| Cover | Nov. 13, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 13, 2019 |
| Entity File Number | 001-08359 |
| Entity Registrant Name | NEW JERSEY RESOURCES CORP |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000356309 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 22-2376465 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | NJ |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1415 Wyckoff Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Wall |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NJ |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 07719 |
| City Area Code | 732 |
| Local Phone Number | 938-1480 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock - $2.50 par value |
| Trading Symbol | NJR |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
