| Cover Page | Apr. 30, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000007332 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | SOUTHWESTERN ENERGY CO |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-08246 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 71-0205415 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 10000 Energy Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Spring |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77389 |
| City Area Code | 832 |
| Local Phone Number | 796-1000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, Par Value $0.01 |
| Trading Symbol | SWN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
