| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 13, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | MURPHY OIL CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000717423 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 13, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-8590 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 71-0361522 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 300 Peach Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | P.O. Box 7000 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | El Dorado |
| Entity Address, State or Province | AR |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 71730-7000 |
| City Area Code | 870 |
| Local Phone Number | 862-6411 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $1.00 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | MUR |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
