policy election to account for forfeitures as they occur. This ASU is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016; however, early adoption is permitted. The standard must be adopted using a modified retrospective transition method, with a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact of this ASU, but do not expect the adoption of this ASU to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations taken as a whole.

Basis of Presentation and Pri22

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation [Abstract]
Basis Of Presentation And Principles Of Consolidation Policy [Policy Text Block]	Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by our management in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC. The condensed consolidated financial statements of MAA presented herein include the accounts of MAA, the Operating Partnership, and all other subsidiaries in which MAA has a controlling financial interest. MAA owns approximately 95% to 100% of all consolidated subsidiaries. The condensed consolidated financial statements of MAALP presented herein include the accounts of MAALP and all other subsidiaries in which MAALP has a controlling financial interest. MAALP owns, directly or indirectly, 100% of all consolidated subsidiaries. In our opinion, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the condensed consolidated financial statements have been included, and all such adjustments were of a normal recurring nature. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. We invest in entities which may qualify as variable interest entities, or VIEs. A VIE is a legal entity in which the equity investors lack sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or, as a group, the holders of the equity investment at risk lack the power to direct the activities of a legal entity as well as the obligation to absorb its expected losses or the right to receive its expected residual returns. We consolidate all VIEs for which we are the primary beneficiary and use the equity method to account for investments that qualify as VIEs but for which we are not the primary beneficiary. In determining whether we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we consider qualitative and quantitative factors, including but not limited to, those activities that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance and which party controls such activities. Effective January 1, 2016, we have has adopted ASU 2015-02, Consolidation: Topic 810, which resulted in the Operating Partnership now being classified as a VIE, since the limited partners of both entities lack substantive kick-out rights and substantive participating rights. The adoption of the new standard did not result in the consolidation of entities not previously consolidated or the de-consolidation of any entities previously consolidated. We are the primary beneficiary of, and continues to consolidate, both entities, and there was no material effect on our financial position or results of operations as a result of this adoption. See Footnote 14, Recent Accounting Pronouncements, for further details on the adoption of this standard. We use the equity method of accounting for our investments in entities for which we exercise significant influence, but do not have the ability to exercise control. These entities are not VIEs. The factors considered in determining that we do not have the ability to exercise control include ownership of voting interests and participatory rights of investors.

Earnings Per Common Share of 23

Earnings Per Common Share of MAA (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Common Share of MAA [Abstract]
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]	Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. All outstanding unvested restricted share awards contain rights to non-forfeitable dividends and participate in undistributed earnings with common shareholders and, accordingly, are considered participating securities that are included in the two-class method of computing basic earnings per share. Both the unvested restricted shares and other potentially dilutive common shares, and the related impact to earnings, are considered when calculating earnings per share on a diluted basis with our diluted earnings per share being the more dilutive of the treasury stock or two-class methods. OP Units are included in dilutive earnings per share calculations when they are dilutive to earnings per share. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 , MAA's basic earnings per share was computed using the two-class method, and MAA's diluted earnings per share was computed using the more dilutive of the treasury stock method or two-class method, as presented below: (dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 Shares Outstanding Weighted average common shares - basic 75,277 75,168 75,263 75,157 Weighted average partnership units outstanding — (1) — (1) — (1) — (1) Effect of dilutive securities — (2) — (2) 239 — (2) Weighted average common shares - diluted 75,277 75,168 75,502 75,157 Calculation of Earnings per Share - basic Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,486 ) (7,574 ) (4,881 ) (10,984 ) Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares (134 ) (337 ) (237 ) (446 ) Income from continuing operations available for common shareholders, adjusted $ 45,010 $ 135,962 $ 88,320 $ 197,120 Weighted average common shares - basic 75,277 75,168 75,263 75,157 Earnings per share - basic $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 Calculation of Earnings per Share - diluted Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,486 ) (1) (7,574 ) (1) (4,881 ) (1) (10,987 ) (1) Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares (134 ) (2) (337 ) (2) — (446 ) (2) Income from continuing operations available for common shareholders, adjusted $ 45,010 $ 135,962 $ 88,557 $ 197,117 Weighted average common shares - diluted 75,277 75,168 75,502 75,157 Earnings per share - diluted $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 (1) For both the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 , 4.2 million operating partnership units and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculations as they are not dilutive. (2) For the three months ended June 30, 2016 and for both the three and six months ended June 30, 2015 , 0.2 million potentially dilutive securities and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculations as they are not dilutive.

Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP (

Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Unit, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	Basic earnings per OP Unit is computed by dividing net income available for common unitholders by the weighted average number of OP Units outstanding during the period. All outstanding unvested restricted unit awards contain rights to non-forfeitable distributions and participate in undistributed earnings with common unitholders and, accordingly, are considered participating securities that are included in the two-class method of computing basic earnings per OP unit. Diluted earnings per OP Unit reflects the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue OP Units were exercised or converted into OP Units. A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted earnings per unit computations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 is presented below: (dollars and units in thousands, except per unit amounts) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 Units Outstanding Weighted average OP Units - basic 79,436 79,356 79,424 79,346 Effect of dilutive securities — (1) — (1) 239 — (1) Weighted average OP Units - diluted 79,436 79,356 79,663 79,346 Calculation of Earnings per Unit - basic Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted common units (134 ) (337 ) (237 ) (446 ) Income from continuing operations available for common unitholders, adjusted $ 47,496 $ 143,536 $ 93,201 $ 208,104 Weighted average OP Units - basic 79,436 79,356 79,424 79,346 Earnings per unit - basic $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 Calculation of Earnings per Unit - diluted Income from continuing operations $ 47,630 $ 143,873 $ 93,438 $ 208,550 Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted common units (134 ) (1) (337 ) (1) — (446 ) (1) Income from continuing operations available for common unitholders, adjusted $ 47,496 $ 143,536 $ 93,438 $ 208,104 Weighted average OP Units - diluted 79,436 79,356 79,663 79,346 Earnings per OP Unit - diluted $ 0.60 $ 1.81 $ 1.17 $ 2.62 (1) For the three months ended June 30, 2016 and for both the three and six months ended June 30, 2015 , 0.2 million potentially dilutive securities and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per unit calculations as they are not dilutive.

MAA Equity (Tables)

MAA Equity (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
MAA Equity [Abstract]
Shareholders' Equity [Table Text Block]	Total equity and its components for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in thousands, except per share and per unit data): Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. Shareholders' Equity Common Stock Amount Additional Paid-In Capital Accumulated Distributions in Excess of Net Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity EQUITY BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2015 $ 753 $ 3,627,074 $ (634,141 ) $ (1,589 ) $ 165,726 $ 3,157,823 Net income — — 88,557 — 4,881 93,438 Other comprehensive loss - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — — (2,561 ) (141 ) (2,702 ) Issuance and registration of common shares 1 185 — — — 186 Shares repurchased and retired — (1,742 ) — — — (1,742 ) Shares issued in exchange for OP Units — 158 — — (158 ) — Shares issued in exchange from redeemable stock — 123 — — — 123 Redeemable stock fair market value adjustment — — (1,518 ) — — (1,518 ) Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership — (87 ) — — 87 — Amortization of unearned compensation — 4,383 — — — 4,383 Dividends on common stock ($1.64 per share) — — (123,852 ) — — (123,852 ) Dividends on noncontrolling interest OP Units ($1.64 per OP Unit) — — — — (6,820 ) (6,820 ) EQUITY BALANCE JUNE 30, 2016 $ 754 $ 3,630,094 $ (670,954 ) $ (4,150 ) $ 163,575 $ 3,119,319	Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. Shareholders' Equity Common Stock Amount Additional Paid-In Capital Accumulated Distributions in Excess of Net Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity EQUITY BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2014 $ 752 $ 3,619,270 $ (729,086 ) $ (412 ) $ 161,287 $ 3,051,811 Net income — — 197,566 — 10,984 208,550 Other comprehensive income - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — — 1,364 76 1,440 Issuance and registration of common shares 2 182 — — — 184 Shares repurchased and retired — (945 ) — — — (945 ) Exercise of stock options — 420 — — 420 Shares issued in exchange for OP Units — 184 — — (184 ) — Redeemable stock fair market value adjustment — — 173 — — 173 Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership — 45 — — (45 ) — Amortization of unearned compensation — 3,167 — — — 3,167 Dividends on common stock ($1.54 per share) — — (116,066 ) — — (116,066 ) Dividends on noncontrolling interest OP Units ($1.54 per OP Unit) — — — — (6,449 ) (6,449 ) EQUITY BALANCE JUNE 30, 2015 $ 754 $ 3,622,323 $ (647,413 ) $ 952 $ 165,669 $ 3,142,285

MAALP Capital (Tables)

MAALP Capital (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
MAALP Capital [Abstract]
Partners' Capital [Table Text Block]	Total capital and its components for the six-month periods ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in thousands, except per unit data): Mid-America Apartments, L.P. Unitholders Limited Partner General Partner Accumulated Total Partnership Capital CAPITAL BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2015 $ 165,726 $ 2,993,696 $ (1,618 ) $ 3,157,804 Net income 4,881 88,557 — 93,438 Other comprehensive loss - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — (2,702 ) (2,702 ) Issuance of OP Units — 186 — 186 OP Units repurchased and retired — (1,742 ) — (1,742 ) General partner OP Units issued in exchange for limited partner units (158 ) 158 — — OP Units issued in exchange for redeemable units — 123 — 123 Redeemable OP Units fair market value adjustment — (1,518 ) — (1,518 ) Adjustment for limited partners' capital at redemption value (54 ) 54 — — Amortization of unearned compensation — 4,383 — 4,383 Distributions ($1.64 per OP Unit) (6,820 ) (123,852 ) — (130,672 ) CAPITAL BALANCE JUNE 30, 2016 $ 163,575 $ 2,960,045 $ (4,320 ) $ 3,119,300	Mid-America Apartments, L.P. Unitholders Limited Partner General Partner Accumulated Total Partnership Capital CAPITAL BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2014 $ 161,310 $ 2,890,858 $ (376 ) $ 3,051,792 Net income 10,984 197,566 — 208,550 Other comprehensive income - derivative instruments (cash flow hedges) — — 1,440 1,440 Issuance of OP Units — 184 — 184 OP Units repurchased and retired — (945 ) — (945 ) Exercise of OP Unit options 420 — 420 General partner OP Units issued in exchange for limited partner units (184 ) 184 — — Redeemable OP Units fair market value adjustment — 173 — 173 Adjustment for limited partners' capital at redemption value (45 ) 45 — — Amortization of unearned compensation — 3,167 — 3,167 Distributions ($1.54 per OP Unit) (6,449 ) (116,066 ) — (122,515 ) CAPITAL BALANCE JUNE 30, 2015 $ 165,616 $ 2,975,586 $ 1,064 $ 3,142,266

Notes Payable (Tables)

Notes Payable (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Debt Structure [Table Text Block]	ng Debt The following table summarizes our indebtedness at June 30, 2016 , (dollars in thousands): Borrowed Balance Effective Rate Average Contract Maturity Fixed Rate Secured Debt Individual property mortgages $ 975,330 4.0 % 8/22/2019 Fannie Mae conventional credit facility 50,000 4.7 % 3/31/2017 Total fixed rate secured debt $ 1,025,330 4.0 % 7/11/2019 Variable Rate Secured Debt (1) Fannie Mae conventional credit facility 190,000 1.1 % 8/26/2017 Total variable rate secured debt $ 190,000 1.1 % 8/26/2017 Fair market value adjustments and debt issuance costs 27,868 Total Secured Debt $ 1,243,198 3.6 % 3/26/2019 Unsecured Debt Variable rate credit facility $ 180,000 1.5 % 4/15/2020 Term loan fixed with swaps 550,000 3.1 % 11/10/2017 Fixed rate bonds 1,535,246 4.2 % 9/16/2023 Fair market value adjustments, debt issuance costs and discounts (19,019 ) Total Unsecured Debt $ 2,246,227 3.7 % 1/10/2022 Total Outstanding Debt $ 3,489,425 3.7 % 1/5/2021 (1) Includes capped ba

Derivatives and Hedging Activ28

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Outstanding Interest Rate Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk	As of June 30, 2016 , we had the following outstanding interest rate derivatives that were designated as cash flow hedges of interest rate risk: Interest Rate Derivative Number of Instruments Notional Amount Interest Rate Caps 3 $ 75,000,000 Interest Rate Swaps 7 $ 550,000,000
Effect of Derivative Instruments on Consolidated Statement of Operations	Tabular Disclosure of the Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statements of Operations The table below presents the effect of our derivative financial instruments on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 . Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 (dollars in thousands) Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships Gain or (Loss) Gain or (Loss) Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Interest Expense (Ineffective Three months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 Interest rate contracts $ (1,314 ) $ 1,804 $ (1,131 ) $ (1,791 ) $ (120 ) $ (12 ) Six months ended June 30, Interest rate contracts $ (5,019 ) $ (2,543 ) $ (2,317 ) $ (3,983 ) $ (163 ) $ (73 ) Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Three months ended June 30, 2016 2015 Interest rate contracts $ — $ — Six months ended June 30, Interest rate contracts $ — $ (3 )
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	Other Comprehensive Income MAA's other comprehensive income consists entirely of gains and losses attributable to the effective portion of our cash flow hedges. The chart below shows the change in the balance for the six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 (dollars in thousands): Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component Affected Line Item in the Consolidated Statements Of Operations Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedges For the six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 Beginning balance $ (1,589 ) $ (412 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (5,019 ) (2,543 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (interest rate contracts) Interest expense 2,317 3,983 Net current-period other comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest 141 (76 ) Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income attributable to MAA (2,561 ) 1,364 Ending balance $ (4,150 ) $ 952

Fair Value Disclosure of Fina29

Fair Value Disclosure of Financial Instruments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	The table below presents a summary of the fair value measurements for each major category of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and the location within the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , aggregated by the level in the fair value hierarchy within which those measurements fall. Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis at June 30, 2016 (dollars in thousands) Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Balance Sheet Location Quoted Prices in Significant Significant (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Assets Interest rate contracts Other assets $ — $ 1 $ — $ 1 Liabilities Interest rate contracts Fair market value of interest rate swaps $ — $ 11,760 $ — $ 11,760 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis at December 31, 2015 (dollars in thousands) Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Balance Sheet Location Quoted Prices in Significant Significant (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Total Assets Interest rate contracts Other assets $ — $ 6 $ — $ 6 Liabilities Interest rate contracts Fair market value of interest rate swaps $ — $ 10,358 $ — $ 10,358

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016
Notes To Financial Statements [Abstract]
Revenues and NOI for Reportable Segment	Revenues and NOI for each reportable segment for the three- and six- month periods ended June 30, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in thousands): Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2016 2015 2016 2015 Revenues: Large Market Same Store $ 160,983 $ 153,068 $ 319,704 $ 302,894 Secondary Market Same Store 84,232 81,820 167,825 161,739 Non-Same Store and Other 27,021 24,003 53,723 52,810 Total operating revenues $ 272,236 $ 258,891 $ 541,252 $ 517,443 NOI: Large Market Same Store $ 99,619 $ 93,325 $ 197,698 $ 184,695 Secondary Market Same Store 52,523 50,579 105,696 100,488 Non-Same Store and Other 17,139 14,131 34,022 30,755 Total NOI 169,281 158,035 337,416 315,938 Depreciation and amortization (75,742 ) (74,396 ) (150,870 ) (147,508 ) Acquisition expense (421 ) (1,159 ) (1,134 ) (1,499 ) Property management expense (8,310 ) (6,986 ) (17,313 ) (15,478 ) General and administrative expense (7,014 ) (6,657 ) (13,596 ) (13,224 ) Interest and other non-property income (expense) 62 29 94 (180 ) Interest expense (32,039 ) (30,433 ) (64,250 ) (61,281 ) (Loss) gain on debt extinguishment/modification — (3 ) 3 (3,379 ) Gain on sale of depreciable real estate assets 68 105,182 823 135,410 Net casualty gain after insurance and other settlement proceeds 1,760 510 813 490 Income tax expense (457 ) (398 ) (745 ) (907 ) Gain on sale of non-depreciable real estate assets 543 172 2,170 172 (Loss) gain from real estate joint ventures (101 ) (23 ) 27 (4 ) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (2,486 ) (7,574 ) (4,881 ) (10,984 ) Net income available for MAA common shareholders $ 45,144 $ 136,299 $ 88,557 $ 197,566
Assets for Reportable Segment	Assets for each reportable segment as of June 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , were as follows (dollars in thousands): June 30, 2016 December 31, 2015 Assets: Large Market Same Store $ 3,713,096 $ 3,768,455 Secondary Market Same Store 1,639,419 1,661,956 Non-Same Store and Other 1,461,441 1,344,833 Corporate assets 55,425 72,537 Total assets $ 6,869,381 $ 6,847,781 The decrease in the Large and Secondary Market Same Store categories and the increases in the Non-Same Store category as of June 30, 2016, as compared to December 31, 2015, is due to properties identified for disposition in 2016 being removed from the Same Store categories.

Consolidation and Basis of Pres

Consolidation and Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) ft² in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)shares	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)ft²PropertyapartmentunitsStatesCommunitiesshares	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)shares
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
General Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding | shares	75,375,027	75,524,086	75,375,027
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest		94.80%	94.70%
Number of owned or owned interests of apartment communities | Property		256
Number of apartments included in a community | apartmentunits		80,300
Number of states in which apartment units are located | States		15
Percentage Of Ownership Interests		100.00%
Maximum [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Percentage Of Ownership Interests		100.00%
Development Properties [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of owned or owned interests of apartment communities | Communities		4
Number of units under development community | Property		628
Development Properties [Member] | Expected Costs [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Development and capital improvements in progress		$ 96,900
Development Properties [Member] | Costs Incurred to Date [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Development and capital improvements in progress		$ 49,400
Retail
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of owned or owned interests of apartment communities | Property		6
Square Footage of Real Estate Property | ft²		194
Interest Expense
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment	$ 900		$ 1,800
Fair Market Value Adjustment and Debt Issuance Cost [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment			$ 1,800
Secured Debt [Member] | $750 million unsecured revolving credit facility [Member] | Fair Market Value Adjustment and Debt Issuance Cost [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount		$ (19,019)

Earnings Per Common Share of 32

Earnings Per Common Share of MAA (Details) - Parent Company [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
		Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted average common shares - basic		75,277	75,168	75,263	75,157
Weighted average partnership units outstanding	[1]	0	0	0	0
Effect of dilutive securities	[2]	0	0	239	0
Weighted average common shares - diluted		75,277	75,168	75,502	75,157
Calculation of Basic Earnings per Share [Member]
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Income from continuing operations		$ 47,630	$ 143,873	$ 93,438	$ 208,550
Income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests		(2,486)	(7,574)	(4,881)	(10,984)
Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares		(134)	(337)	(237)	(446)
Income from continuing operations available for common shareholders, adjusted		$ 45,010	$ 135,962	$ 88,320	$ 197,120
Earnings per share - basic		$ 0.60	$ 1.81	$ 1.17	$ 2.62
Calculation of Diluted Earnings per Share [Member]
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Income from continuing operations		$ 47,630	$ 143,873	$ 93,438	$ 208,550
Income from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests	[1]	(2,486)	(7,574)	(4,881)	(10,987)
Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares	[2]	(134)	(337)	0	(446)
Income from continuing operations available for common shareholders, adjusted		$ 45,010	$ 135,962	$ 88,557	$ 197,117
Earnings per share - diluted		$ 0.60	$ 1.81	$ 1.17	$ 2.62
Limited Partnership Units [Member]
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount				4,200
Restricted Stock [Member]
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount		200
[1]	(1) For both the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and 2015, 4.2 million operating partnership units and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculations as they are not dilutive.
[2]	(2) For the three months ended June 30, 2016 and for both the three and six months ended June 30, 2015, 0.2 million potentially dilutive securities and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculations as they are not dilutive.

Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP S

Earnings Per OP Unit of MAALP Statement (details) - Limited Partner [Member] - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
		Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Weighted average common units - basic		79,436	79,356	79,424	79,346
Effect of dilutive securities	[1]	0	0	239	0
Weighted average common shares - diluted		79,436	79,356	79,663	79,346
Calculation of Basic Earnings Per Unit [Member]
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Income from continuing operations		$ 47,630	$ 143,873	$ 93,438	$ 208,550
Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares		(134)	(337)	(237)	(446)
Income from continuing operations available for common unitholders, adjusted		$ 47,496	$ 143,536	$ 93,201	$ 208,104
Earnings per unit - basic		$ 0.60	$ 1.81	$ 1.17	$ 2.62
Calculation of Diluted Earnings Per Unit [Member]
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Income from continuing operations		$ 47,630	$ 143,873	$ 93,438	$ 208,550
Income from continuing operations allocated to unvested restricted shares	[1]	(134)	(337)	0	(446)
Income from continuing operations available for common unitholders, adjusted		$ 47,496	$ 143,536	$ 93,438	$ 208,104
Earnings per unit - diluted		$ 0.60	$ 1.81	$ 1.17	$ 2.62
Restricted Stock [Member]
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount		200
[1]	(1) For the three months ended June 30, 2016 and for both the three and six months ended June 30, 2015, 0.2 million potentially dilutive securities and their related income are not included in the diluted earnings per unit calculations as they are not dilutive.

MAA Equity (Details)

MAA Equity (Details) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Common Stock [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 753,000	$ 752,000
Issuance and registration of common shares	1,000	2,000
Shares repurchased and retired	0	0
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised		0
Shares issued in exchange for units	0	0
Ending Balance	754,000	754,000
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	3,627,074,000	3,619,270,000
Issuance and registration of common shares	185,000	182,000
Shares repurchased and retired	(1,742,000)	(945,000)
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised		420,000
Shares issued in exchange for units	158,000	184,000
Shares issued in exchange for redeemable stock	123,000
Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership	(87,000)	45,000
Amortization of unearned compensation	4,383,000	3,167,000
Ending Balance	3,630,094,000	3,622,323,000
Accumulated Distributions in Excess of Net Income [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(634,141,000)	(729,086,000)
Net income attributable to MAA	88,557,000	197,566,000
Redeemable stock fair market value	(1,518,000)	173,000
Dividends on common stock	(123,852,000)	(116,066,000)
Ending Balance	(670,954,000)	(647,413,000)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(1,589,000)	(412,000)
Other comprehensive (loss) income - derivatives insturments (cash flow hedges)	(2,561,000)	1,364,000
Ending Balance	(4,150,000)	952,000
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	165,726,000	161,287,000
Net Income Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	4,881,000	10,984,000
Other comprehensive (loss) income - derivatives insturments (cash flow hedges)	(141,000)	76,000
Shares issued in exchange for units	(158,000)	(184,000)
Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership	87,000	(45,000)
Dividends on common stock	0	0
Dividends on noncontrolling interest units	(6,820,000)	(6,449,000)
Ending Balance	163,575,000	165,669,000
Stockholders' Equity, Total [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	3,157,823,000	3,051,811,000
Net Income Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	93,438,000	208,550,000
Other comprehensive (loss) income - derivatives insturments (cash flow hedges)	(2,702,000)	1,440,000
Issuance and registration of common shares	186,000	184,000
Shares repurchased and retired	(1,742,000)	(945,000)
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised		420,000
Shares issued in exchange for units	0	0
Shares issued in exchange for redeemable stock	123,000
Redeemable stock fair market value	(1,518,000)	173,000
Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership	0	0
Amortization of unearned compensation	4,383,000	3,167,000
Dividends on common stock	(123,852,000)	(116,066,000)
Dividends on noncontrolling interest units	(6,820,000)	(6,449,000)
Ending Balance	$ 3,119,319,000	3,142,285,000
Parent Company [Member] | Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Issuance and registration of common shares		$ 0

MAA Equity Parenthetical (Detai

MAA Equity Parenthetical (Details) - Parent Company [Member] - $ / shares	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Equity Disclosure [Line Items]
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 0.82	$ 0.77	$ 1.64	$ 1.54
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit			$ 1.64	$ 1.54

MAALP Capital (Details)

MAALP Capital (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Limited Partners' Capital Account [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 165,726	$ 161,310
Net Income Allocated to Limited Partners	4,881	10,984
General partner units issued in exchange for limited partner units	(158)	(184)
Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership	(54)	(45)
Distributions	(6,820)	(6,449)
Ending Balance	163,575	165,616
General Partners' Capital Account [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	2,993,696	2,890,858
Net Income Allocated to General Partners	88,557	197,566
Issuance of units	186	184
Units repurchased and retired	(1,742)	(945)
Units Issued During Period, Value, Unit Options Exercised		420
General partner units issued in exchange for limited partner units	158	184
Units issued in exchange for redeemable units	123
Redeemable stock fair market value	(1,518)	173
Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership	54	45
Amortization of unearned compensation	4,383	3,167
Distributions	(123,852)	(116,066)
Ending Balance	2,960,045	2,975,586
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(1,618)	(376)
Other comprehensive (loss) income - derivatives insturments (cash flow hedges)	(2,702)	1,440
Ending Balance	(4,320)	1,064
Total Partnership Capital [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	3,157,804	3,051,792
Net Income Available for Common Unitholders	93,438	208,550
Other comprehensive (loss) income - derivatives insturments (cash flow hedges)	(2,702)	1,440
Issuance of units	186	184
Units repurchased and retired	(1,742)	(945)
Units Issued During Period, Value, Unit Options Exercised		420
General partner units issued in exchange for limited partner units	0	0
Units issued in exchange for redeemable units	123
Redeemable stock fair market value	(1,518)	173
Adjustment for noncontrolling interest ownership in operating partnership	0	0
Amortization of unearned compensation	4,383	3,167
Distributions	(130,672)	(122,515)
Ending Balance	$ 3,119,300	$ 3,142,266

MAALP Capital Parenthetical (De

MAALP Capital Parenthetical (Details) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Limited Partner [Member]
Capital Disclosure [Line Items]
Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit	$ 0.82	$ 0.77	$ 1.64	$ 1.54

Notes Payable - Additional Info

Notes Payable - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable	$ 3,489,425	$ 3,430,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.70%	3.70%
Conventional Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	1.10%
Long-term Debt	$ 115,000
Capped Conventional Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	1.10%
Long-term Debt	$ 75,000
Mortgages [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Notes Payable	3,600
Other Than Conventional Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term Debt	$ 1,000,000
Debt Instrument Average Interest Rate	4.00%
Fixed Rate Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unsecured notes payable	$ 2,100,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Fixed Interest, Percentage Rate	3.90%
Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable	$ 1,243,198
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.60%
Secured Debt [Member] | Federal National Mortgage Association Certificates and Obligations (FNMA) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.17%
Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.62%
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 240,000
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 240,000
Debt Renewal Period	90 days
Secured Debt [Member] | Federal National Mortgage Association Certificates and Obligations (FNMA) [Member] | Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.10%
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 190,000
Secured Debt [Member] | Federal National Mortgage Association Certificates and Obligations (FNMA) [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.70%
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 50,000
Secured Debt [Member] | Mortgages [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.00%
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 975,330
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes Payable	$ 2,246,227
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.70%
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Wells Fargo Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 250,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | US Bank Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 150,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | $500 million unsecured revolving credit faciltiy [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.47%
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount	$ 2,800
Unsecured Debt [Member] | $500 million unsecured revolving credit faciltiy [Member] | Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.50%
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 180,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | KeyBank Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	150,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Public Income Notes [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	1,200,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Private Placement [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	310,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | 2011 and 2012 Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	310,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | $750 million unsecured revolving credit facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	180,000
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	750,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 550,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.10%
Minimum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description	P5Y
Minimum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | $500 million unsecured revolving credit faciltiy [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.85%
Minimum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | KeyBank Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.90%
Minimum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | Wells Fargo and US Bank Term Loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.90%
Maximum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description	P12Y
Maximum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | $500 million unsecured revolving credit faciltiy [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.55%
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$ 1,500,000
Maximum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | KeyBank Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.75%
Maximum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | Wells Fargo and US Bank Term Loans [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.90%
Farmington Village [Member] | Secured Debt [Member] | Mortgages [Member] | Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	$ 13,400
Colonial Grand at Wilmington [Member] | Secured Debt [Member] | Mortgages [Member] | Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Repayments of Debt	$ 20,200

Debt Structure (Detail)

Debt Structure (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Outstanding Debt	$ 3,489,425	$ 3,430,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.70%	3.70%
Contract Maturity	Jan. 5, 2021
Secured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Outstanding Debt	$ 1,243,198
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.60%
Contract Maturity	Mar. 26, 2019
Secured Debt [Member] | Mortgages [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate	$ 975,330
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.00%
Contract Maturity	Aug. 22, 2019
Secured Debt [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Outstanding Debt	$ 1,025,330
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.00%
Contract Maturity	Jul. 11, 2019
Secured Debt [Member] | Variable Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Outstanding Debt	$ 190,000
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.10%
Contract Maturity	Aug. 26, 2017
Secured Debt [Member] | Federal National Mortgage Association Certificates and Obligations (FNMA) [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage	0.62%
Debt Renewal Period	90 days
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 240,000
Secured Debt [Member] | Federal National Mortgage Association Certificates and Obligations (FNMA) [Member] | Variable Rate Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.10%
Contract Maturity	Aug. 26, 2017
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 190,000
Secured Debt [Member] | Federal National Mortgage Association Certificates and Obligations (FNMA) [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.70%
Contract Maturity	Mar. 31, 2017
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 50,000
Secured Debt [Member] | Federal National Mortgage Association Certificates and Obligations (FNMA) [Member] | Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.10%
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 190,000
Secured Debt [Member] | $750 million unsecured revolving credit facility [Member] | Fair Market Value Adjustment and Debt Issuance Cost [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	(19,019)
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	27,868
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total Outstanding Debt	$ 2,246,227
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.70%
Contract Maturity	Jan. 10, 2022
Unsecured Debt [Member] | $500 million unsecured revolving credit faciltiy [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.47%
Unsecured Debt [Member] | $500 million unsecured revolving credit faciltiy [Member] | Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	1.50%
Contract Maturity	Apr. 15, 2020
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 180,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | $750 million unsecured revolving credit facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding	$ 180,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Term Loan [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	3.10%
Contract Maturity	Nov. 10, 2017
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 550,000
Unsecured Debt [Member] | Senior Notes [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage	4.20%
Contract Maturity	Sep. 16, 2023
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$ 1,535,246
Maximum [Member] | Unsecured Debt [Member] | Fixed Rate Debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Description	7.2

Derivatives and Hedging Activ40

Derivatives and Hedging Activities - Additional Information (Detail)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)Contract	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)Contract	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)
Credit Default Option [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit Risk Related Contingent Features Termination Value	$ 12,500,000		$ 12,500,000
Termination
Derivative [Line Items]
Fair Value of Credit Risk Derivatives	11,800,000		11,800,000
Net Liability Position [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Credit Risk Related Contingent Features Termination Value	$ 12,500,000		$ 12,500,000
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Caps
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held | Contract	3		3
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 75,000,000		$ 75,000,000
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, Number of Instruments Held | Contract	7		7
Derivative, Notional Amount	$ 550,000,000		$ 550,000,000
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Expense
Derivative [Line Items]
Loss on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness	$ (120,000)	$ (12,000)	(163,000)	$ (73,000)
Change in fair value of interest rate derivatives included in AOCI and expected to be reclassified in the next 12 months			$ 3,700,000

Fair Values of Derivative Instr

Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (Detail) - Parent Company [Member] - USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Asset Derivatives, Fair Value	$ 1,000	$ 6,000
Derivative financial instruments, Liability	$ 11,760,000	$ 10,358,000

Effect of Derivative Instrument

Effect of Derivative Instruments on Consolidated Statement of Operations (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Expense
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	$ (1,131)	$ (1,791)	$ 2,317	$ 3,983
(Loss) Gain on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net	(120)	(12)	(163)	(73)
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest rate contracts
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of (Loss) or Gain Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)	(1,314)	1,804	(5,019)	(2,543)
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Expense
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, (Loss) Gain Recognized in Income, Net	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0	$ (3)

Derivatives and Hedging Activ43

Derivatives and Hedging Activities Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - Parent Company [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Beginning Balance			$ (1,589)	$ (412)
Amount of (Loss) or Gain Recognized in OCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)			(5,019)	(2,543)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax	$ 1,131	$ 1,791	2,317	3,983
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest			141	(76)
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income , Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent			(2,561)	1,364
Ending Balance	$ (4,150)	$ 952	$ (4,150)	$ 952

Fair Value Disclosure of Fina44

Fair Value Disclosure of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fixed Rate Debt
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Notes Payable, fair value	$ 2,760	$ 2,710
Notes Payable Excluding Interest Rate Swaps and Cap Agreements	2,570	2,610
Variable Rate Debt
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Notes Payable, fair value	910	817.7
Notes Payable Excluding Interest Rate Swaps and Cap Agreements	$ 920	$ 815
Minimum [Member] | Conventional Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Renewal Period	30 days
Maximum [Member] | Conventional Variable Rate Debt [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Debt Renewal Period	90 days

Assets and Liabilities Measured

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Detail) - Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments - assets	$ 1	$ 6
Derivative financial instruments - liabilities	11,760	10,358
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments - assets	0	0
Derivative financial instruments - liabilities	0	0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments - assets	1	6
Derivative financial instruments - liabilities	11,760	10,358
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Derivative financial instruments - assets	0	0
Derivative financial instruments - liabilities	$ 0	$ 0

Shareholders' Equity of MAA - A

Shareholders' Equity of MAA - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement [Line Items]
Common stock, shares outstanding	75,524,086	75,375,027
Total common shares and operating partnership units outstanding	79,683,089	79,561,396
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	18,988	11,755
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Common Shares Issuable Upon Conversion Of Convertible Stock	4,159,003	4,186,369
Parent Company [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Common stock, shares outstanding	75,505,025		75,408,571
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised	$ 0	$ 420
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Common stock shares, outstanding option	39,084	58,112
Equity Option [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues		7,342

Partners' Capital of Mid-Amer47

Partners' Capital of Mid-America Apartments, L.P. (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015
Schedule of Capital Structure [Line Items]
Operating partnership units outstanding	79,683,089	79,561,396
General Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding	75,524,086	75,375,027
Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest	94.80%	94.70%
Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding	4,159,003	4,186,369
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Schedule of Capital Structure [Line Items]
Common Shares Issuable Upon Conversion Of Convertible Stock	4,159,003	4,186,369
Limited Partners' Capital Account	$ 442.5		$ 304.8
Redeemable Capital Shares Par Or Stated Value Per Share	$ 106.40		$ 72.81

Legal Proceedings (Details)

Legal Proceedings (Details) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)apartmentunits	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of Units in Real Estate Property | apartmentunits	80,300
Loss Contingency Accrual | $	$ 9.9	$ 13.5

Segment Information - Additiona

Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail) individual in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016PropertyStatesindividual
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of owned or owned interests of apartment communities | Property	256
Number of states in which apartment units are located | States	15
Period properties owned and stabilized	12 months
Occupancy Level for Stabilized Communities	90.00%
Period Properties Stabilized	90 days
Large Market Same Store [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Apartment Community Population	1
Percentage of Total Public Multifamily REIT Units	1.00%
Period properties owned and stabilized	12 months
Secondary Market Same Store [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Apartment Community Population	1
Percentage of Total Public Multifamily REIT Units	1.00%
Period properties owned and stabilized	12 months
Non Same Store And Other [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of Total Public Multifamily REIT Units	1.00%

Revenues and NOI for Reportable

Revenues and NOI for Reportable Segment (Detail) - Parent Company [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Segment Information
Total operating revenues	$ 272,236	$ 258,891	$ 541,252	$ 517,443
Net Operating Income	169,281	158,035	337,416	315,938
Depreciation and amortization	(75,742)	(74,396)	(150,870)	(147,508)
Acquisition expense	(421)	(1,159)	(1,134)	(1,499)
Property management expense	(8,310)	(6,986)	(17,313)	(15,478)
General and administrative expense	(7,014)	(6,657)	(13,596)	(13,224)
Interest and other non-property (expense) income	62	29	94	(180)
Interest expense	(32,039)	(30,433)	(64,250)	(61,281)
Loss on debt extinguishment	0	(3)	3	(3,379)
Gain on sale of depreciable real estate assets excluded from discontinued operations	68	105,182	823	135,410
Net casualty loss after insurance and other settlement proceeds	1,760	510	813	490
Income tax expense	(457)	(398)	(745)	(907)
Gain on sale of non-depreciable real estate assets	543	172	2,170	172
Gain (loss) from real estate joint ventures	(101)	(23)	27	(4)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(2,486)	(7,574)	(4,881)	(10,984)
Net income attributable to MAA	45,144	136,299	88,557	197,566
Large Market Same Store
Segment Information
Total property revenues	160,983	153,068	319,704	302,894
Net Operating Income	99,619	93,325	197,698	184,695
Secondary Market Same Store
Segment Information
Total property revenues	84,232	81,820	167,825	161,739
Net Operating Income	52,523	50,579	105,696	100,488
Non-Same Store and Other
Segment Information
Total property revenues	27,021	24,003	53,723	52,810
Net Operating Income	$ 17,139	$ 14,131	$ 34,022	$ 30,755

Assets for Reportable Segment (

Assets for Reportable Segment (Detail) - Parent Company [Member] - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 6,869,381	$ 6,847,781
Large Market Same Store
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Total assets	3,713,096	3,768,455
Secondary Market Same Store
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Total assets	1,639,419	1,661,956
Non-Same Store and Other
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Total assets	1,461,441	1,344,833
Corporate assets
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Total assets	$ 55,425	$ 72,537

Real Estate Acquisitions and 52

Real Estate Acquisitions and Dispositions - Additional Information (Detail)	Jun. 30, 2016ft²aapartmentunitsApartments
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Number of Units in Real Estate Property | apartmentunits	80,300
Cobblestone Square [Member]
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Number of Units in Real Estate Property | Apartments	314
McKinney Land [Member]
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Square Footage of Real Estate Property | ft²	30
Colonial Promenade Nord du Lac (Covington, LA) [Member]
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Square Footage of Real Estate Property	295,447
Area of Land	25
Residences at Fountainhead [Member]
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Number of Units in Real Estate Property | Apartments	322
Colonial Grand at Heathrow [Member]
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Area of Land	11
Land Title Building [Member]
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Area of Land	30,000
Colonial Promenade Huntsville [Member]
Business Acquisitions and Dispositions [Line Items]
Area of Land	1

Subsequent Events - Additional

Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Detail)	Jun. 30, 2016a
Colonial Grand at Heathrow [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Area of Land	11