Astoria Financial 10-K 27 Feb 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Billions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 17, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	ASTORIA FINANCIAL CORP
Entity Central Index Key	910322
Trading Symbol	AF
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		99,932,720
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float			$1.30

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_FIN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS:
Cash and due from banks	$143,185	$121,950
Available-for-sale securities:
Encumbered	110,784	105,234
Unencumbered	273,575	296,456
Total available-for-sale securities	384,359	401,690
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value of $2,131,371 and $1,811,122, respectively:
Encumbered	1,147,991	1,150,315
Unencumbered	985,813	699,211
Total held-to-maturity securities	2,133,804	1,849,526
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York stock, at cost	140,754	152,207
Loans held-for-sale, net	7,640	7,375
Loans receivable	11,957,448	12,442,066
Allowance for loan losses	-111,600	-139,000
Loans receivable, net	11,845,848	12,303,066
Mortgage servicing rights, net	11,401	12,800
Accrued interest receivable	36,628	37,926
Premises and equipment, net	111,622	112,530
Goodwill	185,151	185,151
Bank owned life insurance	430,768	423,375
Real estate owned, net	35,723	42,636
Other assets	173,138	143,490
Total assets	15,640,021	15,793,722
LIABILITIES:
Deposits	9,504,909	9,855,310
Borrowings, net	4,187,691	4,137,161
Mortgage escrow funds	115,400	109,458
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	251,951	172,280
Total liabilities	14,059,951	14,274,209
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value; 5,000,000 shares authorized: Series C (150,000 shares authorized; and 135,000 shares issued and outstanding)	129,796	129,796
Common stock, $0.01 par value (200,000,000 shares authorized; 166,494,888 shares issued; and 99,940,399 and 98,841,960 shares outstanding, respectively)	1,665	1,665
Additional paid-in capital	897,049	894,297
Retained earnings	1,992,833	1,930,026
Treasury stock (66,554,489 and 67,652,928 shares, at cost, respectively)	-1,375,322	-1,398,021
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-65,951	-38,250
Total stockholders’ equity	1,580,070	1,519,513
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$15,640,021	$15,793,722

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_FIN1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	2,131,371	1,811,122
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	1	1
Preferred stock, shares authorized	5,000,000	5,000,000
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	0.01	0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	166,494,888	166,494,888
Common stock, shares outstanding	99,940,399	98,841,960
Treasury stock, shares	66,554,489	67,652,928
Series C Preferred Stock
Preferred stock, shares authorized	150,000	150,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	135,000	135,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	135,000	135,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_INC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Interest income:
Residential mortgage loans	$241,417	$289,790	$372,478
Multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans	178,795	163,352	149,694
Consumer and other loans	8,532	8,797	9,258
Mortgage-backed and other securities	57,065	49,563	61,757
Repurchase agreements and interest-earning cash accounts	321	263	338
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York stock	6,220	6,665	6,984
Total interest income	492,350	518,430	600,509
Interest expense:
Deposits	51,355	62,617	98,021
Borrowings	98,707	113,911	154,219
Total interest expense	150,062	176,528	252,240
Net interest income	342,288	341,902	348,269
Provision for loan losses (credited) charged to operations	-9,469	19,601	40,400
Net interest income after provision for loan losses	351,757	322,301	307,869
Non-interest income:
Customer service fees	35,710	36,786	39,520
Other loan fees	2,493	2,230	2,640
Gain on sales of securities	141	2,057	8,477
Mortgage banking income, net	3,326	13,241	6,820
Income from bank owned life insurance	8,476	8,404	9,439
Other	4,702	6,854	6,339
Total non-interest income	54,848	69,572	73,235
General and administrative:
Compensation and benefits	138,177	133,689	139,140
Occupancy, equipment and systems	71,948	70,711	67,406
Federal deposit insurance premium	26,179	37,188	47,363
Advertising	12,450	6,400	6,392
Extinguishment of debt	0	4,266	1,212
Other	35,656	35,277	38,620
Total non-interest expense	284,410	287,531	300,133
Income before income tax expense	122,195	104,342	80,971
Income tax expense	26,279	37,749	27,880
Net income	95,916	66,593	53,091
Preferred stock dividends	8,775	7,214	0
Net income available to common shareholders	$87,141	$59,379	$53,091
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.88	$0.60	$0.55
Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.88	$0.60	$0.55
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	98,384,443	97,121,497	95,455,344
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	98,384,443	97,121,497	95,455,344

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$95,916	$66,593	$53,091
Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale:
Net unrealized holding gain (loss) on securities arising during the year	9,143	-10,485	-1,320
Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities included in net income	-91	-1,332	-5,490
Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale	9,052	-11,817	-6,810
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	-37,467	44,180	9,143
Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	591	2,335	3,527
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	-36,876	46,515	12,670
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
Prior service cost adjustment arising during the year	0	0	-3,538
Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	123	142	98
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	123	142	-3,440
Reclassification adjustment for loss on cash flow hedge included in net income	0	0	151
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	-27,701	34,840	2,571
Comprehensive income	$68,215	$101,433	$55,662

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CHA

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Series C Preferred Stock	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Treasury Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Unallocated Common Stock Held by ESOP
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balance at beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2011	$1,251,198	$0	$1,665	$875,395	$1,861,592	($1,404,311)	($75,661)	($7,482)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income	53,091				53,091
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	2,571						2,571
Dividends on common stock	-24,104				-24,104
Restricted stock grants				-1,541	-1,703	3,244
Forfeitures of restricted stock				3,918	1,770	-5,688
Stock-based compensation	5,166			4,790	376
Net tax benefit (shortfall) excess from stock-based compensation	-4,123			-4,123
Allocation of ESOP stock	10,190			6,250				3,940
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2012	1,293,989	0	1,665	884,689	1,891,022	-1,406,755	-73,090	-3,542
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income	66,593				66,593
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	34,840						34,840
Issuance of preferred stock, series C	129,796	129,796
Dividends on preferred stock	-7,214				-7,214
Dividends on common stock	-15,667				-15,667
Restricted stock grants				-5,200	-5,878	11,078
Forfeitures of restricted stock				1,234	1,110	-2,344
Stock-based compensation	6,969			6,909	60
Net tax benefit (shortfall) excess from stock-based compensation	-800			-800
Allocation of ESOP stock	11,007			7,465				3,542
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2013	1,519,513	129,796	1,665	894,297	1,930,026	-1,398,021	-38,250	0
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income	95,916				95,916
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	-27,701						-27,701
Dividends on preferred stock	-8,775				-8,775
Dividends on common stock	-15,868				-15,868
Sales of treasury stock	8,121				-4,595	12,716
Restricted stock grants				-6,472	-4,160	10,632
Forfeitures of restricted stock				374	275	-649
Stock-based compensation	8,672			8,658	14
Net tax benefit (shortfall) excess from stock-based compensation	192			192
Balance at end of period at Dec. 31, 2014	$1,580,070	$129,796	$1,665	$897,049	$1,992,833	($1,375,322)	($65,951)	$0

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CHA1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Dividends on common stock (in dollars per share)	$0.16	$0.16	$0.25
Dividends on preferred stock (in dollars per share)	$65	$53.44
Sale of treasury stock, in shares	615,340
Restricted stock grants, in shares	514,507	536,110	157,000
Forfeitures of restricted stock, shares	31,408	113,468	275,397
Series C Preferred Stock
Issuance of preferred stock, series C, shares		135,000

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$95,916	$66,593	$53,091
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Net amortization on loans	11,738	20,511	26,101
Net amortization on securities and borrowings	9,021	15,794	16,762
Net provision for loan and real estate losses (credited) charged to operations	-8,113	20,899	43,314
Depreciation and amortization	11,872	11,566	11,861
Net gain on sales of loans and securities	-1,012	-9,059	-17,333
Mortgage servicing rights amortization and valuation allowance adjustments, net	2,522	-2,172	4,840
Stock-based compensation and allocation of ESOP stock	8,672	17,976	15,356
Originations of loans held-for-sale	-105,176	-256,048	-380,356
Proceeds from sales and principal repayments of loans held-for-sale	104,947	325,088	324,520
Decrease in accrued interest receivable	1,298	3,762	4,840
Bank owned life insurance income and insurance proceeds received, net	-7,393	-5,220	-8,518
(Increase) decrease in other assets	-10,407	51,231	101,170
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other liabilities	20,191	-28,257	-8,235
Net cash provided by operating activities	134,076	232,664	187,413
Cash flows from investing activities:
Originations of loans receivable	-1,560,090	-2,228,450	-3,272,511
Loan purchases through third parties	-196,283	-407,532	-942,873
Principal payments on loans receivable	1,985,246	3,302,519	4,135,995
Proceeds from sales of delinquent and non-performing loans	181,295	19,511	23,220
Purchases of securities held-to-maturity	-630,366	-850,716	-533,687
Purchases of securities available-for-sale	-25,479	-221,080	-256,901
Principal payments on securities held-to-maturity	338,691	687,902	948,994
Principal payments on securities available-for-sale	40,906	95,687	201,147
Proceeds from sales of securities available-for-sale	14,447	41,640	60,318
Net redemptions (purchases) of Federal Home Loan Bank of New York stock	11,453	18,987	-39,527
Redemption of Astoria Capital Trust I common securities	0	3,866	0
Proceeds from sales of real estate owned, net	49,089	35,949	59,892
Purchases of premises and equipment, net of proceeds from sales	-10,961	-9,621	-6,435
Net cash provided by investing activities	197,948	488,662	377,632
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net decrease in deposits	-350,401	-588,648	-801,656
Net increase in borrowings with original terms of three months or less	200,000	317,000	448,000
Proceeds from borrowings with original terms greater than three months	0	0	950,000
Repayments of borrowings with original terms greater than three months	-150,000	-553,866	-1,144,000
Cash payments for debt issuance costs	0	0	-2,653
Net increase (decrease) in mortgage escrow funds	5,942	-3,643	2,260
Proceeds from sales of treasury stock	8,121	0	0
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock	0	135,000	0
Cash payments for preferred stock issuance costs	0	-5,204	0
Cash dividends paid to stockholders	-24,643	-20,688	-24,104
Net tax benefit excess (shortfall) from stock-based compensation	192	-800	-4,123
Net cash used in financing activities	-310,789	-720,849	-576,276
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	21,235	477	-11,231
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	121,950	121,473	132,704
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	143,185	121,950	121,473
Supplemental disclosures:
Interest paid	150,026	180,871	258,503
Income taxes paid	21,658	28,820	6,002
Additions to real estate owned	43,532	51,360	43,270
Loans transferred to held-for-sale	$190,594	$16,605	$6,501

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	The following significant accounting and reporting policies of Astoria Financial Corporation and subsidiaries conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and are used in preparing and presenting these consolidated financial statements.
	(a)            Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Astoria Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Astoria Bank and its subsidiaries, referred to as Astoria Bank, and AF Insurance Agency, Inc.  AF Insurance Agency, Inc. is a licensed life insurance agency which, through contractual agreements with various third parties, makes insurance products available primarily to the customers of Astoria Bank.  As used in this annual report, “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Astoria Financial Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries.  All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	In addition to Astoria Bank and AF Insurance Agency, Inc., we had another subsidiary, Astoria Capital Trust I, which was not consolidated with Astoria Financial Corporation for financial reporting purposes.  On May 14, 2013, we filed a Certificate of Cancellation of Certificate of Trust of Astoria Capital Trust I with the Delaware Secretary of State.  See Note 7 for further discussion of Astoria Capital Trust I.
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues, expenses and other comprehensive income/loss during the reporting periods.  The estimate of our allowance for loan losses, the valuation of mortgage servicing rights, or MSR, judgments regarding goodwill and securities impairment and the estimates related to our income taxes and pension plans and other postretirement benefits are particularly critical because they are important to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations, involve a higher degree of complexity and require management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often require assumptions and estimates about highly uncertain matters.  Actual results may differ from our assumptions, estimates and judgments.  Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts to conform to the current year presentation.
	(b)    Cash and Cash Equivalents
	For the purpose of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks and repurchase agreements with original maturities of three months or less.  We may purchase securities under agreements to resell (repurchase agreements).  These agreements represent short-term loans and are reflected as an asset in the consolidated statements of financial condition. There were no repurchase agreements outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Astoria Bank is required by the Federal Reserve System to maintain cash reserves equal to a percentage of certain deposits.  The reserve requirement totaled $42.2 million at December 31, 2014 and $37.7 million at December 31, 2013.
	(c)    Securities
	Securities are classified as held-to-maturity, available-for-sale or trading.  Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of acquisition.  Our securities available-for-sale portfolio is carried at estimated fair value on a recurring basis, with any unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income/loss in stockholders’ equity.  Debt securities which we have the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity and are carried at amortized cost.  Premiums and discounts are recognized as adjustments to interest income using the interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity, adjusted for prepayments.  Gains and losses on the sale of all securities are determined using the specific identification method and are reflected in earnings when realized.  For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we did not maintain a trading securities portfolio.  We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if a decline in the fair value of any security below its cost basis is other-than-temporary.  Our evaluation of other-than-temporary impairment, or OTTI, considers the duration and severity of the impairment, our assessments of the reason for the decline in value, the likelihood of a near-term recovery and our intent and ability to not sell the securities.  If such decline is deemed other-than-temporary, the security is written down to a new cost basis and the resulting loss is charged to earnings as a component of non-interest income, except for the amount of the total OTTI for a debt security that does not represent credit losses which is recognized in other comprehensive income/loss, net of applicable taxes.
	(d)    Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Stock
	As a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, or FHLB-NY, we are required to acquire and hold shares of the FHLB-NY Class B stock.  Our holding requirement varies based on our activities, primarily our outstanding borrowings, with the FHLB-NY.  Our investment in FHLB-NY stock is carried at cost.  We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of our FHLB-NY stock to determine if any impairment exists.
	(e)               Loans Held-for-Sale
	Loans held-for-sale, net, includes 15 and 30 year fixed rate one-to-four family, or residential, mortgage loans originated for sale that conform to government-sponsored enterprise, or GSE, guidelines (conforming loans), as well as certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans.
	Generally, we originate 15 and 30 year conforming fixed rate residential mortgage loans for sale to various GSEs or other investors on a servicing released or retained basis.  The sale of such loans is generally arranged through a master commitment on a mandatory delivery or best efforts basis.  Loans held-for-sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value, as determined on an aggregate basis.  Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings.  Premiums and discounts and origination fees and costs on loans held-for-sale are deferred and recognized as a component of the gain or loss on sale.  Gains and losses on sales of loans held-for-sale are included in mortgage banking income, net, recognized on settlement dates and are determined by the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the loans.  These transactions are accounted for as sales based on our satisfaction of the criteria for such accounting which provide that, as transferor, we have surrendered control over the loans.
	Upon our decision to sell certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans held in portfolio, we transfer them to held-for-sale at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs.  Reductions in carrying values are reflected as a write-down of the recorded investment in the loans resulting in a new cost basis, with credit-related losses charged to the allowance for loan losses.  Such loans are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date.  Lower of cost or market write-downs, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings.  Increases in the fair value of non-performing loans held-for-sale are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowances.  Lower of cost or market write-downs and recoveries are included in other non-interest income along with gains and losses recognized on sales of such loans.  Our delinquent and non-performing loans are sold without recourse, except as discussed in Note 9, and we do not provide financing.
	(f)            Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses
	Loans receivable are carried at the unpaid principal balances, net of unamortized premiums and discounts and deferred loan origination costs and fees, which are recognized as yield adjustments using the interest method.  We amortize these amounts over the contractual life of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments.  Our loans receivable represent our financing receivables.
	We discontinue accruing interest on loans when they become 90 days past due as to their payment due date and at the time a loan is deemed a troubled debt restructuring, or TDR.  We may also discontinue accruing interest on certain other loans because of deterioration in financial or other conditions of the borrower.  In addition, we reverse all previously accrued and uncollected interest through a charge to interest income.  While loans are in non-accrual status, interest due is monitored and, presuming we deem the remaining recorded investment in the loan to be fully collectible, income is recognized only to the extent cash is received until a return to accrual status is warranted.  In some circumstances, we may continue to accrue interest on mortgage loans past due 90 days or more, primarily as to their maturity date but not their interest due.  In other cases, we may defer recognition of income until the principal balance has been recovered.
	We may agree, in certain instances, to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan.  In cases where such modifications represent a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty, the modification is considered a TDR.  Modifications as a result of a TDR may include, but are not limited to, interest rate modifications, payment deferrals, restructuring of payments to interest-only from amortizing and/or extensions of maturity dates.  Modifications which result in insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls are generally not classified as a TDR.  Residential mortgage loans discharged in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing, or bankruptcy loans, are also reported as loans modified in a TDR as relief granted by a court is also viewed as a concession to the borrower in the loan agreement.  Loans modified in a TDR are individually classified as impaired loans and are initially placed on non-accrual status regardless of their delinquency status.  Loans modified in a TDR remain in non-accrual status until we determine that future collection of principal and interest is reasonably assured.  Where we have agreed to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan, we require the borrower to demonstrate performance according to the restructured terms, generally for a period of at least six months, prior to returning the loan to accrual status.  Loans modified in a TDR which have been returned to accrual status are excluded from non-performing loans but remain classified as impaired.
	We establish and maintain an allowance for loan losses based on our evaluation of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio.  Loan charge-offs in the period the loans, or portions thereof, are deemed uncollectible reduce the allowance for loan losses.  Recoveries of amounts previously charged-off increase the allowance for loan losses in the period they are received. The allowance is adjusted through provisions for loan losses charged or credited to operations to increase or decrease the allowance, based on a comprehensive analysis of our loan portfolio.  We evaluate the adequacy of the allowance on a quarterly basis.  The allowance is comprised of both valuation allowances related to individual loans and general valuation allowances, although the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio.  In estimating specific allocations of the allowance, we review loans deemed to be impaired and measure impairment losses based on either the fair value of the collateral, the present value of expected future cash flows, or the observable market price of the loan.  A loan is considered impaired when, based upon current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due, including principal and interest, according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.  When an impairment analysis indicates the need for a specific allocation of the allowance on an individual loan, such allocation would be established sufficient to cover probable incurred losses at the evaluation date based on the facts and circumstances of the loan.  When available information confirms that specific loans, or portions thereof, are uncollectible, these amounts are charged-off against the allowance for loan losses. For loans individually classified as impaired, the portion of the recorded investment in the loan in excess of the present value of the discounted cash flows of a modified loan or, for collateral dependent loans, the portion of the recorded investment in the loan in excess of the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated selling costs, is charged-off.
	Residential mortgage and home equity and other consumer loan portfolios are generally reviewed collectively by delinquency and net loss trends. However, our residential mortgage loans are individually evaluated for impairment at 180 days past due and earlier in certain instances, including for loans to borrowers who have filed for bankruptcy, and, to the extent the loans remain delinquent, annually thereafter.  Updated estimates of collateral values on residential loans are obtained primarily through automated valuation models.
	Estimated losses for loans that are not individually deemed to be impaired are determined on a loan pool basis using our historical loss experience and various other qualitative factors and comprise our general valuation allowances.  General valuation allowances represent loss allowances that have been established to recognize the inherent risks associated with our lending activities which, unlike individual valuation allowances, have not been allocated to particular loans.  The determination of the adequacy of the general valuation allowances takes into consideration a variety of factors.
	We segment our residential mortgage loan portfolio by interest-only and amortizing loans, full documentation and reduced documentation loans and origination time periods and analyze our historical loss experience and delinquency levels and trends of these segments.  We analyze multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans by portfolio, geographic location and origination time periods.  We analyze our consumer and other loan portfolio by home equity lines of credit, commercial and industrial loans and other consumer loans and perform similar historical loss analyses.  In our analysis of non-performing loans, we consider our aggregate historical loss experience with respect to the ultimate disposition of the underlying collateral along with the migration of delinquent loans based on the portfolio segments noted above.  These analyses and the resulting loss rates are used as an integral part of our judgment in developing estimated loss percentages to apply to the loan portfolio segments. We monitor credit risk on interest-only hybrid adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, loans that were underwritten at the initial note rate, which may have been a discounted rate, in the same manner that we monitor credit risk on all interest-only hybrid ARM loans.  We monitor interest rate reset dates of our loan portfolio, in the aggregate, and the current interest rate environment and consider the impact, if any, on borrowers’ ability to continue to make timely principal and interest payments in determining our allowance for loan losses.  We also consider the size, composition, risk profile and delinquency levels of our loan portfolio, as well as our credit administration and asset management procedures.  We monitor property value trends in our market areas by reference to various industry and market reports, economic releases and surveys, and our general and specific knowledge of the real estate markets in which we lend, in order to determine what impact, if any, such trends may have on the level of our general valuation allowances.  In addition, we evaluate and consider the impact that current and anticipated economic and market conditions may have on the loan portfolio and known and inherent risks in the portfolio.  We update our analyses quarterly and refine our evaluations as experience provides clearer guidance, our product offerings change and as economic conditions evolve.
	We analyze our historical loss experience over 12, 15, 18 and 24 month periods. The loss history used in calculating our quantitative allowance coverage percentages varies based on loan type.  Also, for a particular loan type we may not have sufficient loss history to develop a reasonable estimate of loss and consider our loss experience for other, similar loan types and may evaluate those losses over a longer period than two years.  Additionally, multi-family and commercial real estate loss experience may be adjusted based on the composition of the losses (loan sales, short sales and partial charge-offs).  Our evaluation of loss experience factors considers trends in such factors over the prior two years for substantially all of the loan portfolio, with the exception of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans originated after 2010, for which our evaluation includes detailed modeling techniques.  These modeling techniques utilize data inputs for each loan in the portfolio, including credit facility terms and performance to date, property details and borrower financial performance data. The model also incorporates real estate market data from an established real estate market database company to forecast future performance of the properties, and includes a loan loss predictive model based on studies of defaulted commercial real estate loans. The model then generates a probability of default, loss given default and ultimately an estimated loss for each loan quarterly over the remaining life of the loan. The appropriate timeframe from which to assign an estimated loss percentage to the pool of loans is assessed by management. We update our historical loss analyses quarterly and evaluate the need to modify our quantitative allowances as a result of our updated charge-off and loss analyses.
	We consider qualitative factors with the purpose of assessing the adequacy of the overall allowance for loan losses as well as the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by loan category.  The qualitative factors we consider generally include, but are not limited to, changes in (1) lending policies and procedures, (2) economic and business conditions and developments that affect collectibility of our loan portfolio, (3) the nature and volume of our loan portfolio and in the terms of loans, (4) the experience, ability and depth of lending management and other staff, (5) the volume and severity of past due, non-accrual and adversely classified loans, (6) the quality of the loan review system, (7) the value of underlying collateral, (8) the existence or effect of any credit concentrations and (9) external factors such as competition and legal or regulatory requirements.  In addition to the nine qualitative factors noted, we also review certain analytical information such as our coverage ratios and peer analysis.
	Allowance adequacy calculations are adjusted quarterly, based on the results of our quantitative and qualitative analyses, to reflect our current estimates of the amount of probable losses inherent in our loan portfolio in determining our allowance for loan losses.  Allocations of the allowance to each loan category are adjusted quarterly to reflect probable inherent losses using the same quantitative and qualitative analyses used in connection with the overall allowance adequacy calculations.  The portion of the allowance allocated to each loan category does not represent the total available to absorb losses which may occur within the loan category, since the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio. The balance of our allowance for loan losses represents management’s best estimate of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio at December 31, 2014 and 2013.  Actual results could differ from our estimates as a result of changes in economic or market conditions.  Changes in estimates could result in a material change in the allowance for loan losses.  While we believe that the allowance for loan losses has been established and maintained at levels that reflect the risks inherent in our loan portfolio, future adjustments may be necessary if portfolio performance or economic or market conditions differ substantially from the conditions that existed at the time of the initial determinations.
	(g)            Mortgage Servicing Rights
	We recognize as separate assets the rights to service mortgage loans.  The right to service loans for others is generally obtained through the sale of residential mortgage loans with servicing retained.  The initial asset recognized for originated MSR is measured at fair value.  The fair value of MSR is estimated by reference to current market values of similar loans sold servicing released.  MSR are amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income.  We apply the amortization method for measurements of our MSR.  MSR are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date.  MSR impairment, if any, is recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings.  Increases in the fair value of impaired MSR are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowance.  Fees earned for servicing loans are reported as income, as a component of mortgage banking income, net, in the consolidated statements of income, when the related mortgage loan payments are collected.
	We assess impairment of our MSR based on the estimated fair value of those rights on a stratum-by-stratum basis with any impairment recognized through a valuation allowance for each impaired stratum.  We stratify our MSR by underlying loan type (primarily fixed and adjustable) and interest rate.  Individual allowances for each stratum are then adjusted in subsequent periods to reflect changes in the measurement of impairment.
	We outsource the servicing of our residential mortgage loan portfolio, including our portfolio of mortgage loans serviced for other investors, to an unrelated third party under a sub-servicing agreement.  Fees paid under the sub-servicing agreement are reported as a component of occupancy, equipment and systems expense in the consolidated statements of income.
	(h)               Premises and Equipment
	Land is carried at cost.  Buildings and improvements, leasehold improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization totaling $203.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $194.1 million at December 31, 2013.  Buildings and improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets.  Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the term of the related leases or the estimated useful lives of the improved property.
	(i)               Goodwill
	Goodwill is presumed to have an indefinite useful life and is tested, at least annually, for impairment at the reporting unit level.  If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, further evaluation is not necessary.  However, if the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, further evaluation is required to compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying amount to determine if a write-down of goodwill is required.  Impairment exists when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.
	For purposes of our goodwill impairment testing, we have identified a single reporting unit.  We consider the quoted market price of our common stock on our impairment testing date as an initial indicator of estimating the fair value of our reporting unit.  We also consider our average stock price, both before and after our impairment test date, as well as market-based control premiums in determining the estimated fair value of our reporting unit.  In addition to our internal goodwill impairment analysis, we periodically obtain a goodwill impairment analysis from an independent third party valuation firm.  The independent third party utilizes multiple valuation approaches including comparable transactions, control premium, public market peers and discounted cash flow.  Management reviews the assumptions and inputs used in the third party analysis for reasonableness. At December 31, 2014, the carrying amount of our goodwill totaled $185.2 million.  As of September 30, 2014, we performed our annual goodwill impairment test internally and obtained an independent third party analysis and concluded there was no goodwill impairment.  We would test our goodwill for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount.  No events have occurred and no circumstances have changed since our annual impairment test date that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount.  The identification of additional reporting units, the use of other valuation techniques or changes to the input assumptions used in our analysis or the analysis by our third party valuation firm could result in materially different evaluations of impairment.
	(j)    Bank Owned Life Insurance
	Bank owned life insurance, or BOLI, is carried at the amount that could be realized under our life insurance contract as of the date of the statement of financial condition and is classified as a non-interest-earning asset.  Increases in the carrying value are recorded as non-interest income and insurance proceeds received are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value.  The carrying value consisted of a cash surrender value of $402.1 million and a claims stabilization reserve of $28.7 million at December 31, 2014 and a cash surrender value of $395.8 million, a claims stabilization reserve of $27.6 million and deferred acquisition costs of $1,000 at December 31, 2013.  Repayment of the claims stabilization reserve (funds transferred from the cash surrender value to provide for future death benefit payments) and the deferred acquisition costs (costs incurred by the insurance carrier for the policy issuance) are guaranteed by the insurance carrier provided that certain conditions are met at the date of a contract surrender.  We satisfied these conditions at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	(k)     Real Estate Owned
	Real estate owned, or REO, represents real estate acquired through foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure and is initially recorded at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs.  Write-downs required at the time of acquisition are charged to the allowance for loan losses.  Thereafter, we maintain a valuation allowance, representing decreases in the properties’ estimated fair value, through charges to earnings.  Such charges are included in other non-interest expense along with any additional property maintenance and protection expenses incurred in owning the property.  REO is reported net of a valuation allowance of $839,000 at December 31, 2014 and $834,000 at December 31, 2013.
	(l)   Reverse Repurchase Agreements (Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase)
	We enter into sales of securities under agreements to repurchase with selected dealers and banks (reverse repurchase agreements).  Such agreements are accounted for as secured financing transactions since we maintain effective control over the transferred securities and the transfer meets the other criteria for such accounting.  Obligations to repurchase securities sold are reflected as a liability in our consolidated statements of financial condition.  The securities underlying the agreements are delivered to a custodial account for the benefit of the dealer or bank with whom each transaction is executed.  The dealers or banks, who may sell, loan or otherwise dispose of such securities to other parties in the normal course of their operations, agree to resell us the same securities at the maturities of the agreements.  We retain the right of substitution of collateral throughout the terms of the agreements.  The securities underlying the agreements are classified as encumbered securities in our consolidated statements of financial condition.
	(m)    Derivative Financial Instruments
	As part of our interest rate risk management, we may utilize, from time-to-time, derivative financial instruments which are recorded as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value.  Changes in the fair values of derivatives are reported in our results of operations or other comprehensive income/loss depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting.  We may enter into derivative financial instruments with no hedging designation.  Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized currently in our results of operations, generally in other non-interest expense.  We do not use derivatives for trading purposes.
	(n)    Income Taxes
	We use the asset and liability method to provide for income taxes on all transactions recorded in the consolidated financial statements.  Income tax expense consists of income taxes that are currently payable and deferred income taxes.  Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates, applicable to future years, to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities and net operating loss carryforwards.  We assess our deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance if realization of a deferred tax asset is not considered to be more likely than not.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date.  Certain tax benefits attributable to stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units, including the tax benefit related to dividends paid on unvested restricted stock awards, are credited to additional paid-in-capital.  We maintain a reserve related to certain tax positions and strategies that management believes contain an element of uncertainty and evaluate each of our tax positions and strategies to determine whether the reserve continues to be appropriate.  Accruals of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recognized in income tax expense.
	(o)            Earnings Per Common Share
	Basic earnings per common share, or EPS, is computed pursuant to the two-class method by dividing net income available to common shareholders less dividends paid on participating securities (unvested shares of restricted common stock) and any undistributed earnings attributable to participating securities by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the year.  The weighted average common shares outstanding includes the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding less the weighted average number of unvested shares of restricted common stock and, through December 31, 2013, unallocated common shares held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, or ESOP.  For EPS calculations, unallocated ESOP shares that had been committed to be released were considered outstanding.  ESOP shares that had not been committed to be released were excluded from outstanding shares on a weighted average basis for EPS calculations.  As of December 31, 2013, there were no remaining unallocated ESOP shares.
	Diluted EPS is computed using the same method as basic EPS, but includes the effect of dilutive potential common shares during the period, such as unexercised stock options and unvested restricted stock units, calculated using the treasury stock method.  However, unvested restricted stock units are excluded from the denominator for both the basic and diluted EPS computations until the performance conditions are satisfied.
	(p)            Employee Benefits
	Astoria Bank has a qualified, non-contributory defined benefit pension plan, or the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, covering employees meeting specified eligibility criteria.  Astoria Bank’s policy is to fund pension costs in accordance with the minimum funding requirement.  In addition, Astoria Bank has non-qualified and unfunded supplemental retirement plans covering certain officers and directors including the Astoria Bank Excess Benefit Plan and the Astoria Bank Supplemental Benefit Plan, or the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans, and the Astoria Bank Directors’ Retirement Plan, or the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan.  Effective April 30, 2012, the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans and the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan were amended to, among other things, change the manner in which benefits were computed for service through April 30, 2012 and to suspend accrual of additional benefits for all of the aforementioned plans effective April 30, 2012.  These amendments resulted in a significant reduction in net periodic cost for our defined benefit pension plans for periods subsequent to April 30, 2012.
	We also sponsor a health care plan that provides for postretirement medical and dental coverage to select individuals.  The costs of postretirement benefits are accrued during an employee’s active working career.
	We recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan, which is measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value and the benefit obligation at the measurement date, in other assets or other liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial condition.  Changes in the funded status are recognized through other comprehensive income/loss in the period in which the changes occur.
	Prior to January 1, 2014, we recorded compensation expense related to the ESOP at an amount equal to the shares allocated by the ESOP multiplied by the average fair value of our common stock during the year of allocation, plus the cash contributions made to participant accounts.  The difference between the fair value of shares for the period and the cost of the shares allocated by the ESOP was recorded as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital. As of December 31, 2013 all shares in the ESOP were allocated to participants and the plan was frozen. On April 1, 2014, the ESOP was merged into the Astoria Bank 401(k) Plan, or the 401(k) Plan, and all participant balances under the ESOP were transferred to participant accounts under the 401(k) Plan.
	(q)     Stock Incentive Plans
	We recognize the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of awards.  Stock-based compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period which is the earlier of the awards’ stated vesting date or the employees’ or non-employee directors’ retirement eligibility date for awards that have accelerated vesting provisions upon retirement.  For awards which have performance-based conditions, recognition of stock-based compensation expense begins when the achievement of the performance conditions is probable.  The fair value of restricted common stock and restricted stock unit awards are based on the closing market value of our common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on the grant date, reduced by the present value of the expected dividend stream during the vesting period for restricted stock unit awards using a risk-free interest rate.
	(r)     Segment Reporting
	As a community-oriented financial institution, substantially all of our operations involve the delivery of loan and deposit products to customers. We make operating decisions and assess performance based on an ongoing review of these community banking operations, which constitute our only operating segment for financial reporting purposes.
	(s)     Impact of Recent Accounting Standards and Interpretations
	In January 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2014-04, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40) Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure,” and in August 2014 the FASB issued ASU 2014-14, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40) - Classification of Certain Government-Guaranteed Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure.” ASU 2014-04 applies to all creditors who obtain physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan in satisfaction of a receivable. The amendments in ASU 2014-04 clarify when an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs and requires disclosure of both (1) the amount of foreclosed residential real estate property held by a creditor and (2) the recorded investment in consumer mortgage loans collateralized by residential real estate property that are in the process of foreclosure according to local requirements of the applicable jurisdiction. ASU 2014-14 applies to creditors that hold government-guaranteed mortgage loans. The amendments in ASU 2014-14 require that a mortgage loan be derecognized and that a separate other receivable be recognized upon foreclosure if (1) the loan has a government guarantee that is not separable from the loan before foreclosure, (2) at the time of foreclosure, the creditor has the intent to convey the real estate property to the guarantor and make a claim on the guarantee, and the creditor has the ability to recover under that claim and (3) at the time of foreclosure, any amount of the claim that is determined on the basis of the fair value of the real estate is fixed. Effective July 1, 2014 we adopted the guidance in ASU 2014-04 and effective October 1, 2014 we adopted the guidance in ASU 2014-14 using the prospective transition method. Our adoption of the guidance in ASU 2014-04 and ASU 2014-14 did not have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
	In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-01, “Investments – Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323) Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects,” which applies to all reporting entities that invest in flow-through limited liability entities that manage or invest in affordable housing projects that qualify for the low-income housing tax credit.  Prior to the effective date of ASU 2014-01, a reporting entity that invested in a qualified affordable housing project may have elected to account for that investment using the effective yield method if all of the conditions were met.  For those investments that were not accounted for using the effective yield method, they were required to be accounted for under either the equity method or the cost method.  Certain of the conditions required to be met to use the effective yield method were restrictive and thus prevented many such investments from qualifying for the use of the effective yield method.  The amendments in this update modify the conditions that a reporting entity must meet to be eligible to use a method other than the equity or cost methods to account for qualified affordable housing project investments. If the modified conditions are met, the amendments permit an entity to use the proportional amortization method to amortize the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the amount of tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognize the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit).  Additionally, the amendments introduce new recurring disclosures about all investments in qualified affordable housing projects irrespective of the method used to account for the investments.  The amendments in ASU 2014-01 are effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2014.  Our adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2015 did not have an impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-11, “Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) — Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures” which applies to all entities that enter into repurchase-to-maturity transactions or repurchase financings (reverse repurchase agreements or securities sold under agreements to repurchase).  The amendments in this update change the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions and linked repurchase financings (a transfer of a financial asset executed contemporaneously with a repurchase agreement with the same counterparty) to secured borrowing accounting, which is consistent with the accounting for other repurchase agreements.  In addition, the amendments in this update require an entity to disclose information on transfers accounted for as sales in transactions that are economically similar to repurchase agreements and provide disclosures to increase transparency about the types of collateral pledged in repurchase agreements and similar transactions accounted for as secured borrowings.  The amendments in ASU 2014-11 are effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2014.  Early application for a public business entity is prohibited.  All of our repurchase agreements (reverse repurchase agreements) are accounted for as secured borrowings.  Therefore, our adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2015 did not have an impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, “Compensation — Stock Compensation (Topic 718) — Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period,” which applies to all entities that grant their employees share-based payments in which the terms of the award provide that a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the requisite service period.  The amendments in this update require that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition.  As such, the performance target should not be reflected in estimating the grant date fair value of the award.  The amendments in ASU 2014-12 are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015 and may be applied either prospectively to all awards granted or modified after the effective date, or retrospectively to all awards with performance targets that are outstanding as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented in the financial statements and to all new or modified awards thereafter.  Early adoption is permitted. The terms of our share-based payment awards currently do not provide that a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the requisite service period. Therefore, this guidance is not expected to have an impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Securities

Securities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Securities	Securities
	The following tables set forth the amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities available-for-sale and held-to-maturity at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
	(In Thousands)	Amortized		Gross				Gross						Estimated
		Cost		Unrealized				Unrealized						Fair
				Gains				Losses						Value
	Available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs (1)	$	266,946		$	3,608			$	(1,556	)			$	268,998
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	5,071			34				(1		)			5,104
	GSE pass-through certificates	12,919			640				(2		)			13,557
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	284,936			4,282				(1,559		)			287,659
	Obligations of GSEs	98,680			—				(1,982		)			96,698
	Fannie Mae stock	15			—				(13		)			2
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	383,631		$	4,282			$	(3,554	)			$	384,359
	Held-to-maturity:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	1,575,402		$	14,536			$	(14,041	)			$	1,575,897
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	2,482			31				(7		)			2,506
	GSE pass-through certificates	281,685			2,442				(3,877		)			280,250
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	1,859,569			17,009				(17,925		)			1,858,653
	Multi-family mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs	154,381			554				(590		)			154,345
	Obligations of GSEs	119,336			42				(1,523		)			117,855
	Other	518			—				—					518
	Total securities held-to-maturity	$	2,133,804		$	17,605			$	(20,038	)			$	2,131,371
	(1) Real estate mortgage investment conduits and collateralized mortgage obligations
		At December 31, 2013
	(In Thousands)	Amortized		Gross				Gross						Estimated
		Cost		Unrealized				Unrealized						Fair
				Gains				Losses						Value
	Available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	292,131		$	1,077			$	(7,134	)			$	286,074
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	7,516			57				(1		)			7,572
	GSE pass-through certificates	16,120			770				(2		)			16,888
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	315,767			1,904				(7,137		)			310,534
	Obligations of GSEs	98,675			—				(7,522		)			91,153
	Fannie Mae stock	15			—				(12		)			3
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	414,457		$	1,904			$	(14,671	)			$	401,690
	Held-to-maturity:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	1,474,506		$	12,877			$	(33,925	)			$	1,453,458
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	3,833			61				(10		)			3,884
	GSE pass-through certificates	282,473			85				(10,089		)			272,469
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	1,760,812			13,023				(44,024		)			1,729,811
	Obligations of GSEs	88,128			—				(7,403		)			80,725
	Other	586			—				—					586
	Total securities held-to-maturity	$	1,849,526		$	13,023			$	(51,427	)			$	1,811,122
	The following tables set forth the estimated fair values of securities with gross unrealized losses at the dates indicated, segregated between securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months and those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Less Than Twelve Months						Twelve Months or Longer								Total
	(In Thousands)	Estimated		Gross				Estimated				Gross				Estimated		Gross
		Fair Value		Unrealized				Fair Value				Unrealized				Fair Value		Unrealized
				Losses								Losses						Losses
	Available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	20,587		$	(159	)	$	75,444				$	(1,397	)	$	96,031		$	(1,556	)
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	—			—			96					(1		)	96			(1		)
	GSE pass-through certificates	53			(1		)	64					(1		)	117			(2		)
	Obligations of GSEs	24,586			(395		)	72,112					(1,587		)	96,698			(1,982		)
	Fannie Mae stock	—			—			2					(13		)	2			(13		)
	Total temporarily impaired securities	$	45,226		$	(555	)	$	147,718				$	(2,999	)	$	192,944		$	(3,554	)
	available-for-sale
Held-to-maturity:
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	121,861		$	(302	)	$	500,348				$	(13,739	)	$	622,209		$	(14,041	)
Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	—			—			294					(7		)	294			(7		)
GSE pass-through certificates	—			—			164,453					(3,877		)	164,453			(3,877		)
Multi-family mortgage backed securities:
GSE issuance REMICs	100,355			(590		)	—					—			100,355			(590		)
Obligations of GSEs	—			—			79,413					(1,523		)	79,413			(1,523		)
Total temporarily impaired securities	$	222,216		$	(892	)	$	744,508				$	(19,146	)	$	966,724		$	(20,038	)
held-to-maturity
	At December 31, 2013
	Less Than Twelve Months						Twelve Months or Longer								Total
(In Thousands)	Estimated		Gross				Estimated				Gross				Estimated		Gross
	Fair Value		Unrealized				Fair Value				Unrealized				Fair Value		Unrealized
			Losses								Losses						Losses
Available-for-sale:
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	243,149		$	(7,134	)	$	—				$	—		$	243,149		$	(7,134	)
Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	—			—			132					(1		)	132			(1		)
GSE pass-through certificates	172			(1		)	70					(1		)	242			(2		)
Obligations of GSEs	91,153			(7,522		)	—					—			91,153			(7,522		)
Fannie Mae stock	—			—			3					(12		)	3			(12		)
Total temporarily impaired securities	$	334,474		$	(14,657	)	$	205				$	(14	)	$	334,679		$	(14,671	)
available-for-sale
Held-to-maturity:
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	719,715		$	(25,611	)	$	151,581				$	(8,314	)	$	871,296		$	(33,925	)
Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	392			(10		)	—					—			392			(10		)
GSE pass-through certificates	230,795			(10,088		)	28					(1		)	230,823			(10,089		)
Obligations of GSEs	80,725			(7,403		)	—					—			80,725			(7,403		)
Total temporarily impaired securities	$	1,031,627		$	(43,112	)	$	151,609				$	(8,315	)	$	1,183,236		$	(51,427	)
held-to-maturity
Our securities portfolio is comprised primarily of fixed rate mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by a GSE as issuer.  Substantially all of our non-GSE issuance securities are investment grade securities and have performed similarly to our GSE issuance securities.  Credit quality concerns have not significantly impacted the performance of our non-GSE securities or our ability to obtain reliable prices.
We held 80 securities which had an unrealized loss at December 31, 2014 and 109 at December 31, 2013.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, substantially all of the securities in an unrealized loss position had a fixed interest rate and the cause of the temporary impairment was directly related to the change in interest rates.  We generally view changes in fair value caused by changes in interest rates as temporary, which is consistent with our experience.  None of the unrealized losses are related to credit losses.  Therefore, at December 31, 2014 and 2013, the impairments were deemed temporary based on (1) the direct relationship of the decline in fair value to movements in interest rates, (2) the estimated remaining life and high credit quality of the investments and (3) the fact that we had no intention to sell these securities and it was not more likely than not that we would be required to sell these securities before their anticipated recovery of the remaining amortized cost basis and we expected to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security.
Proceeds from sales of securities from the available-for-sale portfolio totaled $14.4 million, resulting in gross realized gains of $141,000, during the year ended December 31, 2014, $41.6 million, resulting in gross realized gains of $2.1 million, during the year ended December 31, 2013 and $60.3 million, resulting in gross realized gains of $8.5 million, during the year ended December 31, 2012.
At December 31, 2014, available-for-sale debt securities, excluding mortgage-backed securities, had an amortized cost of $98.7 million, an estimated fair value of $96.7 million and contractual maturities in 2021 and 2022.  At December 31, 2014, held-to-maturity debt securities, excluding mortgage-backed securities, had an amortized cost of $119.9 million, an estimated fair value of $118.4 million and contractual maturities in 2021 and 2023.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to prepay or call obligations with or without prepayment penalties.
At December 31, 2014, the amortized cost of callable securities in our portfolio totaled $218.0 million, of which $201.6 million are callable within one year and at various times thereafter.
The balance of accrued interest receivable for securities totaled $6.7 million at December 31, 2014 and $6.3 million at December 31, 2013.

Loans_HeldforSale

Loans Held-for-Sale	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Loans Receivable, Net [Abstract]
Loans Held-for-Sale	Loans Held-for-Sale
	Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net of valuation allowances, included in loans held-for-sale, net, totaled $153,000 at December 31, 2014 and $791,000 at December 31, 2013.  At December 31, 2014, we held-for-sale one non-performing multi-family mortgage loan. Substantially all of the non-performing loans held-for-sale at December 31, 2013 were multi-family mortgage loans.
	We sold certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans, primarily multi-family and commercial real estate loans, totaling $4.9 million, net of charge-offs of $517,000 during the year ended December 31, 2014, $19.4 million, net of charge-offs of $5.2 million, during the year ended December 31, 2013 and $22.0 million, net of charge-offs of $11.5 million, during the year ended December 31, 2012.  In addition, during the 2014 third quarter we sold a pool of non-performing residential mortgage loans, substantially all of which were 90 days or more past due, which were designated as held-for-sale at June 30, 2014. For additional information on this pool of loans, see Note 4.
	Net loss on sales of non-performing loans held-for-sale totaled $892,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014. Net gain on sales of non-performing loans held-for-sale totaled $122,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. There were no lower of cost or market write-downs on non-performing loans held-for-sale for the year ended December 31, 2014. We recorded net lower of cost or market write-downs on non-performing loans held-for-sale totaling $87,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $272,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses	Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses
	The following tables set forth the composition of our loans receivable portfolio, and an aging analysis by accruing and non-accrual loans, by segment and class at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Past Due
		30-59				60-89				90 Days				Total
	(In Thousands)	Days				Days				or More				Past Due				Current				Total
	Accruing loans:
	Mortgage loans (gross):
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only	$	13,943			$	7,332			$	—			$	21,275			$	804,880			$	826,155
	Full documentation amortizing	25,878				7,611				144				33,633				4,948,391				4,982,024
	Reduced documentation interest-only	18,490				2,584				—				21,074				547,350				568,424
	Reduced documentation amortizing	11,024				1,648				—				12,672				384,250				396,922
	Total residential	69,335				19,175				144				88,654				6,684,871				6,773,525
	Multi-family	3,646				2,222				1,790				7,658				3,893,539				3,901,197
	Commercial real estate	1,686				493				2,159				4,338				863,615				867,953
	Total mortgage loans	74,667				21,890				4,093				100,650				11,442,025				11,542,675
	Consumer and other loans (gross):
	Home equity and other consumer	2,430				962				—				3,392				175,121				178,513
	Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				64,815				64,815
	Total consumer and other loans	2,430				962				—				3,392				239,936				243,328
	Total accruing loans	$	77,097			$	22,852			$	4,093			$	104,042			$	11,681,961			$	11,786,003
	Non-accrual loans:
	Mortgage loans (gross):
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only	$	2,371			$	358			$	11,502			$	14,231			$	13,796			$	28,027
	Full documentation amortizing	204				238				14,211				14,653				7,016				21,669
	Reduced documentation interest-only	820				453				16,289				17,562				25,022				42,584
	Reduced documentation amortizing	596				1,066				2,843				4,505				3,226				7,731
	Total residential	3,991				2,115				44,845				50,951				49,060				100,011
	Multi-family	648				346				7,127				8,121				3,735				11,856
	Commercial real estate	790				—				729				1,519				4,293				5,812
	Total mortgage loans	5,429				2,461				52,701				60,591				57,088				117,679
	Consumer and other loans (gross):
	Home equity and other consumer	—				—				6,040				6,040				—				6,040
	Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				—				—
	Total consumer and other loans	—				—				6,040				6,040				—				6,040
	Total non-accrual loans	$	5,429			$	2,461			$	58,741			$	66,631			$	57,088			$	123,719
	Total loans:
	Mortgage loans (gross):
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only	$	16,314			$	7,690			$	11,502			$	35,506			$	818,676			$	854,182
	Full documentation amortizing	26,082				7,849				14,355				48,286				4,955,407				5,003,693
	Reduced documentation interest-only	19,310				3,037				16,289				38,636				572,372				611,008
	Reduced documentation amortizing	11,620				2,714				2,843				17,177				387,476				404,653
	Total residential	73,326				21,290				44,989				139,605				6,733,931				6,873,536
	Multi-family	4,294				2,568				8,917				15,779				3,897,274				3,913,053
	Commercial real estate	2,476				493				2,888				5,857				867,908				873,765
	Total mortgage loans	80,096				24,351				56,794				161,241				11,499,113				11,660,354
	Consumer and other loans (gross):
	Home equity and other consumer	2,430				962				6,040				9,432				175,121				184,553
	Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				64,815				64,815
	Total consumer and other loans	2,430				962				6,040				9,432				239,936				249,368
	Total loans	$	82,526			$	25,313			$	62,834			$	170,673			$	11,739,049			$	11,909,722
	Net unamortized premiums and
	deferred loan origination costs																					47,726
	Loans receivable																					11,957,448
	Allowance for loan losses																					(111,600		)
	Loans receivable, net																					$	11,845,848
		At December 31, 2013
		Past Due
		30-59				60-89				90 Days				Total
	(In Thousands)	Days				Days				or More				Past Due				Current				Total
	Accruing loans:
Mortgage loans (gross):
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only	$	27,291			$	5,220			$	—			$	32,511			$	1,249,462			$	1,281,973
Full documentation amortizing	31,189				7,415				151				38,755				5,325,944				5,364,699
Reduced documentation interest-only	22,635				5,208				—				27,843				693,660				721,503
Reduced documentation amortizing	8,993				2,311				—				11,304				352,322				363,626
Total residential	90,108				20,154				151				110,413				7,621,388				7,731,801
Multi-family	12,740				970				—				13,710				3,270,206				3,283,916
Commercial real estate	1,729				1,690				233				3,652				801,690				805,342
Total mortgage loans	104,577				22,814				384				127,775				11,693,284				11,821,059
Consumer and other loans (gross):
Home equity and other consumer	3,177				1,340				—				4,517				198,426				202,943
Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				30,758				30,758
Total consumer and other loans	3,177				1,340				—				4,517				229,184				233,701
Total accruing loans	$	107,754			$	24,154			$	384			$	132,292			$	11,922,468			$	12,054,760
Non-accrual loans:
Mortgage loans (gross):
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only	$	2,185			$	582			$	78,271			$	81,038			$	19,190			$	100,228
Full documentation amortizing	1,327				653				41,934				43,914				10,844				54,758
Reduced documentation interest-only	2,065				579				87,910				90,554				27,604				118,158
Reduced documentation amortizing	617				425				26,112				27,154				5,177				32,331
Total residential	6,194				2,239				234,227				242,660				62,815				305,475
Multi-family	1,104				357				9,054				10,515				2,024				12,539
Commercial real estate	930				—				921				1,851				5,773				7,624
Total mortgage loans	8,228				2,596				244,202				255,026				70,612				325,638
Consumer and other loans (gross):
Home equity and other consumer	—				—				5,948				5,948				32				5,980
Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				—				—
Total consumer and other loans	—				—				5,948				5,948				32				5,980
Total non-accrual loans	$	8,228			$	2,596			$	250,150			$	260,974			$	70,644			$	331,618
Total loans:
Mortgage loans (gross):
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only	$	29,476			$	5,802			$	78,271			$	113,549			$	1,268,652			$	1,382,201
Full documentation amortizing	32,516				8,068				42,085				82,669				5,336,788				5,419,457
Reduced documentation interest-only	24,700				5,787				87,910				118,397				721,264				839,661
Reduced documentation amortizing	9,610				2,736				26,112				38,458				357,499				395,957
Total residential	96,302				22,393				234,378				353,073				7,684,203				8,037,276
Multi-family	13,844				1,327				9,054				24,225				3,272,230				3,296,455
Commercial real estate	2,659				1,690				1,154				5,503				807,463				812,966
Total mortgage loans	112,805				25,410				244,586				382,801				11,763,896				12,146,697
Consumer and other loans (gross):
Home equity and other consumer	3,177				1,340				5,948				10,465				198,458				208,923
Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				30,758				30,758
Total consumer and other loans	3,177				1,340				5,948				10,465				229,216				239,681
Total loans	$	115,982			$	26,750			$	250,534			$	393,266			$	11,993,112			$	12,386,378
Net unamortized premiums and
deferred loan origination costs																					55,688
Loans receivable																					12,442,066
Allowance for loan losses																					(139,000		)
Loans receivable, net																					$	12,303,066
At June 30, 2014, we designated a pool of non-performing residential mortgage loans, substantially all of which were 90 days or more past due, as held-for-sale. In connection with the designation of the pool of loans as held-for-sale, we recorded a loan charge-off of $8.7 million against the allowance for loan losses during the 2014 second quarter to write down the pool of loans from its immediately previous aggregate recorded investment of $195.0 million to its estimated fair value at the time of $186.3 million. As a result of our quarterly review of the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses as of June 30, 2014, $5.7 million of reserves previously attributable to this pool of loans was deemed no longer required and was credited to the provision for loan losses as a reserve release in the 2014 second quarter. On July 31, 2014, we completed a bulk sale transaction of substantially all of the non-performing residential mortgage loans held-for-sale at terms approximating their carrying value at June 30, 2014. Total loans sold in that transaction had a carrying value of $173.7 million, reflecting the previous write down to the estimated fair value through June 30, 2014. The majority of the remaining loans from the pool designated as held-for-sale as of June 30, 2014 were either foreclosed upon and transferred to REO or were satisfied via short sales or payoffs during the 2014 third quarter with no material impact on our financial condition or results of operations. On September 12, 2014, we completed a second sale transaction, with the same counterparty as the bulk sale transaction, in which we sold all of the remaining non-performing residential mortgage loans held-for-sale with a carrying value of $4.0 million, reflecting the previous write down to the estimated fair value through June 30, 2014, and recorded a loss on the sale of such loans in the 2014 third quarter of $920,000.
Our residential mortgage loans consist primarily of interest-only and amortizing hybrid ARM loans.  We offer amortizing hybrid ARM loans which initially have a fixed rate for five, seven or ten years and convert into one year ARM loans at the end of the initial fixed rate period and require the borrower to make principal and interest payments during the entire loan term.  Prior to 2014, we also offered amortizing hybrid ARM loans with an initial fixed rate period of three years. Prior to the 2010 fourth quarter, we offered interest-only hybrid ARM loans, which have an initial fixed rate for five or seven years and convert into one year interest-only ARM loans at the end of the initial fixed rate period.  Our interest-only hybrid ARM loans require the borrower to pay interest only during the first ten years of the loan term.  After the tenth anniversary of the loan, principal and interest payments are required to amortize the loan over the remaining loan term.  We do not originate one year ARM loans.  The ARM loans in our portfolio which currently reprice annually represent hybrid ARM loans (interest-only and amortizing) which have passed their initial fixed rate period.  Our hybrid ARM loans may be offered with an initial interest rate which is less than the fully indexed rate for the loan at the time of origination, referred to as a discounted rate.  We determine the initial interest rate in accordance with market and competitive factors giving consideration to the spread over our funding sources in conjunction with our overall interest rate risk management strategies.  Residential interest-only hybrid ARM loans originated prior to 2007 were underwritten at the initial note rate which may have been a discounted rate.  Such loans totaled $1.06 billion at December 31, 2014 and $1.66 billion at December 31, 2013.  We do not originate negative amortization loans, payment option loans or other loans with short-term interest-only periods.
Within our residential mortgage loan portfolio we have reduced documentation loan products, which totaled $1.02 billion at December 31, 2014 and $1.24 billion at December 31, 2013.  Reduced documentation loans are comprised primarily of SIFA (stated income, full asset) loans.  To a lesser extent, reduced documentation loans in our portfolio also include SISA (stated income, stated asset) loans, which totaled $148.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $193.0 million at December 31, 2013.  SIFA and SISA loans require a prospective borrower to complete a standard mortgage loan application.  Reduced documentation loans require the receipt of an appraisal of the real estate used as collateral for the mortgage loan and a credit report on the prospective borrower.  In addition, SIFA loans require the verification of a potential borrower’s asset information on the loan application, but not the income information provided.  During the 2007 fourth quarter, we stopped offering reduced documentation loans.
Included in loans receivable at December 31, 2014 are loans in the process of foreclosure collateralized by residential real estate property with a recorded investment of $24.7 million.
Accrued interest receivable on all loans totaled $29.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $31.7 million at December 31, 2013. If all non-accrual loans at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 had been performing in accordance with their original terms, we would have recorded interest income, with respect to such loans, of $5.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, $15.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $16.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.  This compares to actual payments recorded as interest income, with respect to such loans, of $3.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, $6.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $4.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
The following table sets forth the changes in our allowance for loan losses by loan receivable segment for the years indicated.
		Mortgage Loans															Consumer and Other Loans
(In Thousands)	Residential						Multi-				Commercial												Total
							Family				Real Estate
Balance at December 31, 2011		$	105,991				$	35,422				$	11,972					$	3,800				$	157,185
Provision charged to operations		24,663					6,161					5,038						4,538					40,400
Charge-offs		(49,794		)			(6,275		)			(2,607		)				(2,541		)			(61,217		)
Recoveries		8,407					206					1						519					9,133
Balance at December 31, 2012		89,267					35,514					14,404						6,316					145,501
Provision charged to operations		9,368					4,684					1,945						3,604					19,601
Charge-offs		(26,644		)			(4,732		)			(3,748		)				(1,916		)			(37,040		)
Recoveries		8,346					1,237					535						820					10,938
Balance at December 31, 2013		80,337					36,703					13,136						8,824					139,000
Provision (credited) charged to operations		(23,464		)			5,337					6,949						1,709					(9,469		)
Charge-offs		(19,868		)			(4,365		)			(3,283		)				(2,073		)			(29,589		)
Recoveries		9,278					1,575					440						365					11,658
Balance at December 31, 2014		$	46,283				$	39,250				$	17,242					$	8,825				$	111,600
The following table sets forth the balances of our residential interest-only mortgage loans at December 31, 2014 by the year in which such loans are scheduled to enter their amortization period.
(In Thousands)	Recorded
	Investment
Amortization scheduled to begin in:
2015	$	573,633
2016	415,608
2017	390,439
2018 and thereafter	85,510
Total	$	1,465,190
The following tables set forth the balances of our residential mortgage and consumer and other loan receivable segments by class and credit quality indicator at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Residential Mortgage Loans																					Consumer and Other Loans
		Full Documentation										Reduced Documentation											Home Equity and Other Consumer						Commercial and Industrial
(In Thousands)	Interest-only						Amortizing				Interest-only						Amortizing
Performing		$	826,155				$	4,981,880				$	568,424					$	396,922					$	178,513					$	64,815
Non-performing:
Current or past due less than 90 days		16,525					7,458					26,295						4,888						—						—
Past due 90 days or more		11,502					14,355					16,289						2,843						6,040						—
Total		$	854,182				$	5,003,693				$	611,008					$	404,653					$	184,553					$	64,815
		At December 31, 2013
		Residential Mortgage Loans																					Consumer and Other Loans
		Full Documentation										Reduced Documentation											Home Equity and Other Consumer						Commercial and Industrial
(In Thousands)	Interest-only						Amortizing				Interest-only						Amortizing
Performing		$	1,281,973				$	5,364,548				$	721,503					$	363,626					$	202,943					$	30,758
Non-performing:
Current or past due less than 90 days		21,957					12,824					30,248						6,219						32						—
Past due 90 days or more		78,271					42,085					87,910						26,112						5,948						—
Total		$	1,382,201				$	5,419,457				$	839,661					$	395,957					$	208,923					$	30,758
The following table sets forth the balances of our multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
		2014												2013
(In Thousands)	Multi-Family						Commercial						Multi-Family						Commercial
							Real Estate												Real Estate
Not criticized		$	3,850,068					$	817,404					$	3,209,786					$	759,114
Criticized:
Special mention		30,975						22,584						14,063						9,760
Substandard		31,264						32,664						72,606						44,092
Doubtful		746						1,113						—						—
Total		$	3,913,053					$	873,765					$	3,296,455					$	812,966
The following tables set forth the balances of our loans receivable and the related allowance for loan loss allocation by segment and by the impairment methodology followed in determining the allowance for loan losses at the dates indicated.
	At December 31, 2014
	Mortgage Loans																Consumer and Other Loans
(In Thousands)	Residential				Multi-Family						Commercial												Total
											Real Estate
Loans:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	181,402				$	42,611					$	19,270					$	5,153				$	248,436
Collectively evaluated for impairment	6,692,134					3,870,442						854,495						244,215					11,661,286
Total loans	$	6,873,536				$	3,913,053					$	873,765					$	249,368				$	11,909,722
Allowance for loan losses:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	10,304				$	3,172					$	2,446					$	3,810				$	19,732
Collectively evaluated for impairment	35,979					36,078						14,796						5,015					91,868
Total allowance for loan losses	$	46,283				$	39,250					$	17,242					$	8,825				$	111,600
	At December 31, 2013
	Mortgage Loans																Consumer and Other Loans
(In Thousands)	Residential				Multi-Family						Commercial												Total
											Real Estate
Loans:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	311,930				$	52,538					$	20,054					$	—				$	384,522
Collectively evaluated for impairment	7,725,346					3,243,917						792,912						239,681					12,001,856
Total loans	$	8,037,276				$	3,296,455					$	812,966					$	239,681				$	12,386,378
Allowance for loan losses:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	18,352				$	2,877					$	302					$	—				$	21,531
Collectively evaluated for impairment	61,985					33,826						12,834						8,824					117,469
Total allowance for loan losses	$	80,337				$	36,703					$	13,136					$	8,824				$	139,000
The following table summarizes information related to our impaired loans by segment and class at the dates indicated.
	At December 31,
	2014																				2013
(In Thousands)	Unpaid				Recorded						Related				Net						Unpaid				Recorded						Related			Net
	Principal				Investment						Allowance				Investment						Principal				Investment						Allowance			Investment
	Balance																				Balance
With an allowance recorded:
Mortgage loans:
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only	$	55,352				$	46,331				$	(3,391	)			$	42,940				$	142,659				$	109,877				$	(6,019	)		$	103,858
Full documentation amortizing	43,044					39,994					(1,425		)			38,569					41,136					36,091					(2,458		)		33,633
Reduced documentation interest-only	90,171					76,960					(4,661		)			72,299					183,280					140,357					(7,673		)		132,684
Reduced documentation amortizing	19,463					18,117					(827		)			17,290					30,660					25,605					(2,202		)		23,403
Multi-family	34,972					28,109					(3,172		)			24,937					19,748					19,748					(2,877		)		16,871
Commercial real estate	24,991					19,270					(2,446		)			16,824					5,790					5,790					(302		)		5,488
Consumer and other loans:
Home equity lines of credit	5,436					5,153					(3,810		)			1,343					—					—					—				—
Without an allowance recorded:
Mortgage loans:
Multi-family	16,308					14,502					—					14,502					39,871					32,790					—				32,790
Commercial real estate	—					—					—					—					19,988					14,264					—				14,264
Total impaired loans	$	289,737				$	248,436				$	(19,732	)			$	228,704				$	483,132				$	384,522				$	(21,531	)		$	362,991
The following table sets forth the average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to our impaired loans by segment and class for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
		2014																		2013																	2012
(In Thousands)	Average						Interest						Cash Basis						Average						Interest						Cash Basis					Average						Interest						Cash Basis
	Recorded						Income						Interest						Recorded						Income						Interest					Recorded						Income						Interest
	Investment						Recognized						Income						Investment						Recognized						Income					Investment						Recognized						Income
With an allowance recorded:
Mortgage loans:
Residential:
Full documentation		$	84,264					$	1,860					$	1,920					$	106,720					$	2,938					$	3,068				$	10,436					$	348					$	350
interest-only
Full documentation amortizing		38,340						1,491						1,498						30,790						948						974					4,482						193						200
Reduced documentation		112,172						3,646						3,671						145,490						4,179						4,371					11,352						542						543
interest-only
Reduced documentation amortizing		22,137						655						653						25,460						696						729					2,445						114						119
Multi-family		30,291						1,320						1,339						19,130						737						789					48,196						663						715
Commercial real estate		17,341						1,065						1,154						8,112						367						377					12,724						495						540
Consumer and other loans:
Home equity lines of credit		5,202						45						54						—						—						—					—						—						—
Without an allowance recorded:
Mortgage loans:
Residential:
Full documentation		—						—						—						11,547						—						—					82,631						1,633						1,739
interest-only
Full documentation amortizing		365						—						—						3,517						—						—					17,554						299						332
Reduced documentation		—						—						—						1,669						—						—					115,593						2,555						2,655
interest-only
Reduced documentation amortizing		—						—						—						—						—						—					17,319						367						384
Multi-family		17,225						632						633						33,193						1,606						1,671					14,617						2,053						2,088
Commercial real estate		2,853						—						—						10,947						745						698					5,411						519						547
Total impaired loans		$	330,190					$	10,714					$	10,922					$	396,575					$	12,216					$	12,677				$	342,760					$	9,781					$	10,212
The following table sets forth information about our mortgage loans receivable by segment and class at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 which were modified in a TDR during the years indicated.
		Modifications During the Year Ended December 31,
		2014																	2013																2012
(Dollars In Thousands)	Number					Pre-						Recorded						Number					Pre-						Recorded					Number					Pre-						Recorded
	of Loans					Modification						Investment at						of Loans					Modification						Investment at					of Loans					Modification						Investment at
						Recorded						31-Dec-14											Recorded						December 31, 2013										Recorded						December 31, 2012
						Investment																	Investment																Investment
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only		21					$	9,244					$	8,726					26					$	6,760					$	6,730				20					$	4,390					$	4,355
Full documentation amortizing		4					889						812						11					3,753						3,734					11					3,319						3,291
Reduced documentation interest-only		19					6,819						6,774						37					12,199						12,227					29					11,141						11,125
Reduced documentation amortizing		5					809						745						11					3,404						3,325					14					3,984						3,860
Multi-family		4					2,501						1,981						8					6,751						5,888					16					36,262						32,005
Commercial real estate		3					2,482						2,433						7					10,232						9,104					3					3,898						2,305
Total		56					$	22,744					$	21,471					100					$	43,099					$	41,008				93					$	62,994					$	56,941
The following table sets forth information about our mortgage loans receivable by segment and class at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 which were modified in a TDR during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 and had a payment default subsequent to the modification during the years indicated.
		During the Year Ended December 31,
		2014											2013											2012
(Dollars In Thousands)	Number					Recorded						Number					Recorded						Number					Recorded
	of Loans					Investment at						of Loans					Investment at						of Loans					Investment at
						December 31, 2014											December 31, 2013											December 31, 2012
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only		1					$	621					11					$	2,191					1					$	165
Full documentation amortizing		2					319						4					1,334						2					643
Reduced documentation interest-only		3					1,123						17					4,190						5					1,829
Reduced documentation amortizing		—					—						3					788						4					1,628
Multi-family		3					1,400						2					1,018						2					3,589
Total		9					$	3,463					37					$	9,521					14					$	7,854
The following table details the percentage of our total residential mortgage loans at December 31, 2014 by state where we have a concentration of greater than 5% of our total residential mortgage loans or total non-performing residential mortgage loans.
State	Percent of Total					Percent of Total
	Residential					Non-Performing
	Loans					Residential
						Loans
New York		29.6	%				11.4	%
Connecticut		9.9					4.5
Illinois		8.8					14.3
Massachusetts		8.6					4.4
Virginia		7.5					10.3
New Jersey		6.9					14
Maryland		6.4					14.9
California		5.7					11.9
At December 31, 2014, substantially all of our multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans were secured by properties located in the New York metropolitan area, which includes New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. At December 31, 2014, 85% of the non-performing multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans were secured by properties located in the New York metropolitan area with the remainder in Pennsylvania.

Mortgage_Servicing_Rights

Mortgage Servicing Rights	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Servicing Asset [Abstract]
Mortgage Servicing Rights	Mortgage Servicing Rights
	We own rights to service mortgage loans for investors with aggregate unpaid principal balances of $1.45 billion at December 31, 2014 and $1.50 billion at December 31, 2013, which are not reflected in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial condition.  As described in Note 1, we outsource our residential mortgage loan servicing to a third party under a sub-servicing agreement.
	The estimated fair value of our MSR was $11.4 million at December 31, 2014 and $12.8 million at December 31, 2013.  The fair value of MSR is highly sensitive to changes in assumptions.  See Note 16 for a description of the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of MSR.
	The following table summarizes MSR activity for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Carrying amount before valuation allowance at beginning of year	$	15,595		$	15,143		$	15,401
	Additions – servicing obligations that result from transfers of financial assets	1,123			3,681			3,651
	Amortization	(2,582		)	(3,229		)	(3,909		)
	Carrying amount before valuation allowance at end of year	14,136			15,595			15,143
	Valuation allowance at beginning of year	(2,795		)	(8,196		)	(7,265		)
	Recovery of (provision for) valuation allowance	60			5,401			(931		)
	Valuation allowance at end of year	(2,735		)	(2,795		)	(8,196		)
	Net carrying amount at end of year	$	11,401		$	12,800		$	6,947
	The following table summarizes mortgage banking income, net, for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Loan servicing fees	$	4,085		$	4,189		$	4,070
	Net gain on sales of loans	1,763			6,880			7,590
	Amortization of MSR	(2,582		)	(3,229		)	(3,909		)
	Recovery of (provision for) valuation allowance on MSR	60			5,401			(931		)
	Total mortgage banking income, net	$	3,326		$	13,241		$	6,820
	At December 31, 2014, estimated future MSR amortization through 2019 was as follows:  $2.3 million for 2015, $2.0 million for 2016, $1.6 million for 2017, $1.4 million for 2018 and $1.2 million for 2019.  Actual results will vary depending upon the level of repayments on the loans currently serviced.

Deposits

Deposits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Deposits [Abstract]
Deposits	Deposits
	The following table summarizes deposits at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
						2014									2013
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Weighted Average Rate				Balance				Percent of Total		Weighted Average Rate			Balance		Percent of Total
	Core deposits:
	Savings		0.05	%		$	2,237,142			23.54	%		0.05	%	$	2,493,899	25.31	%
	Money market		0.24			2,373,484				24.96			0.25		1,972,136		20.01
	NOW		0.06			1,331,345				14.01			0.06		1,231,890		12.5
	Non-interest bearing NOW		—			867,432				9.13			—		865,588		8.78
	and demand deposit
	Total core deposits		0.11			6,809,403				71.64			0.11		6,563,513		66.6
	Certificates of deposit		1.47			2,695,506				28.36			1.5		3,291,797		33.4
	Total deposits		0.5	%		$	9,504,909			100	%		0.57	%	$	9,855,310	100	%
	The aggregate amount of certificates of deposit with balances equal to or greater than $100,000 was $871.2 million at December 31, 2014 and $1.06 billion at December 31, 2013.  There were no brokered certificates of deposit at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	The following table details the scheduled maturities of our certificates of deposit at December 31, 2014.
	Year	Weighted					Balance					Percent
		Average										of
		Rate										Total
						(In Thousands)
	2015		1.44	%			$	1,577,360				58.52	%
	2016		1.78				551,619					20.46
	2017		1.09				277,620					10.3
	2018		1.1				101,213					3.76
	2019		1.5				186,384					6.91
	2020 and thereafter		1.7				1,310					0.05
	Total		1.47	%			$	2,695,506				100	%
	The following table summarizes interest expense on deposits for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013				2012
	Savings	$	1,182		$	1,329			$	4,437
	Money market	5,527			5,646				8,944
	Interest-bearing NOW	706			691				978
	Certificates of deposit	43,940			54,951				83,662
	Total interest expense on deposits	$	51,355		$	62,617			$	98,021

Borrowings

Borrowings	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Borrowings	Borrowings
	The following table summarizes our borrowings at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
		2014							2013
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Amount			Weighted				Amount			Weighted
					Average							Average
					Rate							Rate
	Federal funds purchased	$	455,000			0.31	%		$	335,000			0.28	%
	Reverse repurchase agreements	1,100,000				3.62			1,100,000				3.87
	FHLB-NY advances	2,384,000				1.72			2,454,000				1.79
	Other borrowings, net	248,691				5			248,161				5
	Total borrowings, net	$	4,187,691			2.26	%		$	4,137,161			2.41	%
	Through the Federal Reserve Bank of New York discount window we have the ability to borrow additional funds should the need arise on a short-term basis, primarily overnight. Our borrowing capacity through the discount window totaled approximately $350.0 million at December 31, 2014. In order to have the ability to borrow through the discount window, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York requires that collateral is pledged. In accordance with such requirements, at December 31, 2014, we had pledged as collateral with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York securities with an amortized cost of $102.1 million and commercial real estate mortgage loans with an unpaid principal balance of $601.2 million. We view the discount window as a secondary source of liquidity and, during 2014 and 2013, we did not utilize this source.
	Federal Funds Purchased
	The outstanding federal funds purchased at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were due overnight. During the year ended December 31, 2014, federal funds purchased averaged $377.1 million with a weighted average interest rate of 0.30% and the maximum amount outstanding at any month end was $455.0 million. During the year ended December 31, 2013, federal funds purchased averaged $209.4 million with a weighted average interest rate of 0.28% and the maximum outstanding at any month end was $335.0 million.  There were no federal funds purchased outstanding at or during the year ended December 31, 2012.
	Reverse Repurchase Agreements
	The outstanding reverse repurchase agreements at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were fixed rate and had original contractual maturities ranging from four to ten years.  Securities collateralizing these agreements, which were primarily mortgage-backed securities, had an amortized cost of $1.26 billion and an estimated fair value of $1.26 billion, including accrued interest, at December 31, 2014 and an amortized cost of $1.26 billion and an estimated fair value of $1.24 billion, including accrued interest, at December 31, 2013 and are classified as encumbered securities in the consolidated statements of financial condition.
	The following table summarizes information relating to reverse repurchase agreements.
		At or For the Year Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in Thousands)	2014				2013			2012
	Average balance during the year	$	1,100,000			$	1,100,000		$	1,422,678
	Maximum balance at any month end during the year	1,100,000				1,100,000			1,700,000
	Balance outstanding at end of year	1,100,000				1,100,000			1,100,000
	Weighted average interest rate during the year	3.82		%		4.06		%	4.28		%
	Weighted average interest rate at end of year	3.62				3.87			4.32
	The following table details the contractual maturities of our reverse repurchase agreements at December 31, 2014.
	Year		Amount
		(In Thousands)
	2018		$	200,000		(1	)
	2019		600,000			(1	)
	2020		300,000			(2	)
	Total		$	1,100,000
	-1	Callable in 2015.
	-2	Includes $100.0 million of borrowings which are callable in 2015, $100.0 million of borrowings which are callable in 2016 and $100.0 million of borrowings which are callable in 2017.
	FHLB-NY Advances
	Pursuant to a blanket collateral agreement with the FHLB-NY, advances are secured by all of our stock in the FHLB-NY, certain qualifying mortgage loans and mortgage-backed and other securities not otherwise pledged.
	The following table summarizes information relating to FHLB-NY advances.
		At or For the Year Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in Thousands)	2014				2013			2012
	Average balance during the year	$	2,332,718			$	2,512,425		$	2,765,985
	Maximum balance at any month end during the year	2,617,000				2,881,000			3,215,000
	Balance outstanding at end of year	2,384,000				2,454,000			2,897,000
	Weighted average interest rate during the year	1.78		%		2		%	2.24		%
	Weighted average interest rate at end of year	1.72				1.79			2.07
	The following table details the contractual maturities of FHLB-NY advances at December 31, 2014.
	Year	Amount
		(In Thousands)
	2015		$	984,000		(1	)
	2016		550,000
	2020		850,000			(2	)
	Total		$	2,384,000
	-1	Includes $209.0 million of borrowings due overnight, $475.0 million of borrowings due in less than 30 days and $300.0 million of borrowings due after 90 days.
	-2	Callable in 2017.
	Other Borrowings
	On June 19, 2012, we completed the sale of $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.00% senior unsecured notes due 2017, or 5.00% Senior Notes.  The notes are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, bear a fixed rate of interest of 5.00% and mature on June 19, 2017.  We may redeem all or part of the 5.00% Senior Notes at any time, subject to a 30 day minimum notice requirement, at par together with accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date.  The carrying amount of the notes was $248.7 million at December 31, 2014 and $248.2 million at December 31, 2013.  The terms of these notes subject us to certain debt covenants. We were in compliance with such covenants at December 31, 2014.
	Our former finance subsidiary, Astoria Capital Trust I, was formed for the purpose of issuing $125.0 million aggregate liquidation amount of 9.75% Capital Securities due November 1, 2029, or Capital Securities, and $3.9 million of common securities (which were the only voting securities of Astoria Capital Trust I and were owned by Astoria Financial Corporation) and used the proceeds to acquire 9.75% Junior Subordinated Debentures, due November 1, 2029, issued by Astoria Financial Corporation totaling $128.9 million.  The Junior Subordinated Debentures were the sole assets of Astoria Capital Trust I.  The Junior Subordinated Debentures were prepayable, in whole or in part, at our option at declining premiums to November 1, 2019, after which the Junior Subordinated Debentures were prepayable at par value.  The Capital Securities had the same prepayment provisions as the Junior Subordinated Debentures.  On May 10, 2013, we prepaid in whole our Junior Subordinated Debentures, which were included in other borrowings, net, pursuant to the optional prepayment provisions of the indenture at a prepayment price of 103.413% of the $128.9 million aggregate principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the date of repayment.  As a result of the prepayment in whole of the Junior Subordinated Debentures, Astoria Capital Trust I simultaneously applied the proceeds of such prepayment to redeem its Capital Securities, as well as the common securities owned by Astoria Financial Corporation.  The prepayment of the Junior Subordinated Debentures resulted in a $4.3 million prepayment charge in the 2013 second quarter for the early extinguishment of this debt.
	On September 13, 2012, we redeemed $250.0 million of senior unsecured notes which were scheduled to mature on October 15, 2012 and incurred a $1.2 million prepayment charge in the 2012 third quarter for the early extinguishment of this debt.
	The following table summarizes interest expense on borrowings for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014				2013			2012
	Federal funds purchased	$	1,139			$	587		$	—
	Reverse repurchase agreements	42,626				45,272			61,855
	FHLB-NY advances	41,911				50,654			62,675
	Other borrowings	13,031				17,398			29,689
Total interest expense on borrowings	$	98,707			$	113,911		$	154,219

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Stockholders’ Equity
	We have an automatic shelf registration statement on Form S-3 on file with the SEC, which allow us to periodically offer and sell, from time to time, in one or more offerings, individually or in any combination, common stock, preferred stock, depositary shares, senior notes, warrants to purchase common stock or preferred stock and units consisting of one or more of the foregoing.  This shelf registration statement provides us with greater capital management flexibility and enables us to more readily access the capital markets in order to pursue growth opportunities that may become available to us in the future or should there be any changes in the regulatory environment that call for increased capital requirements.  Although the shelf registration statement does not limit the amount of the foregoing items that we may offer and sell, our ability and any decision to do so is subject to market conditions and our capital needs.
	On March 19, 2013, in a public offering, we sold 5,400,000 depositary shares, each representing a 1/40th interest in a share of our 6.50% Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C, $1.00 par value per share, $1,000 liquidation preference per share (equivalent to $25 per depositary share), or Series C Preferred Stock.  We issued 135,000 shares of the Series C Preferred Stock in connection with the sale of the depositary shares.  The aggregate proceeds from the offering, net of underwriting discounts and other issuance costs, were approximately $129.8 million.
	The Series C Preferred Stock, and corresponding depositary shares, may be redeemed at our option, in whole or in part, on April 15, 2018, or on any dividend payment date occurring thereafter, at a redemption price of $1,000 per share (equivalent to $25 per depositary share), plus any declared and unpaid dividends (without accumulation of any undeclared dividends). The Series C Preferred Stock may also be redeemed in whole, but not in part, at any time upon the occurrence of a “regulatory capital treatment event,” as defined in the certificate of designations included in the registration statement on Form 8-A filed with the SEC on March 19, 2013.  The holders of the Series C Preferred Stock, and the corresponding depositary shares, do not have the right to require the redemption or repurchase of the Series C Preferred Stock.
	Dividends are payable on the Series C Preferred Stock when, as and if declared by our Board of Directors, on a non-cumulative basis quarterly in arrears on January 15, April 15, July 15 and October 15 of each year at an annual rate of 6.50% on the liquidation preference of $1,000 per share.  No dividend shall be declared, paid, or set aside for payment on our common stock unless the full dividends for the most recently completed dividend period have been declared and paid on our Series C Preferred Stock.
	On January 7, 2014, we adopted the Astoria Financial Corporation Dividend Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan, or the Stock Purchase Plan, and terminated the previously existing plan.  The Stock Purchase Plan allows our shareholders to automatically reinvest the cash dividend paid on all or a portion of their shares of our common stock into additional shares of our common stock and make optional cash purchases, up to $10,000 per month, of additional shares of our common stock, unless we grant a waiver permitting a higher amount of optional cash purchases.  Shares of common stock may be purchased either directly from us from authorized but unissued shares or from treasury shares, or on the open market. We have registered 1,500,000 shares of our common stock under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, for offer and sale from time to time pursuant to the Stock Purchase Plan. During the year ended December 31, 2014, 615,340 shares of our common stock were purchased pursuant to the Stock Purchase Plan directly from us from treasury shares for net proceeds totaling $8.1 million.
	On April 18, 2007, our Board of Directors approved our twelfth stock repurchase plan authorizing the purchase of 10,000,000 shares, or approximately 10% of our common stock then outstanding in open-market or privately negotiated transactions.  At December 31, 2014, a maximum of 8,107,300 shares may yet be purchased under this plan.  However, we are not currently repurchasing additional shares of our common stock and have not since the 2008 third quarter.
	We are subject to the laws of the State of Delaware which generally limit dividends on capital stock to an amount equal to the excess of our net assets (the amount by which total assets exceed total liabilities) over our statutory capital, or if there is no such excess, to our net profits for the current and/or immediately preceding fiscal year.  We are also required to seek the approval of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, or FRB, prior to declaring a dividend.  Our ability to pay dividends, service our debt obligations and repurchase our common stock is dependent primarily upon receipt of dividend payments from Astoria Bank.  Our primary banking regulator, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, or OCC, regulates all capital distributions by Astoria Bank directly or indirectly to us, including dividend payments.  Astoria Bank must file an application to receive approval from the OCC for a proposed capital distribution if the total amount of all capital distributions (including each proposed capital distribution) for the applicable calendar year exceeds net income for that year-to-date plus the retained net income for the preceding two years.  During 2014, Astoria Bank was not required to file such applications, but was required to, and did, notify the OCC of its intent to pay dividends, to which the OCC did not object.  Astoria Bank may not pay dividends to us if: (1) after paying those dividends, it would fail to meet applicable regulatory capital requirements; (2) the payment would violate any statute, regulation, regulatory agreement or condition; or (3) after making such distribution, the institution would become “undercapitalized” (as such term is used in the Federal Deposit Insurance Act).  Payment of dividends by Astoria Bank also may be restricted at any time at the discretion of the OCC if it deems the payment to constitute an unsafe and unsound banking practice.  Astoria Bank must also provide notice to the FRB at least 30 days prior to declaring a dividend.  Astoria Bank paid dividends to Astoria Financial Corporation totaling $39.4 million during 2014.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies
	Lease Commitments
	At December 31, 2014, we were obligated through 2035 under various non-cancelable operating leases on buildings and land used for office space and banking purposes.  These operating leases contain escalation clauses which provide for increased rental expense, based primarily on increases in real estate taxes and cost-of-living indices.  Rent expense under the operating leases totaled $12.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, $13.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $11.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.
	The minimum rental payments due under the terms of the non-cancelable operating leases at December 31, 2014, which have not been reduced by minimum sublease rentals of $4.1 million due in the future under non-cancelable subleases, are summarized below.
	Year		Amount
		(In Thousands)
	2015		$	12,323
	2016		12,347
	2017		10,858
	2018		9,513
	2019		8,619
	2020 and thereafter		36,591
	Total		$	90,251
	Outstanding Commitments
	The following table summarizes our outstanding commitments at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013
	Mortgage loans:
	Commitments to extend credit – adjustable rate	$	289,086		$	216,675
	Commitments to extend credit – fixed rate (1)	74,157			50,303
	Commitments to purchase – adjustable rate	10,334			8,521
	Commitments to purchase – fixed rate	27,818			24,326
	Commitments to extend credit on consumer and other loans	12,345			—
	Unused lines of credit:
	Home equity and other consumer loans	101,329			139,598
	Commercial and industrial loans	64,074			38,372
	Commitments to sell loans	20,904			19,114
	_______________________________
	-1	Includes commitments to originate loans held-for-sale totaling $14.8 million at December 31, 2014 and $9.2 million at December 31, 2013.
	Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract.  Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee.  Since some of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements.  We evaluate creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis.  Our maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the contractual amount of the instruments.
	Assets Sold with Recourse
	We are obligated under various recourse provisions associated with certain first mortgage loans we sold in the secondary market.  Generally the loans we sell in the secondary market are subject to recourse for fraud and adherence to underwriting or quality control guidelines.  We were not required to repurchase any loans during 2014 as a result of these recourse provisions.  The principal balance of loans sold in the secondary market with recourse provisions in addition to fraud and adherence to underwriting or quality control guidelines amounted to $355.0 million at December 31, 2014 and $358.1 million at December 31, 2013.  We estimate the liability for such loans sold with recourse based on an analysis of our loss experience related to similar loans sold with recourse.  The carrying amount of this liability was immaterial at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	On July 31, 2014, we completed a bulk sale transaction of certain non-performing residential mortgage loans that had a carrying value of $173.7 million. On September 12, 2014, we completed a second sale transaction, with the same counterparty as the bulk sale transaction, in which we sold additional non-performing residential mortgage loans with a carrying value of $4.0 million. The loan sale agreements governing the sale transactions contain usual and customary indemnification provisions protecting the purchaser from breaches of our representations, warranties and covenants. The indemnification protection expires 180 days after the closing. In addition, the loan sale agreements contain customary provisions obligating us to cure certain document deficiencies with respect to the loans that the purchaser identified to us prior to the closing. We have agreed that if we are unable to cure such deficiencies within 90 days after the closing or if we receive a valid indemnification claim with respect to a loan within 180 days after the closing, we will negotiate an adjustment to the purchase price for such loans, or, if we prefer, repurchase such loans. There were no adjustments to the purchase price for such loans or repurchases during 2014. The indemnification and document cure provisions are not expected to have a material impact on our liquidity, financial condition or results of operations. See Note 3 and Note 4 for additional information regarding these loan sales.
	Guarantees
	Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by us to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party.  The guarantees generally extend for a term of up to one year and are fully collateralized.  For each guarantee issued, if the customer defaults on a payment or performance to the third party, we would have to perform under the guarantee.  Outstanding standby letters of credit totaled $1.2 million at December 31, 2014 and $513,000 at December 31, 2013.  The fair values of these obligations were immaterial at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Litigation
	In the ordinary course of our business, we are routinely made a defendant in or a party to pending or threatened legal actions or proceedings which, in some cases, seek substantial monetary damages from or other forms of relief against us.  In our opinion, after consultation with legal counsel, we believe it unlikely that such actions or proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
	City of New York Notice of Determination
	By “Notice of Determination” dated September 14, 2010 and August 26, 2011, or the 2010 and 2011 Notices, the City of New York notified us of alleged tax deficiencies in the amount of $13.3 million, including interest and penalties, related to our 2006 through 2008 tax years.  The deficiencies related to our operation of two subsidiaries of Astoria Bank, Fidata Service Corp., or Fidata, and Astoria Federal Mortgage Corp., or AF Mortgage.  We disagree with the assertion of the tax deficiencies.  Hearings in this matter were held before the New York City Tax Appeals Tribunal, or the NYC Tax Appeals Tribunal, in March and April 2013.  On October 29, 2014, the NYC Tax Appeals Tribunal issued a decision favorable to us canceling the 2010 and 2011 Notices. The City of New York appealed the decision of the NYC Tax Appeals Tribunal. The parties are in the process of preparing and submitting briefs to the NYC Tax Appeals Tribunal and a hearing date for the appeal will be set after all briefs have been submitted. At this time, management believes it is more likely than not that we will succeed in defending against the City of New York’s appeal. Accordingly, no liability or reserve has been recognized in our consolidated statement of financial condition at December 31, 2014 with respect to this matter.
	By “Notice of Determination” dated November 19, 2014, or the 2014 Notice, the City of New York notified us of an alleged tax deficiency in the amount of $6.1 million, including interest and penalties, related to our 2009 and 2010 tax years. This deficiency related to our operation of Fidata and AF Mortgage and the basis of the 2014 Notice is substantially the same as that of the 2010 and 2011 Notices. We disagree with the assertion of the tax deficiency and we filed a Petition for Hearing with the City of New York on February 13, 2015 to oppose the 2014 Notice. At this time, management believes it is more likely than not that we will succeed in refuting the City of New York’s position asserted in the 2014 Notice. Accordingly, no liability or reserve has been recognized in our consolidated statement of financial condition at December 31, 2014 with respect to this matter.
	No assurance can be given as to whether or to what extent we will be required to pay the amount of the tax deficiencies asserted by the City of New York, whether additional tax will be assessed for years subsequent to 2010, that these matters will not be costly to oppose, that these matters will not have an impact on our financial condition or results of operations or that, ultimately, any such impact will not be material.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	The following table summarizes income tax expense for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	17,435		$	24,524		$	(29,202	)
	State and local	4,033			3,722			3,201
	Total current	21,468			28,246			(26,001		)
	Deferred:
	Federal	27,452			9,496			52,969
	State and local	(22,641		)	7			912
	Total deferred	4,811			9,503			53,881
	Total income tax expense	$	26,279		$	37,749		$	27,880
	The following is a reconciliation of income tax expense computed by applying the federal income tax rate to income before income tax expense to income tax expense included in the consolidated statements of income for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Expected income tax expense at statutory federal rate	$	42,768		$	36,520		$	28,340
	State and local taxes, net of federal tax effect (1)	(12,096		)	2,424			2,673
	Tax exempt income (principally on BOLI)	(2,970		)	(2,945		)	(3,356		)
	Non-deductible ESOP compensation	—			2,613			2,187
	Low income housing tax credit	(1,676		)	(1,676		)	(1,727		)
	Other, net	253			813			(237		)
	Total income tax expense	$	26,279		$	37,749		$	27,880
	-1	Includes net tax benefits of $15.7 million, net of federal tax effects, for the year ended December 31, 2014 related to the impact of the changes in New York State, or NYS, income tax legislation enacted on March 31, 2014.
	The following table summarizes the tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Allowances for losses	$	48,243		$	54,511
	Compensation and benefits (principally pension and other	45,849			21,955
	postretirement benefit plans)
	Mortgage loans (principally deferred loan origination costs)	981			7,524
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale	—			4,010
	State and local net operating loss carryforwards	16,122			—
	Other deductible temporary differences	4,540			5,558
	Total gross deferred tax assets	115,735			93,558
	Less valuation allowance	(7,220		)	—
	Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance	108,515			93,558
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Premises and equipment	(3,102		)	(3,882		)
	Net unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale	(1,035		)	—
	MSR	(910		)	(69		)
	Total gross deferred tax liabilities	(5,047		)	(3,951		)
	Net deferred tax assets (included in other assets)	$	103,468		$	89,607
	We believe that our historical and future results of operations, and tax planning strategies which could be employed, will more likely than not generate sufficient taxable income to enable us to realize our net deferred tax assets.
	NYS income tax legislation was enacted on March 31, 2014 in connection with the approval of the NYS 2014-2015 budget. Portions of the new legislation result in significant changes in the calculation of income taxes imposed on banks and thrifts operating in NYS, including changes to (1) future period NYS tax rates, (2) rules related to sourcing of revenue for NYS tax purposes and (3) the NYS taxation of entities within one corporate structure, among other provisions. In recent years, we have been subject to taxation in NYS under an alternative taxation method based on assets. Deferred tax items related to net operating loss carryforwards and temporary differences could not be utilized under the alternative taxation method and were not anticipated to become utilizable in the future. As such, no deferred tax assets were previously established for these items. The new legislation, among other things, removes that alternative method. Further, the new law (1) requires that we will be taxed in a manner that we believe may result in an increase in our tax expense beginning in 2015 and (2) caused us to recognize temporary differences and net operating loss carryforward benefits in 2014 which we were unable to recognize previously. The impact of the 2014 changes in the NYS income tax legislation, including the effects of a 2014 fourth quarter resolution of an income tax matter with NYS, was an increase in our net deferred tax asset in the statement of financial condition with a corresponding reduction in income tax expense of $15.7 million in 2014.
	At December 31, 2014, we have available a NYS net operating loss carryforward of $199.2 million which expires in 2035. Utilization of this net operating loss carryforward, and the ability to carryover any remaining unused amount to subsequent years, is subject to certain limitations as well as elections that may be made by us.
	As was the case with NYS, for New York City we have been subject to income taxes on an alternative method based on assets through December 31, 2014 which similarly precluded recognition of deferred tax items. As such, no deferred tax assets were previously established for New York City purposes. Consistent with the establishment of our net deferred tax asset for NYS during 2014, we established a deferred tax asset, net of federal tax effects, of $7.2 million at December 31, 2014 reflecting the benefit of New York City net operating loss carryforwards of $85.3 million, which expire in various years from 2026 through 2034, and other temporary differences. However, under currently existing New York City income tax regulations, future realization of the net deferred tax asset related to New York City is not more likely than not and a valuation allowance in an amount equal to this portion of our net deferred tax asset was established as of December 31, 2014.
	We file income tax returns in the United States federal jurisdiction and in NYS and New York City jurisdictions, as well as various other state jurisdictions in which we do business.  With few exceptions, we are no longer subject to federal, state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2011.
	The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits for the years indicated.  The amounts have not been reduced by the federal deferred tax effects of unrecognized state tax benefits.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year	$	4,009		$	3,428		$	3,856
	Additions as a result of a tax position taken during the current period	675			600			630
	Reductions as a result of tax positions taken during a prior period	—			(19		)	—
	Reductions relating to settlement with taxing authorities	(2,529		)	—			(1,058		)
	Unrecognized tax benefits at end of year	$	2,155		$	4,009		$	3,428
	If realized, all of our unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2014 would affect our effective income tax rate.  After the related federal tax effects, realization of those benefits would reduce income tax expense by $1.4 million.
	In addition to the above unrecognized tax benefits, we have accrued liabilities for interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions totaling $469,000 at December 31, 2014, $1.1 million at December 31, 2013 and $730,000 at December 31, 2012.  We accrued interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions as an element of our income tax expense, net of the related federal tax effects, totaling $247,000 during the year ended December 31, 2014, $224,000 during the year ended December 31, 2013 and $316,000 during the year ended December 31, 2012.  Realization of all of our unrecognized tax benefits would result in a further reduction in income tax expense of $341,000 for the reversal of accrued interest and penalties, net of the related federal tax effects.
	Astoria Bank’s retained earnings at December 31, 2014 and 2013 includes base-year bad debt reserves, created for tax purposes prior to 1988, totaling $165.8 million.  A related deferred federal income tax liability of $58.0 million has not been recognized.  Base-year reserves are subject to recapture in the unlikely event that Astoria Bank (1) makes distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits, as calculated for federal income tax purposes, (2) redeems its stock, or (3) liquidates.

Earnings_Per_Common_Share

Earnings Per Common Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Common Share	Earnings Per Common Share
	The following table is a reconciliation of basic and diluted EPS for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands, Except Share Data)	2014			2013			2012
	Net income	$	95,916		$	66,593		$	53,091
	Preferred stock dividends	(8,775		)	(7,214		)	—
	Net income available to common shareholders	87,141			59,379			53,091
	Income allocated to participating securities	(973		)	(720		)	(463		)
	Net income allocated to common shareholders	$	86,168		$	58,659		$	52,628
	Basic weighted average common shares outstanding	98,384,443			97,121,497			95,455,344
	Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock units (1) (2)	—			—			—
	Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding	98,384,443			97,121,497			95,455,344
	Basic EPS	$	0.88		$	0.6		$	0.55
	Diluted EPS	$	0.88		$	0.6		$	0.55
	-1	Excludes options to purchase 962,783 shares of common stock which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2014; options to purchase 2,096,708 shares of common stock which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2013; and options to purchase 5,495,748 shares of common stock which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2012 because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
	(2)	Excludes 758,792 unvested restricted stock units which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2014 and 387,791 unvested restricted stock units which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2013 because the performance conditions have not been satisfied.  There were no unvested restricted stock units outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2012.

Other_Comprehensive_IncomeLoss

Other Comprehensive Income/Loss	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Other Comprehensive Income/Loss	Other Comprehensive Income/Loss
	The following tables set forth the components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of related tax effects, at the dates indicated and the changes during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	(In Thousands)	At						Other					At
		December 31, 2013						Comprehensive					December 31, 2014
								Income (Loss)
	Net unrealized (loss) gain on securities available-for-sale		$	(4,366	)				$	9,052				$	4,686
	Net actuarial loss on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(30,600		)				(36,876		)			(67,476		)
	Prior service cost on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(3,284		)				123					(3,161		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss		$	(38,250	)				$	(27,701	)			$	(65,951	)
	(In Thousands)	At						Other					At
		December 31, 2012						Comprehensive					December 31, 2013
								(Loss) Income
	Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale		$	7,451					$	(11,817	)			$	(4,366	)
	Net actuarial loss on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(77,115		)				46,515					(30,600		)
	Prior service cost on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(3,426		)				142					(3,284		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss		$	(73,090	)				$	34,840				$	(38,250	)
	The following table sets forth the components of other comprehensive income/loss for the years indicated.
	(In Thousands)	Before Tax				Tax				After Tax
		Amount				(Expense)				Amount
						Benefit
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2014
	Net unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale:
	Net unrealized holding gain on securities arising during the year	$	14,134			$	(4,991	)		$	9,143
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities included in net income	(141		)		50				(91		)
	Net unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale	13,993				(4,941		)		9,052
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	(60,583		)		23,116				(37,467		)
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	913				(322		)		591
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	(59,670		)		22,794				(36,876		)
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	190				(67		)		123
	Other comprehensive loss	$	(45,487	)		$	17,786			$	(27,701	)
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale:
	Net unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the year	$	(16,202	)		$	5,717			$	(10,485	)
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities included in net income	(2,057		)		725				(1,332		)
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale	(18,259		)		6,442				(11,817		)
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	68,150				(23,970		)		44,180
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	3,610				(1,275		)		2,335
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	71,760				(25,245		)		46,515
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	213				(71		)		142
	Other comprehensive income	$	53,714			$	(18,874	)		$	34,840
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale:
	Net unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the year	$	(2,040	)		$	720			$	(1,320	)
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities included in net income	(8,477		)		2,987				(5,490		)
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale	(10,517		)		3,707				(6,810		)
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	14,141				(4,998		)		9,143
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	5,447				(1,920		)		3,527
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	19,588				(6,918		)		12,670
	Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Prior service cost adjustment arising during the year	(5,463		)		1,925				(3,538		)
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	152				(54		)		98
	Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	(5,311		)		1,871				(3,440		)
	Reclassification adjustment for loss on cash flow hedge included in net income	261				(110		)		151
	Other comprehensive income	$	4,021			$	(1,450	)		$	2,571
	The following table sets forth information about amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to, and the affected line items in, the consolidated statement of income for the years indicated.
	(In Thousands)	For the Year Ended December 31,											Income Statement
		2014						2013					Line Item
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities		$	141					$	2,057			Gain on sales of securities
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss (1)		(913		)				(3,610		)		Compensation and benefits
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost (1)		(190		)				(213		)		Compensation and benefits
	Total reclassifications, before tax		(962		)				(1,766		)
Income tax effect		339						621				Income tax expense
Total reclassifications, net of tax		$	(623	)				$	(1,145	)		Net income
(1)  These other comprehensive income/loss components are included in the computations of net periodic (benefit) cost for our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan.  See Note 13 for additional details.

Benefit_Plans

Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Benefit Plans	Benefit Plans
	Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits
	The following table sets forth information regarding our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan at and for the periods indicated.
			Pension Benefits										Other Postretirement
													Benefits
		At or For the Year Ended December 31,										At or For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)		2014				2013						2014				2013
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	230,361			$	260,108					$	18,766			$	35,476
	Service cost		—				—						1,241				1,578
	Interest cost		10,450				9,549						930				1,279
	Actuarial loss (gain)		48,633				(28,749		)				8,371				(18,572		)
	Benefits paid		(19,172		)		(10,547		)				(763		)		(995		)
	Benefit obligation at end of year		270,272				230,361						28,545				18,766
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		189,367				160,683						—				—
	Actual return on plan assets		11,264				33,583						—				—
	Employer contribution		5,615				5,648						763				995
	Benefits paid		(19,172		)		(10,547		)				(763		)		(995		)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year		187,074				189,367						—				—
	Funded status at end of year		$	(83,198	)		$	(40,994	)				$	(28,545	)		$	(18,766	)
	The underfunded pension benefits and other postretirement benefits at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are included in other liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial condition.
	During 2014, we contributed $5.0 million to the Astoria Bank Pension Plan.  We do not expect to make a contribution in 2015. No pension plan assets are expected to be returned to us.
	The following table sets forth the pre-tax components of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits at the dates indicated.  We expect that $3.0 million in net actuarial loss and $190,000 in prior service cost will be recognized as components of net periodic cost in 2015.
		Pension Benefits								Other Postretirement
										Benefits
		At December 31,								At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014				2013				2014				2013
	Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	108,137			$	57,327			$	771			$	(8,089	)
	Prior service cost	4,950				5,140				—				—
	Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	$	113,087			$	62,467			$	771			$	(8,089	)
	The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $270.3 million at December 31, 2014 and $230.4 million at December 31, 2013.  Included in the tables of pension benefits are the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans, Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan, the Greater New York Savings Bank, or Greater, Directors’ Retirement Plan and the Long Island Bancorp, Inc., or LIB, Directors’ Retirement Plan, which are unfunded plans.  The projected benefit obligation and accumulated benefit obligation for these plans each totaled $15.1 million at December 31, 2014 and $13.1 million at December 31, 2013.
	The following table presents the discount rates used to determine the benefit obligations at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
		2014			2013
	Pension Benefit Plans:
	Astoria Bank Pension Plan	3.77	%		4.66	%
	Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans	3.6			4.39
	Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan	3.47			4.23
	Greater Directors’ Retirement Plan	3.12			3.64
	LIB Directors’ Retirement Plan	0.59			0.5
	Other Postretirement Benefit Plan:
	Astoria Bank Retiree Health Care Plan	3.89			4.8
	The following table summarizes the components of net periodic (benefit) cost for the years indicated.
		Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement Benefits
		For the Year Ended December 31,												For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014				2013				2012				2014				2013		2012
	Service cost	$	—			$	—			$	2,025			$	1,241			$	1,578	$	1,061
	Interest cost	10,450				9,549				10,992				930				1,279		1,378
	Expected return on plan assets	(14,843		)		(12,754		)		(11,947		)		—				—		—
	Recognized net actuarial loss (gain)	1,401				3,138				4,930				(488		)		472		517
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	190				213				177				—				—		(25		)
	Settlement	—				—				2,302				—				—		—
	Net periodic (benefit) cost	$	(2,802	)		$	146			$	8,479			$	1,683			$	3,329	$	2,931
	The following table sets forth the assumptions used to determine the net periodic (benefit) cost for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
		Discount Rate						Expected Return
								on Plan Assets
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Pension Benefit Plans:
	Astoria Bank Pension Plan	4.66	%		3.77	%		8	%		8	%
	Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans	4.39			3.49			N/A			N/A
	Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan	4.23			3.21			N/A			N/A
	Greater Directors’ Retirement Plan	3.64			2.77			N/A			N/A
	LIB Directors’ Retirement Plan	0.5			0.63			N/A			N/A
Other Postretirement Benefit Plan:
Astoria Bank Retiree Health Care Plan	4.8			3.98			N/A			N/A
To determine the expected return on plan assets, we consider the long-term historical return information on plan assets, the mix of investments that comprise plan assets and the historical returns on indices comparable to the fund classes in which the plan invests.
The following table presents the assumed health care cost trend rates at the dates indicated.
	At December 31,
	2014			2013
Health care cost trend rate assumed for the next year:
Pre-age 65	6.7	%		7	%
Post-age 65	9	%		10	%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5	%		5	%
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2021			2021
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plan.  The following table presents the effects of a one-percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates.
(In Thousands)	One Percentage						One Percentage
	Point Increase						Point Decrease
Effect on total service and interest cost components		$	418					$	(328	)
Effect on the postretirement benefit obligation		5,301						(4,092		)
The following table summarizes total benefits expected to be paid under our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan as of December 31, 2014, which reflect expected future service as appropriate.
Year	Pension				Other
	Benefits				Postretirement
					Benefits
	(In Thousands)
2015	$	11,961				$	973
2016	15,932					1,043
2017	13,991					1,094
2018	13,143					1,176
2019	13,644					1,226
2020-2024	70,132					6,780
The Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s assets are measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis.  The Astoria Bank Pension Plan groups its assets at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.  These levels are described in Note 16.  Other than the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s investment in Astoria Financial Corporation common stock, the assets are managed by Prudential Retirement Insurance and Annuity Company, or PRIAC.
The following tables set forth the carrying values of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s assets measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at the dates indicated.
	Carrying Value at December 31, 2014
(In Thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts (1)	$	162,808			$	—			$	162,808			$	—
Astoria Financial Corporation common stock	12,404				12,404				—				—
PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account	11,858				—				—				11,858
Cash and cash equivalents	4				4				—				—
Total	$	187,074			$	12,408			$	162,808			$	11,858
-1	Consists of 41% large-cap equity securities, 38% debt securities, 9% international equities, 7% small-cap equity securities and 5% mid-cap equity securities.
	Carrying Value at December 31, 2013
(In Thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts (1)	$	170,377			$	—			$	170,377			$	—
Astoria Financial Corporation common stock	12,687				12,687				—				—
PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account	6,299				—				—				6,299
Cash and cash equivalents	4				4				—				—
Total	$	189,367			$	12,691			$	170,377			$	6,299
-1	Consists of 41% large-cap equity securities, 35% debt securities, 11% international equities, 8% small-cap equity securities and 5% mid-cap equity securities.
The following table sets forth a summary of changes in the estimated fair value of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s Level 3 assets for the years indicated.
	For the Year Ended December 31,
(In Thousands)		2014						2013
Fair value at beginning of year		$	6,299					$	7,177
Total net gain, realized and unrealized, included in change in net assets (1)		191						21
Purchases		23,925						9,000
Sales		(18,557		)				(9,899		)
Fair value at end of year		$	11,858					$	6,299
-1	Includes unrealized gain related to assets held at December 31, 2014 of $477,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014 and unrealized gain related to assets held at December 31, 2013 of $313,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013.
The following table presents information about significant unobservable inputs related to the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s investment in Level 3 assets at the dates indicated.
	PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account
	Range at December 31,
	2014				2013
Significant unobservable inputs:
Composite market value factor		1.018	-	1.081		0.988	-	1.073
Gross guaranteed crediting rate (1)		2.50%	-	4.00%		2.10%	-	4.35%
_______________________________
-1	Gross guaranteed crediting rates must be greater than or equal to contractual minimum crediting rate.
The overall strategy of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan investment policy is to have a diverse investment portfolio that reasonably spans established risk/return levels, preserves liquidity and provides long-term investment returns equal to or greater than the actuarial assumptions.  The strategy allows for a moderate risk approach in order to achieve greater long-term asset growth.  The asset mix within the various insurance company pooled separate accounts and trust company trust funds can vary but should not be more than 80% in equity securities, 50% in debt securities and 25% in liquidity funds. Within equity securities, the mix is further clarified to have ranges not to exceed 10% in any one company, 30% in any one industry, 50% in funds that mirror the S&P 500, 50% in large-cap equity securities, 20% in mid-cap equity securities, 20% in small-cap equity securities and 10% in international equities.  In addition, up to 15% of total plan assets may be held in Astoria Financial Corporation common stock.  However, the Astoria Bank Pension Plan will not acquire Astoria Financial Corporation common stock to the extent that, immediately after the acquisition, such common stock would represent more than 10% of total plan assets.
The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for the Astoria Bank Pension Plan's assets measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis.
PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts
The fair value of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s investments in the PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts is based on the fair value of the underlying securities included in the pooled separate accounts which consist of equity securities and bonds.  Investments in these accounts are represented by units and a per unit value.  The unit values are calculated by PRIAC.  For the underlying equity securities, PRIAC obtains closing market prices for those securities traded on a national exchange.  For bonds, PRIAC obtains prices from a third party pricing service using inputs such as benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes and issuer spreads.  Prices are reviewed by PRIAC and are challenged if PRIAC believes the price is not reflective of fair value.  There are no restrictions as to the redemption of these pooled separate accounts nor does the Astoria Bank Pension Plan have any contractual obligations to further invest in any of the individual pooled separate accounts.  These investments are classified as Level 2.
Astoria Financial Corporation common stock
The fair value of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s investment in Astoria Financial Corporation common stock is obtained from a quoted market price in an active market and, as such, is classified as Level 1.
PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account
The fair value of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s investment in the PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account is calculated by PRIAC and approximates the fair value of the underlying investments by discounting expected future investment cash flows from both investment income and repayment of principal for each investment purchased directly for the general account.  The discount rates assumed in the calculation reflect both the current level of market rates and spreads appropriate to the quality, average life and type of investment being valued.  PRIAC calculates a contract-specific composite market value factor, which is determined by summing the product of each investment year's market value factor as of the plan year end by the particular contract's balance within the investment year and dividing the result by the contract's total investment year balance. This contract-specific market value factor is then multiplied by the contract value, which represents deposits made to the contract, plus earnings at the guaranteed crediting rates, less withdrawals and fees, to arrive at the estimated fair value. This investment is classified as Level 3.
Cash and cash equivalents
The fair value of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s cash and cash equivalents represents the amount available on demand and, as such, are classified as Level 1.
Incentive Savings Plan
Astoria Bank maintains the 401(k) Plan which provides for contributions by both Astoria Bank and its participating employees.  Under the 401(k) Plan, which is a qualified, defined contribution pension plan, participants may contribute up to 30% of their pre-tax base salary, generally not to exceed $17,500 for the calendar year ended December 31, 2014.  Effective January 1, 2013, Astoria Bank made matching contributions equal to 50% of each employee's contributions not in excess of 6% of each employee's compensation, for a maximum contribution of 3% of a participating employee's compensation. Effective January 1, 2015, Astoria Bank will make matching contributions equal to 100% of each employee's contributions up to 3% of each employee's compensation plus 50% of each employee's contributions over 3% but not in excess of 6% of each employee's compensation for a maximum contribution of 4.5% of a participating employee's compensation.  Matching contributions totaled $2.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 and $2.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.  Participants vest immediately in their own contributions and, effective January 1, 2013, after a period of one year for Astoria Bank contributions.  During 2012, matching contributions were permitted at the discretion of Astoria Bank.  No matching contributions were made for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan
Astoria Bank maintained an ESOP for its eligible employees, which was a defined contribution pension plan.  To fund the purchase of the ESOP shares, the ESOP borrowed funds from us.  Astoria Bank made contributions to fund debt service.  The ESOP loans, which had an aggregated outstanding principal balance of $5.9 million at December 31, 2012, were prepaid in full on December 20, 2013.  The ESOP loans had an interest rate of 6.00%, a maturity date of December 31, 2029 and were collateralized by our common stock purchased with the loan proceeds.
Shares purchased by the ESOP were held in trust for allocation among participants as the loans were repaid.  Pursuant to the loan agreements, the number of shares released annually was based upon a specified percentage of aggregate eligible payroll for our covered employees.  As a result of the prepayment of the ESOP loans in full on December 20, 2013, the remaining 967,013 unallocated shares were released from the pledge agreement and allocated to participants as of December 31, 2013.  Shares allocated to participants totaled 1,075,354 for the year ended December 31, 2012. Through December 31, 2013, 15,068,562 shares were allocated to participants and no shares remained unallocated. Effective December 31, 2013 the ESOP was frozen. As a result, no contributions were made to the ESOP subsequent to December 31, 2013.  On April 1, 2014, the ESOP was merged into the 401(k) Plan.
In addition to shares allocated, Astoria Bank made an annual cash contribution to participant accounts in an amount equal to dividends paid on unallocated shares.  This cash contribution totaled $155,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $513,000 for the year ended December 31, 2012. Compensation expense related to the ESOP totaled $11.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $10.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Stock_Incentive_Plans

Stock Incentive Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Incentive Plans	Stock Incentive Plans
	On May 21, 2014, our shareholders approved the 2014 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan for Officers and Employees of Astoria Financial Corporation, or the 2014 Employee Stock Plan, which amended and restated the 2005 Re-designated, Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan for Officers and Employees of Astoria Financial Corporation, or the 2005 Employee Stock Plan, as of that date.  The 2014 Employee Stock Plan authorized 3,250,000 shares of common stock for future grants to officers and employees on and after May 21, 2014.  In addition, immediately prior to the approval of the 2014 Employee Stock Plan, there remained 507,925 shares available for future grants under the 2005 Employee Stock Plan which were carried over to the 2014 Employee Stock Plan and no further grants may be made under the 2005 Employee Stock Plan. Accordingly, under the 2014 Employee Stock Plan, a total of 3,757,925 shares of common stock were reserved for options, restricted stock, restricted stock units and/or stock appreciation right grants, of which 3,672,764 shares remain available for issuance of future grants at December 31, 2014.
	Employee grants generally occur annually, upon approval by our Board of Directors, on the third business day after we issue a press release announcing annual financial results for the prior year.  Discretionary grants may be made to eligible employees from time to time upon approval by our Board of Directors.  In the event the grantee terminates his/her employment due to death or disability, or in the event we experience a change in control, as defined and specified in the 2014 Employee Stock Plan and the 2005 Employee Stock Plan, all options and restricted common stock granted pursuant to such plans immediately vest, except for a performance-based restricted common stock award granted in 2011 which, in the event of death or disability prior to vesting, will remain outstanding subject to satisfaction of the performance and vesting conditions, unless otherwise settled.
	The following table summarizes employee restricted common stock grant awards by year for grant years with unvested shares outstanding at December 31, 2014 and the remaining vesting schedule.
		2014		2013			2012	2011
	Number of shares of restricted common stock:
	Granted during the year	482,001		494,420			155,000	663,530
	Unvested at December 31, 2014	341,861		154,040			51,500	144,802
	Scheduled to vest during the year ending:
	December 31, 2015	156,137		152,040			51,500	79,802
	December 31, 2016	157,337		2,000			—	65,000		-1
	December 31, 2017	28,387		—			—	—
	_______________________________
	-1	Shares of restricted common stock granted under a performance-based award which will vest on June 30, 2016 if the performance conditions are met.
	In addition to the restricted common stock grants detailed in the table above, performance-based restricted stock units were granted to select officers under the 2005 Employee Stock Plan during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.  Each restricted stock unit granted represents a right, under the 2005 Employee Stock Plan, to receive one share of our common stock in the future, subject to meeting certain criteria.  The restricted stock units have specified performance objectives within a specified performance measurement period and no voting or dividend rights prior to vesting and delivery of shares.  Shares will be issued on the vest date at a specified percentage of units granted, ranging from 0% to 125%, based on actual performance during the performance measurement period, as defined by the grant.  However, in the event of a change in control during the performance measurement period, the restricted stock units will vest on the change in control date and shares will be issued at 100% of units granted.  Absent a change in control, if a grantee’s employment terminates prior to the end of the performance measurement period all restricted stock units will be forfeited.  In the event the grantee's employment terminates during the period on or after the end of the performance measurement period through the vest date due to death, disability, retirement or a change in control, the grantee will remain entitled to the shares otherwise earned.
	The following table summarizes restricted stock units awarded by year for grant years with unvested units outstanding at December 31, 2014.
		2014			2013
	Number of shares of restricted stock units:
	Granted during the year		395,900			432,300
	Unvested at December 31, 2014		382,600			393,900
	Vest date	February 1, 2017			February 1, 2016
	Performance measurement period:
	Fiscal year ended	December 31, 2016			December 31, 2015
	Under the Astoria Financial Corporation 2007 Non-Employee Directors Stock Plan, as amended, or the 2007 Director Stock Plan, 240,080 shares of common stock were reserved for restricted stock grants, of which 32,506 shares of restricted common stock were granted in 2014 and 67,135 shares remain available at December 31, 2014 for issuance of future grants.  Annual awards and discretionary grants, as such terms are defined in the plan, are authorized under the 2007 Director Stock Plan.  Annual awards to non-employee directors occur on the third business day after we issue a press release announcing annual financial results for the prior year.  Discretionary grants may be made to eligible directors from time to time as consideration for services rendered or promised to be rendered.  Such grants are made on such terms and conditions as determined by a committee of independent directors.
	Under the 2007 Director Stock Plan, restricted common stock granted vests approximately three years after the grant date, although awards immediately vest upon death, disability, mandatory retirement, involuntary termination or a change in control, as such terms are defined in the plan.  Shares awarded will be forfeited in the event a recipient ceases to be a director prior to the vest date for any reason other than death, disability, mandatory retirement, involuntary termination or a change in control, as defined in the plan.
	The following table summarizes restricted common stock and performance-based restricted stock unit activity in our stock incentive plans for the year ended December 31, 2014.
		Restricted Common Stock						Restricted Stock Units
		Number of		Weighted Average				Number of			Weighted Average
		Shares		Grant Date Fair Value				Units			Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of year	781,644			$	11.46		409,100				$	9.22
	Granted	514,507			12.58			395,900				12.14
	Vested	(512,042	)		(11.91		)	—				—
	Forfeited	(31,408	)		(11.91		)	(28,500	)			(10.58		)
	Unvested at end of year	752,701			11.9			776,500				10.66
	The aggregate fair value on the vest date of restricted common stock awards which vested totaled $6.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2014, $9.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 and $6.2 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. The weighted average grant date fair value of restricted common stock was $12.58 per share during the year ended December 31, 2014, $9.70 per share during the year ended December 31, 2013 and $9.82 per share during the year ended December 31, 2012.
	Options outstanding at December 31, 2014, granted under plans other than the 2014 Employee Stock Plan, 2005 Employee Stock Plan and 2007 Director Stock Plan, have a maximum term of ten years and were granted in tandem with limited stock appreciation rights exercisable only in the event we experience a change in control, as defined by the plans.  Common shares are issued from treasury stock upon the exercise of stock options.  No options were exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.  We have an adequate number of shares available in treasury stock for future stock option exercises.
	The following table summarizes option activity in our stock incentive plans for the year ended December 31, 2014.
		Number of		Weighted Average
		Options		Exercise Price
	Outstanding at beginning of year	1,102,650			$	26.68
	Expired	(1,066,650	)		(26.62		)
	Outstanding and exercisable at end of year	36,000			28.58
	At December 31, 2014, options outstanding and exercisable had no intrinsic value and a weighted average remaining contractual term of approximately 7 months.
	Stock-based compensation expense totaled $5.6 million, net of taxes of $3.1 million, for the year ended December 31, 2014, $4.5 million, net of taxes of $2.5 million, for the year ended December 31, 2013 and $3.3 million, net of taxes of $1.8 million, for the year ended December 31, 2012.  At December 31, 2014, pre-tax compensation cost related to all unvested awards of restricted common stock and restricted stock units not yet recognized totaled $10.8 million and will be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.8 years, which excludes $1.8 million of pre-tax compensation cost related to 65,000 shares of performance-based restricted common stock granted in 2011 and 98,475 performance-based restricted stock units granted in 2013, for which compensation cost will begin to be recognized when the achievement of the performance conditions becomes probable.
	As a result of the resignation and retirement of several executive officers during the 2012 first quarter, the level of forfeitures in 2012 significantly exceeded our original estimate of restricted common stock forfeitures based on our prior experience.  As a result, we reversed stock-based compensation expense during 2012 totaling $569,000, net of taxes of $310,000, representing stock-based compensation expense previously recognized on unvested shares of restricted common stock which will not vest as a result of forfeitures.

Regulatory_Matters

Regulatory Matters	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Regulatory Capital Requirements [Abstract]
Regulatory Matters	Regulatory Matters
	Federal law requires that savings associations, such as Astoria Bank, maintain minimum capital requirements.  These capital standards are required to be no less stringent than standards applicable to national banks.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, Astoria Bank was in compliance with all regulatory capital requirements.
	The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991, or FDICIA, established a system of prompt corrective action, or the Prompt Corrective Action Provisions, to resolve the problems of undercapitalized institutions.  The regulators adopted rules which require them to take action against undercapitalized institutions, based upon the five categories of capitalization which FDICIA created: “well capitalized,” “adequately capitalized,” “undercapitalized,” “significantly undercapitalized” and “critically undercapitalized.”  The rules adopted generally provide that an insured institution whose capital ratios exceed the specified targets and is not subject to any written agreement, order, capital directive or prompt corrective action directive issued by the primary federal regulator shall be considered a well capitalized institution.  At December 31, 2014 and 2013, all of Astoria Bank’s ratios were above the minimum levels required to be considered well capitalized.
	The following tables set forth information regarding the regulatory capital requirements applicable to Astoria Bank at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Actual				Minimum					To be Well Capitalized
						Capital Requirements					Under Prompt
											Corrective Action
											Provisions
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio
	Tangible	$	1,632,390	10.62	%		$	230,633	1.5	%		N/A		N/A
	Tier 1 leverage	1,632,390		10.62			615,022		4			$	768,777	5	%
	Tier 1 risk-based	1,632,390		17.55			372,118		4			558,177		6
	Total risk-based	1,744,905		18.76			744,236		8			930,295		10
		At December 31, 2013
		Actual				Minimum					To be Well Capitalized
						Capital Requirements					Under Prompt
											Corrective Action
											Provisions
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio
	Tangible	$	1,543,764	9.93	%		$	233,158	1.5	%		N/A		N/A
	Tier 1 leverage	1,543,764		9.93			621,755		4			$	777,194	5	%
	Tier 1 risk-based	1,543,764		15.79			391,083		4			586,625		6
	Total risk-based	1,666,637		17.05			782,167		8			977,708		10
	Pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, or the Reform Act, in July 2013, the federal bank regulatory agencies issued rules that subjected many savings and loan holding companies, including Astoria Financial Corporation, to consolidated capital requirements. The rules also revised the quantity and quality of required minimum risk-based and leverage capital requirements, consistent with the Reform Act and the Third Basel Accord adopted by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision.  In doing so, the rules:
	•                Established a new minimum common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio (common equity Tier 1 capital to total risk-weighted assets) of 4.5% and increased the minimum Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio from 4.0% to 6.0%, while maintaining the minimum Total risk-based capital ratio of 8.0% and the minimum Tier 1 leverage capital ratio of 4.0%.
	•                Revised the rules for calculating risk-weighted assets to enhance their risk sensitivity.
	•                Phased out trust preferred securities and cumulative perpetual preferred stock as Tier 1 capital.
	•                Added a requirement to maintain a minimum Conservation Buffer, composed of common equity Tier 1 capital, of 2.5% of risk-weighted assets, to be applied to the new common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio, the Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio and the Total risk-based capital ratio, which means that banking organizations, on a fully phased in basis no later than January 1, 2019, must maintain a minimum common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 7.0%, a minimum Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 8.5% and a minimum Total risk-based capital ratio of 10.5%.
	•                Changed the definitions of capital categories for insured depository institutions for purposes of the Prompt Corrective Action Provisions.  Under these revised definitions, to be considered well-capitalized, Astoria Bank must have a common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 6.5%, a Tier 1 leverage capital ratio of at least 5.0%, a Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 8.0% and a Total risk-based capital ratio of at least 10.0%.
	The new minimum regulatory capital ratios and changes to the calculation of risk-weighted assets became effective for Astoria Financial Corporation and Astoria Bank on January 1, 2015.  The required minimum Conservation Buffer will be phased in incrementally, starting at 0.625% on January 1, 2016 and increasing to 1.25% on January 1, 2017, 1.875% on January 1, 2018 and 2.5% on January 1, 2019. The rules impose restrictions on capital distributions and certain discretionary cash bonus payments if the minimum Conservation Buffer is not met.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements
	We use fair value measurements to record fair value adjustments to certain assets and liabilities and to determine fair value disclosures.  We group our assets and liabilities at fair value in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.  These levels are:
	•                Level 1 – Valuation is based upon quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active markets.
	•                Level 2 – Valuation is based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market.
	•                Level 3 – Valuation is generated from model-based techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market.  These unobservable assumptions reflect estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability.  Valuation techniques include the use of option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques.  The results cannot be determined with precision and may not be realized in an actual sale or immediate settlement of the asset or liability.
	We base our fair values on the estimated price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, with additional considerations when the volume and level of activity for an asset or liability have significantly decreased and on identifying circumstances that indicate a transaction is not orderly.  We maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.
	Recurring Fair Value Measurements
	Our securities available-for-sale portfolio is carried at estimated fair value on a recurring basis, with any unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income/loss in stockholders’ equity.  Additionally, in connection with our mortgage banking activities we have commitments to fund loans held-for-sale and commitments to sell loans, which are considered free-standing derivative financial instruments, the fair values of which are not material to our financial condition or results of operations.
	The following tables set forth the carrying values of our assets measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at the dates indicated.
		Carrying Value at December 31, 2014
	(In Thousands)	Total			Level 1						Level 2
	Securities available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	268,998			$	—				$	268,998
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	5,104				—					5,104
	GSE pass-through certificates	13,557				—					13,557
	Obligations of GSEs	96,698				—					96,698
	Fannie Mae stock	2				2					—
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	384,359			$	2				$	384,357
		Carrying Value at December 31, 2013
	(In Thousands)	Total			Level 1						Level 2
	Securities available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	286,074			$	—				$	286,074
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	7,572				—					7,572
	GSE pass-through certificates	16,888				—					16,888
	Obligations of GSEs	91,153				—					91,153
	Fannie Mae stock	3				3					—
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	401,690			$	3				$	401,687
	The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for assets measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis.
	Residential mortgage-backed securities
	Residential mortgage-backed securities comprised 75% of our securities available-for-sale portfolio at December 31, 2014 and 77% at December 31, 2013.  The fair values for these securities are obtained from an independent nationally recognized pricing service.  Our pricing service uses various modeling techniques to determine pricing for our mortgage-backed securities, including option pricing and discounted cash flow models.  The inputs to these models include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker/dealer quotes, issuer spreads, benchmark securities, bids, offers, reference data, monthly payment information and collateral performance.  GSE securities, for which an active market exists for similar securities making observable inputs readily available, comprised 98% of our available-for-sale residential mortgage-backed securities portfolio at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	We review changes in the pricing service fair values from month to month taking into consideration changes in market conditions including changes in mortgage spreads, changes in treasury yields and changes in generic pricing on 15 and 30 year securities.  Significant month over month price changes are analyzed further using discounted cash flow models and, on occasion, third party quotes.  Based upon our review of the prices provided by our pricing service, the estimated fair values incorporate observable market inputs commonly used by buyers and sellers of these types of securities at the measurement date in orderly transactions between market participants, and, as such, are classified as Level 2.
	Obligations of GSEs
	Obligations of GSEs comprised 25% of our securities available-for-sale portfolio at December 31, 2014 and 23% at December 31, 2013 and consisted of debt securities issued by GSEs.  The fair values for these securities are obtained from an independent nationally recognized pricing service.  Our pricing service gathers information from market sources and integrates relative credit information, observed market movements and sector news into their pricing applications and models.  Spread scales, representing credit risk, are created and are based on the new issue market, secondary trading and dealer quotes.  Option adjusted spread, or OAS,  models are incorporated to adjust spreads of issues that have early redemption features.  Based upon our review of the prices provided by our pricing service, the estimated fair values incorporate observable market inputs commonly used by buyers and sellers of these types of securities at the measurement date in orderly transactions between market participants, and, as such, are classified as Level 2.
	Fannie Mae stock
	The fair value of the Fannie Mae stock in our available-for-sale securities portfolio is obtained from quoted market prices for identical instruments in active markets and, as such, is classified as Level 1.
	Non-Recurring Fair Value Measurements
	From time to time, we may be required to record at fair value assets or liabilities on a non-recurring basis, such as MSR, loans receivable, certain loans held-for-sale and REO.  These non-recurring fair value adjustments involve the application of lower of cost or market accounting or impairment write-downs of individual assets.
	The following table sets forth the carrying values of those of our assets which were measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at the dates indicated.  The fair value measurements for all of these assets fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
		Carrying Value at December 31,
	(In Thousands)		2014					2013
	Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net		$	153				$	791
	Impaired loans		140,663					271,408
	MSR, net		11,401					12,800
	REO, net		19,375					27,101
	Total		$	171,592				$	312,100
	The following table provides information regarding the losses recognized on our assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013				2012
	Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net (1)	$	—		$	520			$	1,066
	Impaired loans (2)	6,311			21,992				40,018
	MSR, net (3)	—			—				931
	REO, net (4)	1,654			3,788				3,137
	Total	$	7,965		$	26,300			$	45,152
	-1	Losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses in the case of a write-down upon the transfer of a loan to held-for-sale.  Losses subsequent to the transfer of a loan to held-for-sale are charged to other non-interest income.
	-2	Losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses.
	-3	Losses are charged to mortgage banking income, net.
	-4	Losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses in the case of a write-down upon the transfer of a loan to REO.  Losses subsequent to the transfer of a loan to REO are charged to REO expense which is a component of other non-interest expense.
	The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis.
	Loans-held-for-sale, net (non-performing loans held-for-sale)
	Fair values of non-performing loans held-for-sale are estimated through either preliminary bids from potential purchasers of the loans or the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral discounted for factors necessary to solicit acceptable bids, and adjusted as necessary based on management’s experience with sales of similar types of loans and, as such, are classified as Level 3.  At December 31, 2014, we held-for-sale one non-performing multi-family mortgage loan. At December 31, 2013, substantially all of the non-performing loans held-for-sale were multi-family mortgage loans.
	Loans receivable, net (impaired loans)
	Impaired loans were comprised of 73% residential mortgage loans, 25% multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans and 2% home equity lines of credit at December 31, 2014 and 81% residential mortgage loans and 19% multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans at December 31, 2013.  Impaired loans for which a fair value adjustment was recognized were comprised of 69% residential mortgage loans, 30% multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans and 1% home equity lines of credit at December 31, 2014 and 83% residential mortgage loans and 17% multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans at December 31, 2013.  Our impaired loans are generally collateral dependent and, as such, are generally carried at the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated selling costs.
We obtain updated estimates of collateral values on residential mortgage loans at 180 days past due and earlier in certain instances, including for loans to borrowers who have filed for bankruptcy, and, to the extent the loans remain delinquent, annually thereafter.  Updated estimates of collateral value on residential loans are obtained primarily through automated valuation models.  Additionally, our loan servicer performs property inspections to monitor and manage the collateral on our residential loans when they become 45 days past due and monthly thereafter until the foreclosure process is complete.  We obtain updated estimates of collateral value using third party appraisals on non-performing multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans when the loans initially become non-performing and annually thereafter and multi-family and commercial real estate loans modified in a TDR at the time of the modification and annually thereafter.  Appraisals on multi-family and commercial real estate loans are reviewed by our internal certified appraisers.  Adjustments to final appraised values obtained from independent third party appraisers and automated valuation models are not made.  The fair values of impaired loans cannot be determined with precision and may not be realized in an actual sale or immediate settlement of the loan and, as such, are classified as Level 3.
MSR, net
MSR are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value.  The estimated fair value of MSR is obtained through independent third party valuations through an analysis of future cash flows, incorporating estimates of assumptions market participants would use in determining fair value including market discount rates, prepayment speeds, servicing income, servicing costs, default rates and other market driven data, including the market’s perception of future interest rate movements and, as such, are classified as Level 3.  At December 31, 2014, our MSR were valued based on expected future cash flows considering a weighted average discount rate of 9.48%, a weighted average constant prepayment rate on mortgages of 12.35% and a weighted average life of 5.7 years.  At December 31, 2013, our MSR were valued based on expected future cash flows considering a weighted average discount rate of 9.45%, a weighted average constant prepayment rate on mortgages of 10.52% and a weighted average life of 6.3 years.  Management reviews the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of MSR to ensure they reflect current and anticipated market conditions.
The fair value of MSR is highly sensitive to changes in assumptions.  Changes in prepayment speed assumptions generally have the most significant impact on the fair value of our MSR.  Generally, as interest rates decline, mortgage loan prepayments accelerate due to increased refinance activity, which results in a decrease in the fair value of MSR.  As interest rates rise, mortgage loan prepayments slow down, which results in an increase in the fair value of MSR.  Thus, any measurement of the fair value of our MSR is limited by the conditions existing and the assumptions utilized as of a particular point in time, and those assumptions may not be appropriate if they are applied at a different point in time.
REO, net
At December 31, 2014, REO totaled $35.7 million, including residential properties with a carrying value of $33.7 million. At December 31, 2013, REO totaled $42.6 million, all of which were residential properties.  The fair value of REO is estimated through current appraisals, in conjunction with a drive-by inspection and comparison of the REO property with similar properties in the area by either a licensed appraiser or real estate broker.  As these properties are actively marketed, estimated fair values are periodically adjusted by management to reflect current market conditions and, as such, are classified as Level 3.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Quoted market prices available in formal trading marketplaces are typically the best evidence of the fair value of financial instruments.  In many cases, financial instruments we hold are not bought or sold in formal trading marketplaces.  Accordingly, fair values are derived or estimated based on a variety of valuation techniques in the absence of quoted market prices.  Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information about the financial instrument.  These estimates do not reflect any possible tax ramifications, estimated transaction costs, or any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time our entire holdings of a particular financial instrument.  Because no market exists for a certain portion of our financial instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments regarding future loss experience, current economic conditions, risk characteristics and other such factors.  These estimates are subjective in nature, involve uncertainties and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision.  Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.  For these reasons and others, the estimated fair value disclosures presented herein do not represent our entire underlying value.  As such, readers are cautioned in using this information for purposes of evaluating our financial condition and/or value either alone or in comparison with any other company.
The following tables set forth the carrying values and estimated fair values of our financial instruments which are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at either cost or at lower of cost or fair value in accordance with GAAP, and are not measured or recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at the dates indicated.
	At December 31, 2014
	Carrying			Estimated Fair Value
(In Thousands)	Value			Total				Level 2				Level 3
Financial Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity	$	2,133,804		$	2,131,371			$	2,131,371			$	—
FHLB-NY stock	140,754			140,754				140,754				—
Loans held-for-sale, net (1)	7,640			7,955				—				7,955
Loans receivable, net (1)	11,845,848			11,967,608				—				11,967,608
MSR, net (1)	11,401			11,406				—				11,406
Financial Liabilities:
Deposits	9,504,909			9,534,918				9,534,918				—
Borrowings, net	4,187,691			4,395,604				4,395,604				—
	At December 31, 2013
	Carrying			Estimated Fair Value
(In Thousands)	Value			Total				Level 2				Level 3
Financial Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity	$	1,849,526		$	1,811,122			$	1,811,122			$	—
FHLB-NY stock	152,207			152,207				152,207				—
Loans held-for-sale, net (1)	7,375			7,436				—				7,436
Loans receivable, net (1)	12,303,066			12,480,533				—				12,480,533
MSR, net (1)	12,800			12,804				—				12,804
Financial Liabilities:
Deposits	9,855,310			9,922,631				9,922,631				—
Borrowings, net	4,137,161			4,376,336				4,376,336				—
_______________________________
-1	Includes assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis.
The following is a description of the methods and assumptions used to estimate fair values of our financial instruments which are not measured or recorded at fair value on a recurring or non-recurring basis.
Securities held-to-maturity
The fair values for substantially all of our securities held-to-maturity are obtained from an independent nationally recognized pricing service using similar methods and assumptions as used for our securities available-for-sale which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.
FHLB-NY stock
The fair value of FHLB-NY stock is based on redemption at par value.
Loans held-for-sale, net
The fair values of 15 and 30 year conforming fixed rate residential mortgage loans originated for sale are estimated using an option-based pricing methodology designed to take into account interest rate volatility, which has a significant effect on the value of the options and structural features embedded in loans.  This methodology involves generating simulated interest rates, calculating the OAS of a mortgage-backed security whose price is known, which serves as a benchmark price, and using the benchmark OAS to estimate the pricing for similar mortgage instruments whose prices are not known.
Loans receivable, net
Fair values of loans are estimated using an option-based pricing methodology designed to take into account interest rate volatility, which has a significant effect on the value of the options and structural features embedded in loans.  This pricing methodology involves generating simulated interest rates, calculating the OAS of a mortgage-backed security whose price is known, which serves as a benchmark price, and using the benchmark OAS to estimate the pricing for similar mortgage instruments whose prices are not known.
This technique of estimating fair value is extremely sensitive to the assumptions and estimates used.  While we have attempted to use assumptions and estimates which are the most reflective of the loan portfolio and the current market, a greater degree of subjectivity is inherent in determining these fair values than for fair values obtained from formal trading marketplaces.  In addition, our valuation method for loans, which is consistent with accounting guidance, does not fully incorporate an exit price approach to fair value.
Deposits
The fair values of deposits with no stated maturity, such as savings, money market and NOW and demand deposit accounts, are equal to the amount payable on demand.  The fair values of certificates of deposit are based on discounted contractual cash flows using the weighted average remaining life of the portfolio discounted by the corresponding LIBOR Swap Curve.
Borrowings, net
The fair values of borrowings are based upon third party dealers’ estimated market values which are reviewed by management quarterly using an OAS model.
Outstanding commitments
Outstanding commitments include commitments to extend credit and unadvanced lines of credit for which fair values were estimated based on an analysis of the interest rates and fees currently charged to enter into similar transactions.  The fair values of these commitments are immaterial to our financial condition.

Condensed_Parent_Company_Only_

Condensed Parent Company Only Financial Statements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Parent Company Only Financial Statements	Condensed Parent Company Only Financial Statements
	The following condensed parent company only financial statements reflect our investments in our wholly-owned consolidated subsidiaries, Astoria Bank and AF Insurance Agency, Inc., using the equity method of accounting.
	Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Financial Condition
		At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013
	Assets:
	Cash	$	75,199		$	63,418
	Other assets	711			103
	Investment in Astoria Bank	1,755,078			1,705,964
	Investment in AF Insurance Agency, Inc.	1,134			1,233
	Total assets	$	1,832,122		$	1,770,718
	Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
	Other borrowings, net	$	248,691		$	248,161
	Other liabilities	3,361			3,044
	Stockholders’ equity	1,580,070			1,519,513
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	1,832,122		$	1,770,718
	Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Income
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Interest income:
	Repurchase agreements	$	—		$	—		$	18
	ESOP loans receivable	—			344			728
	Total interest income	—			344			746
	Interest expense on borrowings	13,031			17,398			29,689
	Net interest expense	13,031			17,054			28,943
	Cash dividends from subsidiaries	40,620			45,150			42,000
	Non-interest expense:
	Compensation and benefits	2,925			3,261			3,735
	Extinguishment of debt	—			4,266			1,212
	Other	3,262			3,148			2,878
	Total non-interest expense	6,187			10,675			7,825
	Income before income taxes and equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	21,402			17,421			5,232
	Income tax benefit	6,662			9,644			12,844
	Income before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	28,064			27,065			18,076
	Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	67,852			39,528			35,015
	Net income	95,916			66,593			53,091
	Preferred stock dividends	8,775			7,214			—
	Net income available to common shareholders	$	87,141		$	59,379		$	53,091
	Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Cash flows from operating activities:
	Net income	$	95,916		$	66,593		$	53,091
	Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
	Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	(67,852		)	(39,528		)	(35,015		)
	Amortization of deferred costs	531			531			837
	(Increase) decrease in other assets, net of other liabilities and amounts due to subsidiaries	(484		)	(998		)	846
	Net cash provided by operating activities	28,111			26,598			19,759
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Principal payments on ESOP loans receivable	—			5,908			6,235
	Redemption of Astoria Capital Trust I common securities	—			3,866			—
	Net cash provided by investing activities	—			9,774			6,235
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Proceeds from borrowings with original terms greater than three months	—			—			250,000
	Repayment of borrowings with original terms greater than three months	—			(128,866		)	(250,000		)
	Cash payments for debt issuance costs	—			—			(2,653		)
	Proceeds from issuance of common and preferred stock	8,121			135,000			—
	Cash payments for preferred stock issuance costs	—			(5,204		)	—
	Cash dividends paid to stockholders	(24,643		)	(20,688		)	(24,104		)
	Net tax benefit excess (shortfall) from stock-based compensation	192			(800		)	(4,123		)
	Net cash used in financing activities	(16,330		)	(20,558		)	(30,880		)
	Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	11,781			15,814			(4,886		)
	Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	63,418			47,604			52,490
	Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	75,199		$	63,418		$	47,604
Supplemental disclosure:
Cash paid during the year for interest	$	12,500		$	18,898		$	31,535

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	The following significant accounting and reporting policies of Astoria Financial Corporation and subsidiaries conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, and are used in preparing and presenting these consolidated financial statements.
Consolidation	The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Astoria Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Astoria Bank and its subsidiaries, referred to as Astoria Bank, and AF Insurance Agency, Inc.  AF Insurance Agency, Inc. is a licensed life insurance agency which, through contractual agreements with various third parties, makes insurance products available primarily to the customers of Astoria Bank.  As used in this annual report, “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Astoria Financial Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries.  All significant inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	In addition to Astoria Bank and AF Insurance Agency, Inc., we had another subsidiary, Astoria Capital Trust I, which was not consolidated with Astoria Financial Corporation for financial reporting purposes.  On May 14, 2013, we filed a Certificate of Cancellation of Certificate of Trust of Astoria Capital Trust I with the Delaware Secretary of State.  See Note 7 for further discussion of Astoria Capital Trust I.
Use Of Estimates	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues, expenses and other comprehensive income/loss during the reporting periods.  The estimate of our allowance for loan losses, the valuation of mortgage servicing rights, or MSR, judgments regarding goodwill and securities impairment and the estimates related to our income taxes and pension plans and other postretirement benefits are particularly critical because they are important to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations, involve a higher degree of complexity and require management to make difficult and subjective judgments which often require assumptions and estimates about highly uncertain matters.  Actual results may differ from our assumptions, estimates and judgments.  Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts to conform to the current year presentation.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	For the purpose of reporting cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash and due from banks and repurchase agreements with original maturities of three months or less.  We may purchase securities under agreements to resell (repurchase agreements).  These agreements represent short-term loans and are reflected as an asset in the consolidated statements of financial condition. There were no repurchase agreements outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Astoria Bank is required by the Federal Reserve System to maintain cash reserves equal to a percentage of certain deposits.  The reserve requirement totaled $42.2 million at December 31, 2014 and $37.7 million at December 31, 2013.
Securities	Securities
	Securities are classified as held-to-maturity, available-for-sale or trading.  Management determines the appropriate classification of securities at the time of acquisition.  Our securities available-for-sale portfolio is carried at estimated fair value on a recurring basis, with any unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, reported as accumulated other comprehensive income/loss in stockholders’ equity.  Debt securities which we have the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity and are carried at amortized cost.  Premiums and discounts are recognized as adjustments to interest income using the interest method over the remaining period to contractual maturity, adjusted for prepayments.  Gains and losses on the sale of all securities are determined using the specific identification method and are reflected in earnings when realized.  For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we did not maintain a trading securities portfolio.  We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of the securities portfolio to determine if a decline in the fair value of any security below its cost basis is other-than-temporary.  Our evaluation of other-than-temporary impairment, or OTTI, considers the duration and severity of the impairment, our assessments of the reason for the decline in value, the likelihood of a near-term recovery and our intent and ability to not sell the securities.  If such decline is deemed other-than-temporary, the security is written down to a new cost basis and the resulting loss is charged to earnings as a component of non-interest income, except for the amount of the total OTTI for a debt security that does not represent credit losses which is recognized in other comprehensive income/loss, net of applicable taxes.
Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Stock	Federal Home Loan Bank of New York Stock
	As a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, or FHLB-NY, we are required to acquire and hold shares of the FHLB-NY Class B stock.  Our holding requirement varies based on our activities, primarily our outstanding borrowings, with the FHLB-NY.  Our investment in FHLB-NY stock is carried at cost.  We conduct a periodic review and evaluation of our FHLB-NY stock to determine if any impairment exists.
Loans Held-for-Sale	Loans Held-for-Sale
	Loans held-for-sale, net, includes 15 and 30 year fixed rate one-to-four family, or residential, mortgage loans originated for sale that conform to government-sponsored enterprise, or GSE, guidelines (conforming loans), as well as certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans.
	Generally, we originate 15 and 30 year conforming fixed rate residential mortgage loans for sale to various GSEs or other investors on a servicing released or retained basis.  The sale of such loans is generally arranged through a master commitment on a mandatory delivery or best efforts basis.  Loans held-for-sale are carried at the lower of cost or estimated fair value, as determined on an aggregate basis.  Net unrealized losses, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings.  Premiums and discounts and origination fees and costs on loans held-for-sale are deferred and recognized as a component of the gain or loss on sale.  Gains and losses on sales of loans held-for-sale are included in mortgage banking income, net, recognized on settlement dates and are determined by the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the loans.  These transactions are accounted for as sales based on our satisfaction of the criteria for such accounting which provide that, as transferor, we have surrendered control over the loans.
	Upon our decision to sell certain delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans held in portfolio, we transfer them to held-for-sale at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs.  Reductions in carrying values are reflected as a write-down of the recorded investment in the loans resulting in a new cost basis, with credit-related losses charged to the allowance for loan losses.  Such loans are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date.  Lower of cost or market write-downs, if any, are recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings.  Increases in the fair value of non-performing loans held-for-sale are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowances.  Lower of cost or market write-downs and recoveries are included in other non-interest income along with gains and losses recognized on sales of such loans.  Our delinquent and non-performing loans are sold without recourse, except as discussed in Note 9, and we do not provide financing.
Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses	Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses
	Loans receivable are carried at the unpaid principal balances, net of unamortized premiums and discounts and deferred loan origination costs and fees, which are recognized as yield adjustments using the interest method.  We amortize these amounts over the contractual life of the related loans, adjusted for prepayments.  Our loans receivable represent our financing receivables.
	We discontinue accruing interest on loans when they become 90 days past due as to their payment due date and at the time a loan is deemed a troubled debt restructuring, or TDR.  We may also discontinue accruing interest on certain other loans because of deterioration in financial or other conditions of the borrower.  In addition, we reverse all previously accrued and uncollected interest through a charge to interest income.  While loans are in non-accrual status, interest due is monitored and, presuming we deem the remaining recorded investment in the loan to be fully collectible, income is recognized only to the extent cash is received until a return to accrual status is warranted.  In some circumstances, we may continue to accrue interest on mortgage loans past due 90 days or more, primarily as to their maturity date but not their interest due.  In other cases, we may defer recognition of income until the principal balance has been recovered.
	We may agree, in certain instances, to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan.  In cases where such modifications represent a concession to a borrower experiencing financial difficulty, the modification is considered a TDR.  Modifications as a result of a TDR may include, but are not limited to, interest rate modifications, payment deferrals, restructuring of payments to interest-only from amortizing and/or extensions of maturity dates.  Modifications which result in insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls are generally not classified as a TDR.  Residential mortgage loans discharged in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing, or bankruptcy loans, are also reported as loans modified in a TDR as relief granted by a court is also viewed as a concession to the borrower in the loan agreement.  Loans modified in a TDR are individually classified as impaired loans and are initially placed on non-accrual status regardless of their delinquency status.  Loans modified in a TDR remain in non-accrual status until we determine that future collection of principal and interest is reasonably assured.  Where we have agreed to modify the contractual terms of a borrower’s loan, we require the borrower to demonstrate performance according to the restructured terms, generally for a period of at least six months, prior to returning the loan to accrual status.  Loans modified in a TDR which have been returned to accrual status are excluded from non-performing loans but remain classified as impaired.
	We establish and maintain an allowance for loan losses based on our evaluation of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio.  Loan charge-offs in the period the loans, or portions thereof, are deemed uncollectible reduce the allowance for loan losses.  Recoveries of amounts previously charged-off increase the allowance for loan losses in the period they are received. The allowance is adjusted through provisions for loan losses charged or credited to operations to increase or decrease the allowance, based on a comprehensive analysis of our loan portfolio.  We evaluate the adequacy of the allowance on a quarterly basis.  The allowance is comprised of both valuation allowances related to individual loans and general valuation allowances, although the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio.  In estimating specific allocations of the allowance, we review loans deemed to be impaired and measure impairment losses based on either the fair value of the collateral, the present value of expected future cash flows, or the observable market price of the loan.  A loan is considered impaired when, based upon current information and events, it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due, including principal and interest, according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement.  When an impairment analysis indicates the need for a specific allocation of the allowance on an individual loan, such allocation would be established sufficient to cover probable incurred losses at the evaluation date based on the facts and circumstances of the loan.  When available information confirms that specific loans, or portions thereof, are uncollectible, these amounts are charged-off against the allowance for loan losses. For loans individually classified as impaired, the portion of the recorded investment in the loan in excess of the present value of the discounted cash flows of a modified loan or, for collateral dependent loans, the portion of the recorded investment in the loan in excess of the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral less estimated selling costs, is charged-off.
	Residential mortgage and home equity and other consumer loan portfolios are generally reviewed collectively by delinquency and net loss trends. However, our residential mortgage loans are individually evaluated for impairment at 180 days past due and earlier in certain instances, including for loans to borrowers who have filed for bankruptcy, and, to the extent the loans remain delinquent, annually thereafter.  Updated estimates of collateral values on residential loans are obtained primarily through automated valuation models.
	Estimated losses for loans that are not individually deemed to be impaired are determined on a loan pool basis using our historical loss experience and various other qualitative factors and comprise our general valuation allowances.  General valuation allowances represent loss allowances that have been established to recognize the inherent risks associated with our lending activities which, unlike individual valuation allowances, have not been allocated to particular loans.  The determination of the adequacy of the general valuation allowances takes into consideration a variety of factors.
	We segment our residential mortgage loan portfolio by interest-only and amortizing loans, full documentation and reduced documentation loans and origination time periods and analyze our historical loss experience and delinquency levels and trends of these segments.  We analyze multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans by portfolio, geographic location and origination time periods.  We analyze our consumer and other loan portfolio by home equity lines of credit, commercial and industrial loans and other consumer loans and perform similar historical loss analyses.  In our analysis of non-performing loans, we consider our aggregate historical loss experience with respect to the ultimate disposition of the underlying collateral along with the migration of delinquent loans based on the portfolio segments noted above.  These analyses and the resulting loss rates are used as an integral part of our judgment in developing estimated loss percentages to apply to the loan portfolio segments. We monitor credit risk on interest-only hybrid adjustable rate mortgage, or ARM, loans that were underwritten at the initial note rate, which may have been a discounted rate, in the same manner that we monitor credit risk on all interest-only hybrid ARM loans.  We monitor interest rate reset dates of our loan portfolio, in the aggregate, and the current interest rate environment and consider the impact, if any, on borrowers’ ability to continue to make timely principal and interest payments in determining our allowance for loan losses.  We also consider the size, composition, risk profile and delinquency levels of our loan portfolio, as well as our credit administration and asset management procedures.  We monitor property value trends in our market areas by reference to various industry and market reports, economic releases and surveys, and our general and specific knowledge of the real estate markets in which we lend, in order to determine what impact, if any, such trends may have on the level of our general valuation allowances.  In addition, we evaluate and consider the impact that current and anticipated economic and market conditions may have on the loan portfolio and known and inherent risks in the portfolio.  We update our analyses quarterly and refine our evaluations as experience provides clearer guidance, our product offerings change and as economic conditions evolve.
	We analyze our historical loss experience over 12, 15, 18 and 24 month periods. The loss history used in calculating our quantitative allowance coverage percentages varies based on loan type.  Also, for a particular loan type we may not have sufficient loss history to develop a reasonable estimate of loss and consider our loss experience for other, similar loan types and may evaluate those losses over a longer period than two years.  Additionally, multi-family and commercial real estate loss experience may be adjusted based on the composition of the losses (loan sales, short sales and partial charge-offs).  Our evaluation of loss experience factors considers trends in such factors over the prior two years for substantially all of the loan portfolio, with the exception of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loans originated after 2010, for which our evaluation includes detailed modeling techniques.  These modeling techniques utilize data inputs for each loan in the portfolio, including credit facility terms and performance to date, property details and borrower financial performance data. The model also incorporates real estate market data from an established real estate market database company to forecast future performance of the properties, and includes a loan loss predictive model based on studies of defaulted commercial real estate loans. The model then generates a probability of default, loss given default and ultimately an estimated loss for each loan quarterly over the remaining life of the loan. The appropriate timeframe from which to assign an estimated loss percentage to the pool of loans is assessed by management. We update our historical loss analyses quarterly and evaluate the need to modify our quantitative allowances as a result of our updated charge-off and loss analyses.
	We consider qualitative factors with the purpose of assessing the adequacy of the overall allowance for loan losses as well as the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by loan category.  The qualitative factors we consider generally include, but are not limited to, changes in (1) lending policies and procedures, (2) economic and business conditions and developments that affect collectibility of our loan portfolio, (3) the nature and volume of our loan portfolio and in the terms of loans, (4) the experience, ability and depth of lending management and other staff, (5) the volume and severity of past due, non-accrual and adversely classified loans, (6) the quality of the loan review system, (7) the value of underlying collateral, (8) the existence or effect of any credit concentrations and (9) external factors such as competition and legal or regulatory requirements.  In addition to the nine qualitative factors noted, we also review certain analytical information such as our coverage ratios and peer analysis.
	Allowance adequacy calculations are adjusted quarterly, based on the results of our quantitative and qualitative analyses, to reflect our current estimates of the amount of probable losses inherent in our loan portfolio in determining our allowance for loan losses.  Allocations of the allowance to each loan category are adjusted quarterly to reflect probable inherent losses using the same quantitative and qualitative analyses used in connection with the overall allowance adequacy calculations.  The portion of the allowance allocated to each loan category does not represent the total available to absorb losses which may occur within the loan category, since the total allowance for loan losses is available for losses applicable to the entire loan portfolio. The balance of our allowance for loan losses represents management’s best estimate of the probable inherent losses in our loan portfolio at December 31, 2014 and 2013.  Actual results could differ from our estimates as a result of changes in economic or market conditions.  Changes in estimates could result in a material change in the allowance for loan losses.  While we believe that the allowance for loan losses has been established and maintained at levels that reflect the risks inherent in our loan portfolio, future adjustments may be necessary if portfolio performance or economic or market conditions differ substantially from the conditions that existed at the time of the initial determinations.
Mortgage Servicing Rights	Mortgage Servicing Rights
	We recognize as separate assets the rights to service mortgage loans.  The right to service loans for others is generally obtained through the sale of residential mortgage loans with servicing retained.  The initial asset recognized for originated MSR is measured at fair value.  The fair value of MSR is estimated by reference to current market values of similar loans sold servicing released.  MSR are amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income.  We apply the amortization method for measurements of our MSR.  MSR are assessed for impairment based on fair value at each reporting date.  MSR impairment, if any, is recognized in a valuation allowance through charges to earnings.  Increases in the fair value of impaired MSR are recognized only up to the amount of the previously recognized valuation allowance.  Fees earned for servicing loans are reported as income, as a component of mortgage banking income, net, in the consolidated statements of income, when the related mortgage loan payments are collected.
	We assess impairment of our MSR based on the estimated fair value of those rights on a stratum-by-stratum basis with any impairment recognized through a valuation allowance for each impaired stratum.  We stratify our MSR by underlying loan type (primarily fixed and adjustable) and interest rate.  Individual allowances for each stratum are then adjusted in subsequent periods to reflect changes in the measurement of impairment.
	We outsource the servicing of our residential mortgage loan portfolio, including our portfolio of mortgage loans serviced for other investors, to an unrelated third party under a sub-servicing agreement.  Fees paid under the sub-servicing agreement are reported as a component of occupancy, equipment and systems expense in the consolidated statements of income.
Premises and Equipment	Premises and Equipment
	Land is carried at cost.  Buildings and improvements, leasehold improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are carried at cost, less accumulated depreciation and amortization totaling $203.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $194.1 million at December 31, 2013.  Buildings and improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets.  Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the term of the related leases or the estimated useful lives of the improved property.
Goodwill	Goodwill
	Goodwill is presumed to have an indefinite useful life and is tested, at least annually, for impairment at the reporting unit level.  If the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, further evaluation is not necessary.  However, if the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, further evaluation is required to compare the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill to its carrying amount to determine if a write-down of goodwill is required.  Impairment exists when the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.
	For purposes of our goodwill impairment testing, we have identified a single reporting unit.  We consider the quoted market price of our common stock on our impairment testing date as an initial indicator of estimating the fair value of our reporting unit.  We also consider our average stock price, both before and after our impairment test date, as well as market-based control premiums in determining the estimated fair value of our reporting unit.  In addition to our internal goodwill impairment analysis, we periodically obtain a goodwill impairment analysis from an independent third party valuation firm.  The independent third party utilizes multiple valuation approaches including comparable transactions, control premium, public market peers and discounted cash flow.  Management reviews the assumptions and inputs used in the third party analysis for reasonableness. At December 31, 2014, the carrying amount of our goodwill totaled $185.2 million.  As of September 30, 2014, we performed our annual goodwill impairment test internally and obtained an independent third party analysis and concluded there was no goodwill impairment.  We would test our goodwill for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount.  No events have occurred and no circumstances have changed since our annual impairment test date that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of our reporting unit below its carrying amount.  The identification of additional reporting units, the use of other valuation techniques or changes to the input assumptions used in our analysis or the analysis by our third party valuation firm could result in materially different evaluations of impairment.
Bank Owned Life Insurance	Bank Owned Life Insurance
	Bank owned life insurance, or BOLI, is carried at the amount that could be realized under our life insurance contract as of the date of the statement of financial condition and is classified as a non-interest-earning asset.  Increases in the carrying value are recorded as non-interest income and insurance proceeds received are recorded as a reduction of the carrying value.  The carrying value consisted of a cash surrender value of $402.1 million and a claims stabilization reserve of $28.7 million at December 31, 2014 and a cash surrender value of $395.8 million, a claims stabilization reserve of $27.6 million and deferred acquisition costs of $1,000 at December 31, 2013.  Repayment of the claims stabilization reserve (funds transferred from the cash surrender value to provide for future death benefit payments) and the deferred acquisition costs (costs incurred by the insurance carrier for the policy issuance) are guaranteed by the insurance carrier provided that certain conditions are met at the date of a contract surrender.  We satisfied these conditions at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
Real Estate Owned	Real Estate Owned
	Real estate owned, or REO, represents real estate acquired through foreclosure or by deed in lieu of foreclosure and is initially recorded at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated selling costs.  Write-downs required at the time of acquisition are charged to the allowance for loan losses.  Thereafter, we maintain a valuation allowance, representing decreases in the properties’ estimated fair value, through charges to earnings.  Such charges are included in other non-interest expense along with any additional property maintenance and protection expenses incurred in owning the property.  REO is reported net of a valuation allowance of $839,000 at December 31, 2014 and $834,000 at December 31, 2013.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements (Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase)	Reverse Repurchase Agreements (Securities Sold Under Agreements to Repurchase)
	We enter into sales of securities under agreements to repurchase with selected dealers and banks (reverse repurchase agreements).  Such agreements are accounted for as secured financing transactions since we maintain effective control over the transferred securities and the transfer meets the other criteria for such accounting.  Obligations to repurchase securities sold are reflected as a liability in our consolidated statements of financial condition.  The securities underlying the agreements are delivered to a custodial account for the benefit of the dealer or bank with whom each transaction is executed.  The dealers or banks, who may sell, loan or otherwise dispose of such securities to other parties in the normal course of their operations, agree to resell us the same securities at the maturities of the agreements.  We retain the right of substitution of collateral throughout the terms of the agreements.  The securities underlying the agreements are classified as encumbered securities in our consolidated statements of financial condition.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments
	As part of our interest rate risk management, we may utilize, from time-to-time, derivative financial instruments which are recorded as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial condition at fair value.  Changes in the fair values of derivatives are reported in our results of operations or other comprehensive income/loss depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting.  We may enter into derivative financial instruments with no hedging designation.  Changes in the fair values of these derivatives are recognized currently in our results of operations, generally in other non-interest expense.  We do not use derivatives for trading purposes.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	We use the asset and liability method to provide for income taxes on all transactions recorded in the consolidated financial statements.  Income tax expense consists of income taxes that are currently payable and deferred income taxes.  Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying enacted statutory tax rates, applicable to future years, to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax basis of existing assets and liabilities and net operating loss carryforwards.  We assess our deferred tax assets and establish a valuation allowance if realization of a deferred tax asset is not considered to be more likely than not.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income tax expense in the period that includes the enactment date.  Certain tax benefits attributable to stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units, including the tax benefit related to dividends paid on unvested restricted stock awards, are credited to additional paid-in-capital.  We maintain a reserve related to certain tax positions and strategies that management believes contain an element of uncertainty and evaluate each of our tax positions and strategies to determine whether the reserve continues to be appropriate.  Accruals of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recognized in income tax expense.
Earnings Per Common Share	Earnings Per Common Share
	Basic earnings per common share, or EPS, is computed pursuant to the two-class method by dividing net income available to common shareholders less dividends paid on participating securities (unvested shares of restricted common stock) and any undistributed earnings attributable to participating securities by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the year.  The weighted average common shares outstanding includes the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding less the weighted average number of unvested shares of restricted common stock and, through December 31, 2013, unallocated common shares held by the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, or ESOP.  For EPS calculations, unallocated ESOP shares that had been committed to be released were considered outstanding.  ESOP shares that had not been committed to be released were excluded from outstanding shares on a weighted average basis for EPS calculations.  As of December 31, 2013, there were no remaining unallocated ESOP shares.
	Diluted EPS is computed using the same method as basic EPS, but includes the effect of dilutive potential common shares during the period, such as unexercised stock options and unvested restricted stock units, calculated using the treasury stock method.  However, unvested restricted stock units are excluded from the denominator for both the basic and diluted EPS computations until the performance conditions are satisfied.
Employee Benefits	Employee Benefits
	Astoria Bank has a qualified, non-contributory defined benefit pension plan, or the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, covering employees meeting specified eligibility criteria.  Astoria Bank’s policy is to fund pension costs in accordance with the minimum funding requirement.  In addition, Astoria Bank has non-qualified and unfunded supplemental retirement plans covering certain officers and directors including the Astoria Bank Excess Benefit Plan and the Astoria Bank Supplemental Benefit Plan, or the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans, and the Astoria Bank Directors’ Retirement Plan, or the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan.  Effective April 30, 2012, the Astoria Bank Pension Plan, the Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans and the Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan were amended to, among other things, change the manner in which benefits were computed for service through April 30, 2012 and to suspend accrual of additional benefits for all of the aforementioned plans effective April 30, 2012.  These amendments resulted in a significant reduction in net periodic cost for our defined benefit pension plans for periods subsequent to April 30, 2012.
	We also sponsor a health care plan that provides for postretirement medical and dental coverage to select individuals.  The costs of postretirement benefits are accrued during an employee’s active working career.
	We recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan, which is measured as the difference between plan assets at fair value and the benefit obligation at the measurement date, in other assets or other liabilities in our consolidated statements of financial condition.  Changes in the funded status are recognized through other comprehensive income/loss in the period in which the changes occur.
	Prior to January 1, 2014, we recorded compensation expense related to the ESOP at an amount equal to the shares allocated by the ESOP multiplied by the average fair value of our common stock during the year of allocation, plus the cash contributions made to participant accounts.  The difference between the fair value of shares for the period and the cost of the shares allocated by the ESOP was recorded as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital. As of December 31, 2013 all shares in the ESOP were allocated to participants and the plan was frozen. On April 1, 2014, the ESOP was merged into the Astoria Bank 401(k) Plan, or the 401(k) Plan, and all participant balances under the ESOP were transferred to participant accounts under the 401(k) Plan.
Stock Incentive Plans	Stock Incentive Plans
	We recognize the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments based on the grant date fair value of awards.  Stock-based compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period which is the earlier of the awards’ stated vesting date or the employees’ or non-employee directors’ retirement eligibility date for awards that have accelerated vesting provisions upon retirement.  For awards which have performance-based conditions, recognition of stock-based compensation expense begins when the achievement of the performance conditions is probable.  The fair value of restricted common stock and restricted stock unit awards are based on the closing market value of our common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on the grant date, reduced by the present value of the expected dividend stream during the vesting period for restricted stock unit awards using a risk-free interest rate.
Segment Reporting	Segment Reporting
	As a community-oriented financial institution, substantially all of our operations involve the delivery of loan and deposit products to customers. We make operating decisions and assess performance based on an ongoing review of these community banking operations, which constitute our only operating segment for financial reporting purposes.
Impact of Recent Accounting Standards and Interpretations	Impact of Recent Accounting Standards and Interpretations
	In January 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued Accounting Standards Update, or ASU, 2014-04, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40) Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure,” and in August 2014 the FASB issued ASU 2014-14, “Receivables - Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors (Subtopic 310-40) - Classification of Certain Government-Guaranteed Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure.” ASU 2014-04 applies to all creditors who obtain physical possession of residential real estate property collateralizing a consumer mortgage loan in satisfaction of a receivable. The amendments in ASU 2014-04 clarify when an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs and requires disclosure of both (1) the amount of foreclosed residential real estate property held by a creditor and (2) the recorded investment in consumer mortgage loans collateralized by residential real estate property that are in the process of foreclosure according to local requirements of the applicable jurisdiction. ASU 2014-14 applies to creditors that hold government-guaranteed mortgage loans. The amendments in ASU 2014-14 require that a mortgage loan be derecognized and that a separate other receivable be recognized upon foreclosure if (1) the loan has a government guarantee that is not separable from the loan before foreclosure, (2) at the time of foreclosure, the creditor has the intent to convey the real estate property to the guarantor and make a claim on the guarantee, and the creditor has the ability to recover under that claim and (3) at the time of foreclosure, any amount of the claim that is determined on the basis of the fair value of the real estate is fixed. Effective July 1, 2014 we adopted the guidance in ASU 2014-04 and effective October 1, 2014 we adopted the guidance in ASU 2014-14 using the prospective transition method. Our adoption of the guidance in ASU 2014-04 and ASU 2014-14 did not have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
	In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-01, “Investments – Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323) Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects,” which applies to all reporting entities that invest in flow-through limited liability entities that manage or invest in affordable housing projects that qualify for the low-income housing tax credit.  Prior to the effective date of ASU 2014-01, a reporting entity that invested in a qualified affordable housing project may have elected to account for that investment using the effective yield method if all of the conditions were met.  For those investments that were not accounted for using the effective yield method, they were required to be accounted for under either the equity method or the cost method.  Certain of the conditions required to be met to use the effective yield method were restrictive and thus prevented many such investments from qualifying for the use of the effective yield method.  The amendments in this update modify the conditions that a reporting entity must meet to be eligible to use a method other than the equity or cost methods to account for qualified affordable housing project investments. If the modified conditions are met, the amendments permit an entity to use the proportional amortization method to amortize the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the amount of tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognize the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense (benefit).  Additionally, the amendments introduce new recurring disclosures about all investments in qualified affordable housing projects irrespective of the method used to account for the investments.  The amendments in ASU 2014-01 are effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2014.  Our adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2015 did not have an impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-11, “Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) — Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures” which applies to all entities that enter into repurchase-to-maturity transactions or repurchase financings (reverse repurchase agreements or securities sold under agreements to repurchase).  The amendments in this update change the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions and linked repurchase financings (a transfer of a financial asset executed contemporaneously with a repurchase agreement with the same counterparty) to secured borrowing accounting, which is consistent with the accounting for other repurchase agreements.  In addition, the amendments in this update require an entity to disclose information on transfers accounted for as sales in transactions that are economically similar to repurchase agreements and provide disclosures to increase transparency about the types of collateral pledged in repurchase agreements and similar transactions accounted for as secured borrowings.  The amendments in ASU 2014-11 are effective for public business entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2014.  Early application for a public business entity is prohibited.  All of our repurchase agreements (reverse repurchase agreements) are accounted for as secured borrowings.  Therefore, our adoption of this guidance on January 1, 2015 did not have an impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
	In June 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, “Compensation — Stock Compensation (Topic 718) — Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period,” which applies to all entities that grant their employees share-based payments in which the terms of the award provide that a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the requisite service period.  The amendments in this update require that a performance target that affects vesting and that could be achieved after the requisite service period be treated as a performance condition.  As such, the performance target should not be reflected in estimating the grant date fair value of the award.  The amendments in ASU 2014-12 are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2015 and may be applied either prospectively to all awards granted or modified after the effective date, or retrospectively to all awards with performance targets that are outstanding as of the beginning of the earliest annual period presented in the financial statements and to all new or modified awards thereafter.  Early adoption is permitted. The terms of our share-based payment awards currently do not provide that a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the requisite service period. Therefore, this guidance is not expected to have an impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

Securities_Tables

Securities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Schedule of Amortized Cost and Estimated Fair Value of Securities Available-For-Sale and Held-To-Maturity	The following tables set forth the amortized cost and estimated fair value of securities available-for-sale and held-to-maturity at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
	(In Thousands)	Amortized		Gross				Gross						Estimated
		Cost		Unrealized				Unrealized						Fair
				Gains				Losses						Value
	Available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs (1)	$	266,946		$	3,608			$	(1,556	)			$	268,998
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	5,071			34				(1		)			5,104
	GSE pass-through certificates	12,919			640				(2		)			13,557
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	284,936			4,282				(1,559		)			287,659
	Obligations of GSEs	98,680			—				(1,982		)			96,698
	Fannie Mae stock	15			—				(13		)			2
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	383,631		$	4,282			$	(3,554	)			$	384,359
	Held-to-maturity:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	1,575,402		$	14,536			$	(14,041	)			$	1,575,897
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	2,482			31				(7		)			2,506
	GSE pass-through certificates	281,685			2,442				(3,877		)			280,250
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	1,859,569			17,009				(17,925		)			1,858,653
	Multi-family mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs	154,381			554				(590		)			154,345
	Obligations of GSEs	119,336			42				(1,523		)			117,855
	Other	518			—				—					518
	Total securities held-to-maturity	$	2,133,804		$	17,605			$	(20,038	)			$	2,131,371
	(1) Real estate mortgage investment conduits and collateralized mortgage obligations
		At December 31, 2013
	(In Thousands)	Amortized		Gross				Gross						Estimated
		Cost		Unrealized				Unrealized						Fair
				Gains				Losses						Value
	Available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	292,131		$	1,077			$	(7,134	)			$	286,074
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	7,516			57				(1		)			7,572
	GSE pass-through certificates	16,120			770				(2		)			16,888
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	315,767			1,904				(7,137		)			310,534
	Obligations of GSEs	98,675			—				(7,522		)			91,153
	Fannie Mae stock	15			—				(12		)			3
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	414,457		$	1,904			$	(14,671	)			$	401,690
	Held-to-maturity:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	1,474,506		$	12,877			$	(33,925	)			$	1,453,458
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	3,833			61				(10		)			3,884
	GSE pass-through certificates	282,473			85				(10,089		)			272,469
	Total residential mortgage-backed securities	1,760,812			13,023				(44,024		)			1,729,811
	Obligations of GSEs	88,128			—				(7,403		)			80,725
	Other	586			—				—					586
	Total securities held-to-maturity	$	1,849,526		$	13,023			$	(51,427	)			$	1,811,122
Schedule of Estimated Fair Values of Securities with Gross Unrealized Losses in Continuous Unrealized Loss Position for Less Than Twelve Months and For Twelve Months or Longer	The following tables set forth the estimated fair values of securities with gross unrealized losses at the dates indicated, segregated between securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than twelve months and those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for twelve months or longer at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Less Than Twelve Months						Twelve Months or Longer								Total
	(In Thousands)	Estimated		Gross				Estimated				Gross				Estimated		Gross
		Fair Value		Unrealized				Fair Value				Unrealized				Fair Value		Unrealized
				Losses								Losses						Losses
	Available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	20,587		$	(159	)	$	75,444				$	(1,397	)	$	96,031		$	(1,556	)
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	—			—			96					(1		)	96			(1		)
	GSE pass-through certificates	53			(1		)	64					(1		)	117			(2		)
	Obligations of GSEs	24,586			(395		)	72,112					(1,587		)	96,698			(1,982		)
	Fannie Mae stock	—			—			2					(13		)	2			(13		)
	Total temporarily impaired securities	$	45,226		$	(555	)	$	147,718				$	(2,999	)	$	192,944		$	(3,554	)
	available-for-sale
	Held-to-maturity:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	121,861		$	(302	)	$	500,348				$	(13,739	)	$	622,209		$	(14,041	)
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	—			—			294					(7		)	294			(7		)
	GSE pass-through certificates	—			—			164,453					(3,877		)	164,453			(3,877		)
	Multi-family mortgage backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs	100,355			(590		)	—					—			100,355			(590		)
	Obligations of GSEs	—			—			79,413					(1,523		)	79,413			(1,523		)
	Total temporarily impaired securities	$	222,216		$	(892	)	$	744,508				$	(19,146	)	$	966,724		$	(20,038	)
	held-to-maturity
		At December 31, 2013
		Less Than Twelve Months						Twelve Months or Longer								Total
	(In Thousands)	Estimated		Gross				Estimated				Gross				Estimated		Gross
		Fair Value		Unrealized				Fair Value				Unrealized				Fair Value		Unrealized
				Losses								Losses						Losses
	Available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	243,149		$	(7,134	)	$	—				$	—		$	243,149		$	(7,134	)
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	—			—			132					(1		)	132			(1		)
	GSE pass-through certificates	172			(1		)	70					(1		)	242			(2		)
	Obligations of GSEs	91,153			(7,522		)	—					—			91,153			(7,522		)
	Fannie Mae stock	—			—			3					(12		)	3			(12		)
	Total temporarily impaired securities	$	334,474		$	(14,657	)	$	205				$	(14	)	$	334,679		$	(14,671	)
	available-for-sale
	Held-to-maturity:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	719,715		$	(25,611	)	$	151,581				$	(8,314	)	$	871,296		$	(33,925	)
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	392			(10		)	—					—			392			(10		)
	GSE pass-through certificates	230,795			(10,088		)	28					(1		)	230,823			(10,089		)
	Obligations of GSEs	80,725			(7,403		)	—					—			80,725			(7,403		)
	Total temporarily impaired securities	$	1,031,627		$	(43,112	)	$	151,609				$	(8,315	)	$	1,183,236		$	(51,427	)
	held-to-maturity

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance1

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of composition of loans receivable portfolio and an aging analysis by accruing and non-accrual loans and by segment and class	The following tables set forth the composition of our loans receivable portfolio, and an aging analysis by accruing and non-accrual loans, by segment and class at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Past Due
		30-59				60-89				90 Days				Total
	(In Thousands)	Days				Days				or More				Past Due				Current				Total
	Accruing loans:
	Mortgage loans (gross):
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only	$	13,943			$	7,332			$	—			$	21,275			$	804,880			$	826,155
	Full documentation amortizing	25,878				7,611				144				33,633				4,948,391				4,982,024
	Reduced documentation interest-only	18,490				2,584				—				21,074				547,350				568,424
	Reduced documentation amortizing	11,024				1,648				—				12,672				384,250				396,922
	Total residential	69,335				19,175				144				88,654				6,684,871				6,773,525
	Multi-family	3,646				2,222				1,790				7,658				3,893,539				3,901,197
	Commercial real estate	1,686				493				2,159				4,338				863,615				867,953
	Total mortgage loans	74,667				21,890				4,093				100,650				11,442,025				11,542,675
	Consumer and other loans (gross):
	Home equity and other consumer	2,430				962				—				3,392				175,121				178,513
	Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				64,815				64,815
	Total consumer and other loans	2,430				962				—				3,392				239,936				243,328
	Total accruing loans	$	77,097			$	22,852			$	4,093			$	104,042			$	11,681,961			$	11,786,003
	Non-accrual loans:
	Mortgage loans (gross):
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only	$	2,371			$	358			$	11,502			$	14,231			$	13,796			$	28,027
	Full documentation amortizing	204				238				14,211				14,653				7,016				21,669
	Reduced documentation interest-only	820				453				16,289				17,562				25,022				42,584
	Reduced documentation amortizing	596				1,066				2,843				4,505				3,226				7,731
	Total residential	3,991				2,115				44,845				50,951				49,060				100,011
	Multi-family	648				346				7,127				8,121				3,735				11,856
	Commercial real estate	790				—				729				1,519				4,293				5,812
	Total mortgage loans	5,429				2,461				52,701				60,591				57,088				117,679
	Consumer and other loans (gross):
	Home equity and other consumer	—				—				6,040				6,040				—				6,040
	Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				—				—
	Total consumer and other loans	—				—				6,040				6,040				—				6,040
	Total non-accrual loans	$	5,429			$	2,461			$	58,741			$	66,631			$	57,088			$	123,719
	Total loans:
	Mortgage loans (gross):
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only	$	16,314			$	7,690			$	11,502			$	35,506			$	818,676			$	854,182
	Full documentation amortizing	26,082				7,849				14,355				48,286				4,955,407				5,003,693
	Reduced documentation interest-only	19,310				3,037				16,289				38,636				572,372				611,008
	Reduced documentation amortizing	11,620				2,714				2,843				17,177				387,476				404,653
	Total residential	73,326				21,290				44,989				139,605				6,733,931				6,873,536
	Multi-family	4,294				2,568				8,917				15,779				3,897,274				3,913,053
	Commercial real estate	2,476				493				2,888				5,857				867,908				873,765
	Total mortgage loans	80,096				24,351				56,794				161,241				11,499,113				11,660,354
	Consumer and other loans (gross):
	Home equity and other consumer	2,430				962				6,040				9,432				175,121				184,553
	Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				64,815				64,815
	Total consumer and other loans	2,430				962				6,040				9,432				239,936				249,368
	Total loans	$	82,526			$	25,313			$	62,834			$	170,673			$	11,739,049			$	11,909,722
	Net unamortized premiums and
	deferred loan origination costs																					47,726
	Loans receivable																					11,957,448
	Allowance for loan losses																					(111,600		)
	Loans receivable, net																					$	11,845,848
		At December 31, 2013
		Past Due
		30-59				60-89				90 Days				Total
	(In Thousands)	Days				Days				or More				Past Due				Current				Total
	Accruing loans:
	Mortgage loans (gross):
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only	$	27,291			$	5,220			$	—			$	32,511			$	1,249,462			$	1,281,973
Full documentation amortizing	31,189				7,415				151				38,755				5,325,944				5,364,699
Reduced documentation interest-only	22,635				5,208				—				27,843				693,660				721,503
Reduced documentation amortizing	8,993				2,311				—				11,304				352,322				363,626
Total residential	90,108				20,154				151				110,413				7,621,388				7,731,801
Multi-family	12,740				970				—				13,710				3,270,206				3,283,916
Commercial real estate	1,729				1,690				233				3,652				801,690				805,342
Total mortgage loans	104,577				22,814				384				127,775				11,693,284				11,821,059
Consumer and other loans (gross):
Home equity and other consumer	3,177				1,340				—				4,517				198,426				202,943
Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				30,758				30,758
Total consumer and other loans	3,177				1,340				—				4,517				229,184				233,701
Total accruing loans	$	107,754			$	24,154			$	384			$	132,292			$	11,922,468			$	12,054,760
Non-accrual loans:
Mortgage loans (gross):
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only	$	2,185			$	582			$	78,271			$	81,038			$	19,190			$	100,228
Full documentation amortizing	1,327				653				41,934				43,914				10,844				54,758
Reduced documentation interest-only	2,065				579				87,910				90,554				27,604				118,158
Reduced documentation amortizing	617				425				26,112				27,154				5,177				32,331
Total residential	6,194				2,239				234,227				242,660				62,815				305,475
Multi-family	1,104				357				9,054				10,515				2,024				12,539
Commercial real estate	930				—				921				1,851				5,773				7,624
Total mortgage loans	8,228				2,596				244,202				255,026				70,612				325,638
Consumer and other loans (gross):
Home equity and other consumer	—				—				5,948				5,948				32				5,980
Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				—				—
Total consumer and other loans	—				—				5,948				5,948				32				5,980
Total non-accrual loans	$	8,228			$	2,596			$	250,150			$	260,974			$	70,644			$	331,618
Total loans:
Mortgage loans (gross):
Residential:
Full documentation interest-only	$	29,476			$	5,802			$	78,271			$	113,549			$	1,268,652			$	1,382,201
Full documentation amortizing	32,516				8,068				42,085				82,669				5,336,788				5,419,457
Reduced documentation interest-only	24,700				5,787				87,910				118,397				721,264				839,661
Reduced documentation amortizing	9,610				2,736				26,112				38,458				357,499				395,957
Total residential	96,302				22,393				234,378				353,073				7,684,203				8,037,276
Multi-family	13,844				1,327				9,054				24,225				3,272,230				3,296,455
Commercial real estate	2,659				1,690				1,154				5,503				807,463				812,966
Total mortgage loans	112,805				25,410				244,586				382,801				11,763,896				12,146,697
Consumer and other loans (gross):
Home equity and other consumer	3,177				1,340				5,948				10,465				198,458				208,923
Commercial and industrial	—				—				—				—				30,758				30,758
Total consumer and other loans	3,177				1,340				5,948				10,465				229,216				239,681
Total loans	$	115,982			$	26,750			$	250,534			$	393,266			$	11,993,112			$	12,386,378
Net unamortized premiums and
deferred loan origination costs																					55,688
Loans receivable																					12,442,066
Allowance for loan losses																					(139,000		)
Loans receivable, net																					$	12,303,066
Schedule of changes in allowance for loan losses by loan receivable segment	The following table sets forth the changes in our allowance for loan losses by loan receivable segment for the years indicated.
			Mortgage Loans															Consumer and Other Loans
	(In Thousands)	Residential						Multi-				Commercial												Total
								Family				Real Estate
	Balance at December 31, 2011		$	105,991				$	35,422				$	11,972					$	3,800				$	157,185
	Provision charged to operations		24,663					6,161					5,038						4,538					40,400
	Charge-offs		(49,794		)			(6,275		)			(2,607		)				(2,541		)			(61,217		)
	Recoveries		8,407					206					1						519					9,133
	Balance at December 31, 2012		89,267					35,514					14,404						6,316					145,501
	Provision charged to operations		9,368					4,684					1,945						3,604					19,601
	Charge-offs		(26,644		)			(4,732		)			(3,748		)				(1,916		)			(37,040		)
	Recoveries		8,346					1,237					535						820					10,938
	Balance at December 31, 2013		80,337					36,703					13,136						8,824					139,000
	Provision (credited) charged to operations		(23,464		)			5,337					6,949						1,709					(9,469		)
	Charge-offs		(19,868		)			(4,365		)			(3,283		)				(2,073		)			(29,589		)
	Recoveries		9,278					1,575					440						365					11,658
	Balance at December 31, 2014		$	46,283				$	39,250				$	17,242					$	8,825				$	111,600
Schedule of balances of residential interest-only mortgage loans by scheduled amortization period	The following table sets forth the balances of our residential interest-only mortgage loans at December 31, 2014 by the year in which such loans are scheduled to enter their amortization period.
	(In Thousands)	Recorded
		Investment
	Amortization scheduled to begin in:
	2015	$	573,633
	2016	415,608
	2017	390,439
	2018 and thereafter	85,510
	Total	$	1,465,190
Schedule of balances of loans receivable and the related allowance for loan loss allocation by segment and by the impairment methodology followed	The following tables set forth the balances of our loans receivable and the related allowance for loan loss allocation by segment and by the impairment methodology followed in determining the allowance for loan losses at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Mortgage Loans																Consumer and Other Loans
	(In Thousands)	Residential				Multi-Family						Commercial												Total
												Real Estate
	Loans:
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	181,402				$	42,611					$	19,270					$	5,153				$	248,436
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	6,692,134					3,870,442						854,495						244,215					11,661,286
	Total loans	$	6,873,536				$	3,913,053					$	873,765					$	249,368				$	11,909,722
	Allowance for loan losses:
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	10,304				$	3,172					$	2,446					$	3,810				$	19,732
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	35,979					36,078						14,796						5,015					91,868
	Total allowance for loan losses	$	46,283				$	39,250					$	17,242					$	8,825				$	111,600
		At December 31, 2013
		Mortgage Loans																Consumer and Other Loans
	(In Thousands)	Residential				Multi-Family						Commercial												Total
												Real Estate
	Loans:
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	311,930				$	52,538					$	20,054					$	—				$	384,522
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	7,725,346					3,243,917						792,912						239,681					12,001,856
	Total loans	$	8,037,276				$	3,296,455					$	812,966					$	239,681				$	12,386,378
	Allowance for loan losses:
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	18,352				$	2,877					$	302					$	—				$	21,531
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	61,985					33,826						12,834						8,824					117,469
	Total allowance for loan losses	$	80,337				$	36,703					$	13,136					$	8,824				$	139,000
Summary of information related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class	The following table summarizes information related to our impaired loans by segment and class at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
		2014																				2013
	(In Thousands)	Unpaid				Recorded						Related				Net						Unpaid				Recorded						Related			Net
		Principal				Investment						Allowance				Investment						Principal				Investment						Allowance			Investment
		Balance																				Balance
	With an allowance recorded:
	Mortgage loans:
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only	$	55,352				$	46,331				$	(3,391	)			$	42,940				$	142,659				$	109,877				$	(6,019	)		$	103,858
	Full documentation amortizing	43,044					39,994					(1,425		)			38,569					41,136					36,091					(2,458		)		33,633
	Reduced documentation interest-only	90,171					76,960					(4,661		)			72,299					183,280					140,357					(7,673		)		132,684
	Reduced documentation amortizing	19,463					18,117					(827		)			17,290					30,660					25,605					(2,202		)		23,403
	Multi-family	34,972					28,109					(3,172		)			24,937					19,748					19,748					(2,877		)		16,871
	Commercial real estate	24,991					19,270					(2,446		)			16,824					5,790					5,790					(302		)		5,488
	Consumer and other loans:
	Home equity lines of credit	5,436					5,153					(3,810		)			1,343					—					—					—				—
	Without an allowance recorded:
	Mortgage loans:
	Multi-family	16,308					14,502					—					14,502					39,871					32,790					—				32,790
	Commercial real estate	—					—					—					—					19,988					14,264					—				14,264
	Total impaired loans	$	289,737				$	248,436				$	(19,732	)			$	228,704				$	483,132				$	384,522				$	(21,531	)		$	362,991
Schedule of information related to average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans	The following table sets forth the average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to our impaired loans by segment and class for the years indicated.
			For the Year Ended December 31,
			2014																		2013																	2012
	(In Thousands)	Average						Interest						Cash Basis						Average						Interest						Cash Basis					Average						Interest						Cash Basis
		Recorded						Income						Interest						Recorded						Income						Interest					Recorded						Income						Interest
		Investment						Recognized						Income						Investment						Recognized						Income					Investment						Recognized						Income
	With an allowance recorded:
	Mortgage loans:
	Residential:
	Full documentation		$	84,264					$	1,860					$	1,920					$	106,720					$	2,938					$	3,068				$	10,436					$	348					$	350
	interest-only
	Full documentation amortizing		38,340						1,491						1,498						30,790						948						974					4,482						193						200
	Reduced documentation		112,172						3,646						3,671						145,490						4,179						4,371					11,352						542						543
	interest-only
	Reduced documentation amortizing		22,137						655						653						25,460						696						729					2,445						114						119
	Multi-family		30,291						1,320						1,339						19,130						737						789					48,196						663						715
	Commercial real estate		17,341						1,065						1,154						8,112						367						377					12,724						495						540
	Consumer and other loans:
	Home equity lines of credit		5,202						45						54						—						—						—					—						—						—
	Without an allowance recorded:
	Mortgage loans:
	Residential:
	Full documentation		—						—						—						11,547						—						—					82,631						1,633						1,739
	interest-only
	Full documentation amortizing		365						—						—						3,517						—						—					17,554						299						332
	Reduced documentation		—						—						—						1,669						—						—					115,593						2,555						2,655
	interest-only
	Reduced documentation amortizing		—						—						—						—						—						—					17,319						367						384
	Multi-family		17,225						632						633						33,193						1,606						1,671					14,617						2,053						2,088
	Commercial real estate		2,853						—						—						10,947						745						698					5,411						519						547
	Total impaired loans		$	330,190					$	10,714					$	10,922					$	396,575					$	12,216					$	12,677				$	342,760					$	9,781					$	10,212
State Concentration of Greater Than 5% of residential mortgage loans or total non-performing residential mortgage loans	The following table details the percentage of our total residential mortgage loans at December 31, 2014 by state where we have a concentration of greater than 5% of our total residential mortgage loans or total non-performing residential mortgage loans.
	State	Percent of Total					Percent of Total
		Residential					Non-Performing
		Loans					Residential
							Loans
	New York		29.6	%				11.4	%
	Connecticut		9.9					4.5
	Illinois		8.8					14.3
	Massachusetts		8.6					4.4
	Virginia		7.5					10.3
	New Jersey		6.9					14
	Maryland		6.4					14.9
	California		5.7					11.9
Restructured Loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Schedule of information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in TDR	The following table sets forth information about our mortgage loans receivable by segment and class at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 which were modified in a TDR during the years indicated.
			Modifications During the Year Ended December 31,
			2014																	2013																2012
	(Dollars In Thousands)	Number					Pre-						Recorded						Number					Pre-						Recorded					Number					Pre-						Recorded
		of Loans					Modification						Investment at						of Loans					Modification						Investment at					of Loans					Modification						Investment at
							Recorded						31-Dec-14											Recorded						December 31, 2013										Recorded						December 31, 2012
							Investment																	Investment																Investment
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only		21					$	9,244					$	8,726					26					$	6,760					$	6,730				20					$	4,390					$	4,355
	Full documentation amortizing		4					889						812						11					3,753						3,734					11					3,319						3,291
	Reduced documentation interest-only		19					6,819						6,774						37					12,199						12,227					29					11,141						11,125
	Reduced documentation amortizing		5					809						745						11					3,404						3,325					14					3,984						3,860
	Multi-family		4					2,501						1,981						8					6,751						5,888					16					36,262						32,005
	Commercial real estate		3					2,482						2,433						7					10,232						9,104					3					3,898						2,305
	Total		56					$	22,744					$	21,471					100					$	43,099					$	41,008				93					$	62,994					$	56,941
Defaulted Loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Schedule of information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in TDR	The following table sets forth information about our mortgage loans receivable by segment and class at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 which were modified in a TDR during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 and had a payment default subsequent to the modification during the years indicated.
			During the Year Ended December 31,
			2014											2013											2012
	(Dollars In Thousands)	Number					Recorded						Number					Recorded						Number					Recorded
		of Loans					Investment at						of Loans					Investment at						of Loans					Investment at
							December 31, 2014											December 31, 2013											December 31, 2012
	Residential:
	Full documentation interest-only		1					$	621					11					$	2,191					1					$	165
	Full documentation amortizing		2					319						4					1,334						2					643
	Reduced documentation interest-only		3					1,123						17					4,190						5					1,829
	Reduced documentation amortizing		—					—						3					788						4					1,628
	Multi-family		3					1,400						2					1,018						2					3,589
	Total		9					$	3,463					37					$	9,521					14					$	7,854
Performing, non-performing credit quality indicator
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Schedule of loan receivable segments by class and credit quality indicator	The following tables set forth the balances of our residential mortgage and consumer and other loan receivable segments by class and credit quality indicator at the dates indicated.
			At December 31, 2014
			Residential Mortgage Loans																					Consumer and Other Loans
			Full Documentation										Reduced Documentation											Home Equity and Other Consumer						Commercial and Industrial
	(In Thousands)	Interest-only						Amortizing				Interest-only						Amortizing
	Performing		$	826,155				$	4,981,880				$	568,424					$	396,922					$	178,513					$	64,815
	Non-performing:
	Current or past due less than 90 days		16,525					7,458					26,295						4,888						—						—
	Past due 90 days or more		11,502					14,355					16,289						2,843						6,040						—
	Total		$	854,182				$	5,003,693				$	611,008					$	404,653					$	184,553					$	64,815
			At December 31, 2013
			Residential Mortgage Loans																					Consumer and Other Loans
			Full Documentation										Reduced Documentation											Home Equity and Other Consumer						Commercial and Industrial
	(In Thousands)	Interest-only						Amortizing				Interest-only						Amortizing
	Performing		$	1,281,973				$	5,364,548				$	721,503					$	363,626					$	202,943					$	30,758
	Non-performing:
	Current or past due less than 90 days		21,957					12,824					30,248						6,219						32						—
	Past due 90 days or more		78,271					42,085					87,910						26,112						5,948						—
	Total		$	1,382,201				$	5,419,457				$	839,661					$	395,957					$	208,923					$	30,758
Criticized, Not Criticized
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Schedule of loan receivable segments by class and credit quality indicator	The following table sets forth the balances of our multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator at the dates indicated.
			At December 31,
			2014												2013
	(In Thousands)	Multi-Family						Commercial						Multi-Family						Commercial
								Real Estate												Real Estate
	Not criticized		$	3,850,068					$	817,404					$	3,209,786					$	759,114
	Criticized:
	Special mention		30,975						22,584						14,063						9,760
	Substandard		31,264						32,664						72,606						44,092
	Doubtful		746						1,113						—						—
	Total		$	3,913,053					$	873,765					$	3,296,455					$	812,966

Mortgage_Servicing_Rights_Tabl

Mortgage Servicing Rights (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Servicing Asset [Abstract]
Summary of MSR Activity	The following table summarizes MSR activity for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Carrying amount before valuation allowance at beginning of year	$	15,595		$	15,143		$	15,401
	Additions – servicing obligations that result from transfers of financial assets	1,123			3,681			3,651
	Amortization	(2,582		)	(3,229		)	(3,909		)
	Carrying amount before valuation allowance at end of year	14,136			15,595			15,143
	Valuation allowance at beginning of year	(2,795		)	(8,196		)	(7,265		)
	Recovery of (provision for) valuation allowance	60			5,401			(931		)
	Valuation allowance at end of year	(2,735		)	(2,795		)	(8,196		)
	Net carrying amount at end of year	$	11,401		$	12,800		$	6,947
Mortgage Banking Income, Net	The following table summarizes mortgage banking income, net, for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Loan servicing fees	$	4,085		$	4,189		$	4,070
	Net gain on sales of loans	1,763			6,880			7,590
	Amortization of MSR	(2,582		)	(3,229		)	(3,909		)
	Recovery of (provision for) valuation allowance on MSR	60			5,401			(931		)
	Total mortgage banking income, net	$	3,326		$	13,241		$	6,820

Deposits_Tables

Deposits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Deposits [Abstract]
Deposits	The following table summarizes deposits at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
						2014									2013
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Weighted Average Rate				Balance				Percent of Total		Weighted Average Rate			Balance		Percent of Total
	Core deposits:
	Savings		0.05	%		$	2,237,142			23.54	%		0.05	%	$	2,493,899	25.31	%
	Money market		0.24			2,373,484				24.96			0.25		1,972,136		20.01
	NOW		0.06			1,331,345				14.01			0.06		1,231,890		12.5
	Non-interest bearing NOW		—			867,432				9.13			—		865,588		8.78
	and demand deposit
	Total core deposits		0.11			6,809,403				71.64			0.11		6,563,513		66.6
	Certificates of deposit		1.47			2,695,506				28.36			1.5		3,291,797		33.4
	Total deposits		0.5	%		$	9,504,909			100	%		0.57	%	$	9,855,310	100	%
Scheduled Maturities of Certificates of Deposit
	The following table details the scheduled maturities of our certificates of deposit at December 31, 2014.
	Year	Weighted					Balance					Percent
		Average										of
		Rate										Total
						(In Thousands)
	2015		1.44	%			$	1,577,360				58.52	%
	2016		1.78				551,619					20.46
	2017		1.09				277,620					10.3
	2018		1.1				101,213					3.76
	2019		1.5				186,384					6.91
	2020 and thereafter		1.7				1,310					0.05
	Total		1.47	%			$	2,695,506				100	%
Interest Expense on Deposits	The following table summarizes interest expense on deposits for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013				2012
	Savings	$	1,182		$	1,329			$	4,437
	Money market	5,527			5,646				8,944
	Interest-bearing NOW	706			691				978
	Certificates of deposit	43,940			54,951				83,662
	Total interest expense on deposits	$	51,355		$	62,617			$	98,021

Borrowings_Tables

Borrowings (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Borrowings	The following table summarizes our borrowings at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
		2014							2013
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Amount			Weighted				Amount			Weighted
					Average							Average
					Rate							Rate
	Federal funds purchased	$	455,000			0.31	%		$	335,000			0.28	%
	Reverse repurchase agreements	1,100,000				3.62			1,100,000				3.87
	FHLB-NY advances	2,384,000				1.72			2,454,000				1.79
	Other borrowings, net	248,691				5			248,161				5
	Total borrowings, net	$	4,187,691			2.26	%		$	4,137,161			2.41	%
Reverse Repurchase Agreements	The following table summarizes information relating to reverse repurchase agreements.
		At or For the Year Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in Thousands)	2014				2013			2012
	Average balance during the year	$	1,100,000			$	1,100,000		$	1,422,678
	Maximum balance at any month end during the year	1,100,000				1,100,000			1,700,000
	Balance outstanding at end of year	1,100,000				1,100,000			1,100,000
	Weighted average interest rate during the year	3.82		%		4.06		%	4.28		%
	Weighted average interest rate at end of year	3.62				3.87			4.32
Contractual Maturities of Reverse Repurchase Agreements	The following table details the contractual maturities of our reverse repurchase agreements at December 31, 2014.
	Year		Amount
		(In Thousands)
	2018		$	200,000		(1	)
	2019		600,000			(1	)
	2020		300,000			(2	)
	Total		$	1,100,000
	-1	Callable in 2015.
	-2	Includes $100.0 million of borrowings which are callable in 2015, $100.0 million of borrowings which are callable in 2016 and $100.0 million of borrowings which are callable in 2017.
FHLB-NY Advances	The following table summarizes information relating to FHLB-NY advances.
		At or For the Year Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in Thousands)	2014				2013			2012
	Average balance during the year	$	2,332,718			$	2,512,425		$	2,765,985
	Maximum balance at any month end during the year	2,617,000				2,881,000			3,215,000
	Balance outstanding at end of year	2,384,000				2,454,000			2,897,000
	Weighted average interest rate during the year	1.78		%		2		%	2.24		%
	Weighted average interest rate at end of year	1.72				1.79			2.07
Contractual Maturities of FHLB-NY Advances	The following table details the contractual maturities of FHLB-NY advances at December 31, 2014.
	Year	Amount
		(In Thousands)
	2015		$	984,000		(1	)
	2016		550,000
	2020		850,000			(2	)
	Total		$	2,384,000
	-1	Includes $209.0 million of borrowings due overnight, $475.0 million of borrowings due in less than 30 days and $300.0 million of borrowings due after 90 days.
	-2	Callable in 2017.
Interest Expense on Borrowings
	The following table summarizes interest expense on borrowings for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014				2013			2012
	Federal funds purchased	$	1,139			$	587		$	—
	Reverse repurchase agreements	42,626				45,272			61,855
	FHLB-NY advances	41,911				50,654			62,675
	Other borrowings	13,031				17,398			29,689
	Total interest expense on borrowings	$	98,707			$	113,911		$	154,219

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Minimum Rental Payments Due under Terms of Non-cancelable Operating Leases	The minimum rental payments due under the terms of the non-cancelable operating leases at December 31, 2014, which have not been reduced by minimum sublease rentals of $4.1 million due in the future under non-cancelable subleases, are summarized below.
	Year		Amount
		(In Thousands)
	2015		$	12,323
	2016		12,347
	2017		10,858
	2018		9,513
	2019		8,619
	2020 and thereafter		36,591
	Total		$	90,251
Outstanding Loan Related Commitments	The following table summarizes our outstanding commitments at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013
	Mortgage loans:
	Commitments to extend credit – adjustable rate	$	289,086		$	216,675
	Commitments to extend credit – fixed rate (1)	74,157			50,303
	Commitments to purchase – adjustable rate	10,334			8,521
	Commitments to purchase – fixed rate	27,818			24,326
	Commitments to extend credit on consumer and other loans	12,345			—
	Unused lines of credit:
	Home equity and other consumer loans	101,329			139,598
	Commercial and industrial loans	64,074			38,372
	Commitments to sell loans	20,904			19,114
	_______________________________
	-1	Includes commitments to originate loans held-for-sale totaling $14.8 million at December 31, 2014 and $9.2 million at December 31, 2013.

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Tax Expense	The following table summarizes income tax expense for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Current:
	Federal	$	17,435		$	24,524		$	(29,202	)
	State and local	4,033			3,722			3,201
	Total current	21,468			28,246			(26,001		)
	Deferred:
	Federal	27,452			9,496			52,969
	State and local	(22,641		)	7			912
	Total deferred	4,811			9,503			53,881
	Total income tax expense	$	26,279		$	37,749		$	27,880
Income Tax Expense Difference from Amounts Computed by Applying Federal Income Tax Rate to Income Before Income Tax Expense
	The following is a reconciliation of income tax expense computed by applying the federal income tax rate to income before income tax expense to income tax expense included in the consolidated statements of income for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Expected income tax expense at statutory federal rate	$	42,768		$	36,520		$	28,340
	State and local taxes, net of federal tax effect (1)	(12,096		)	2,424			2,673
	Tax exempt income (principally on BOLI)	(2,970		)	(2,945		)	(3,356		)
	Non-deductible ESOP compensation	—			2,613			2,187
	Low income housing tax credit	(1,676		)	(1,676		)	(1,727		)
	Other, net	253			813			(237		)
	Total income tax expense	$	26,279		$	37,749		$	27,880
	-1	Includes net tax benefits of $15.7 million, net of federal tax effects, for the year ended December 31, 2014 related to the impact of the changes in New York State, or NYS, income tax legislation enacted on March 31, 2014.
Tax Effects of Temporary Differences that Give Rise to Significant Portions of Deferred Tax Assets and Deferred Tax Liabilities	The following table summarizes the tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Allowances for losses	$	48,243		$	54,511
	Compensation and benefits (principally pension and other	45,849			21,955
	postretirement benefit plans)
	Mortgage loans (principally deferred loan origination costs)	981			7,524
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale	—			4,010
	State and local net operating loss carryforwards	16,122			—
	Other deductible temporary differences	4,540			5,558
	Total gross deferred tax assets	115,735			93,558
	Less valuation allowance	(7,220		)	—
	Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance	108,515			93,558
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Premises and equipment	(3,102		)	(3,882		)
	Net unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale	(1,035		)	—
	MSR	(910		)	(69		)
	Total gross deferred tax liabilities	(5,047		)	(3,951		)
	Net deferred tax assets (included in other assets)	$	103,468		$	89,607
Reconciliation of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of gross unrecognized tax benefits for the years indicated.  The amounts have not been reduced by the federal deferred tax effects of unrecognized state tax benefits.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year	$	4,009		$	3,428		$	3,856
	Additions as a result of a tax position taken during the current period	675			600			630
	Reductions as a result of tax positions taken during a prior period	—			(19		)	—
	Reductions relating to settlement with taxing authorities	(2,529		)	—			(1,058		)
	Unrecognized tax benefits at end of year	$	2,155		$	4,009		$	3,428

Earnings_Per_Common_Share_Tabl

Earnings Per Common Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reconciliation of basic and diluted EPS	The following table is a reconciliation of basic and diluted EPS for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands, Except Share Data)	2014			2013			2012
	Net income	$	95,916		$	66,593		$	53,091
	Preferred stock dividends	(8,775		)	(7,214		)	—
	Net income available to common shareholders	87,141			59,379			53,091
	Income allocated to participating securities	(973		)	(720		)	(463		)
	Net income allocated to common shareholders	$	86,168		$	58,659		$	52,628
	Basic weighted average common shares outstanding	98,384,443			97,121,497			95,455,344
	Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock units (1) (2)	—			—			—
	Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding	98,384,443			97,121,497			95,455,344
	Basic EPS	$	0.88		$	0.6		$	0.55
	Diluted EPS	$	0.88		$	0.6		$	0.55
	-1	Excludes options to purchase 962,783 shares of common stock which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2014; options to purchase 2,096,708 shares of common stock which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2013; and options to purchase 5,495,748 shares of common stock which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2012 because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
	(2)	Excludes 758,792 unvested restricted stock units which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2014 and 387,791 unvested restricted stock units which were outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2013 because the performance conditions have not been satisfied.  There were no unvested restricted stock units outstanding during the year ended December 31, 2012.

Other_Comprehensive_IncomeLoss1

Other Comprehensive Income/Loss (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Components of and Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of related tax effects	The following tables set forth the components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of related tax effects, at the dates indicated and the changes during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	(In Thousands)	At						Other					At
		December 31, 2013						Comprehensive					December 31, 2014
								Income (Loss)
	Net unrealized (loss) gain on securities available-for-sale		$	(4,366	)				$	9,052				$	4,686
	Net actuarial loss on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(30,600		)				(36,876		)			(67,476		)
	Prior service cost on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(3,284		)				123					(3,161		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss		$	(38,250	)				$	(27,701	)			$	(65,951	)
	(In Thousands)	At						Other					At
		December 31, 2012						Comprehensive					December 31, 2013
								(Loss) Income
	Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale		$	7,451					$	(11,817	)			$	(4,366	)
	Net actuarial loss on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(77,115		)				46,515					(30,600		)
	Prior service cost on pension plans and other postretirement benefits		(3,426		)				142					(3,284		)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss		$	(73,090	)				$	34,840				$	(38,250	)
Schedule of components of other comprehensive income/loss	The following table sets forth the components of other comprehensive income/loss for the years indicated.
	(In Thousands)	Before Tax				Tax				After Tax
		Amount				(Expense)				Amount
						Benefit
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2014
	Net unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale:
	Net unrealized holding gain on securities arising during the year	$	14,134			$	(4,991	)		$	9,143
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities included in net income	(141		)		50				(91		)
	Net unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale	13,993				(4,941		)		9,052
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	(60,583		)		23,116				(37,467		)
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	913				(322		)		591
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	(59,670		)		22,794				(36,876		)
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	190				(67		)		123
	Other comprehensive loss	$	(45,487	)		$	17,786			$	(27,701	)
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale:
	Net unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the year	$	(16,202	)		$	5,717			$	(10,485	)
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities included in net income	(2,057		)		725				(1,332		)
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale	(18,259		)		6,442				(11,817		)
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	68,150				(23,970		)		44,180
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	3,610				(1,275		)		2,335
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	71,760				(25,245		)		46,515
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	213				(71		)		142
	Other comprehensive income	$	53,714			$	(18,874	)		$	34,840
	For the Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale:
	Net unrealized holding loss on securities arising during the year	$	(2,040	)		$	720			$	(1,320	)
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities included in net income	(8,477		)		2,987				(5,490		)
	Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale	(10,517		)		3,707				(6,810		)
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	14,141				(4,998		)		9,143
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	5,447				(1,920		)		3,527
	Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	19,588				(6,918		)		12,670
	Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits:
	Prior service cost adjustment arising during the year	(5,463		)		1,925				(3,538		)
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	152				(54		)		98
	Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	(5,311		)		1,871				(3,440		)
	Reclassification adjustment for loss on cash flow hedge included in net income	261				(110		)		151
	Other comprehensive income	$	4,021			$	(1,450	)		$	2,571
Information about amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to the consolidated statement of income	The following table sets forth information about amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to, and the affected line items in, the consolidated statement of income for the years indicated.
	(In Thousands)	For the Year Ended December 31,											Income Statement
		2014						2013					Line Item
	Reclassification adjustment for gain on sales of securities		$	141					$	2,057			Gain on sales of securities
	Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss (1)		(913		)				(3,610		)		Compensation and benefits
	Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost (1)		(190		)				(213		)		Compensation and benefits
	Total reclassifications, before tax		(962		)				(1,766		)
	Income tax effect		339						621				Income tax expense
	Total reclassifications, net of tax		$	(623	)				$	(1,145	)		Net income
	(1)  These other comprehensive income/loss components are included in the computations of net periodic (benefit) cost for our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan.  See Note 13 for additional details.

Benefit_Plans_Tables

Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Benefit Plans
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan	The following table sets forth information regarding our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan at and for the periods indicated.
			Pension Benefits										Other Postretirement
													Benefits
		At or For the Year Ended December 31,										At or For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)		2014				2013						2014				2013
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	230,361			$	260,108					$	18,766			$	35,476
	Service cost		—				—						1,241				1,578
	Interest cost		10,450				9,549						930				1,279
	Actuarial loss (gain)		48,633				(28,749		)				8,371				(18,572		)
	Benefits paid		(19,172		)		(10,547		)				(763		)		(995		)
	Benefit obligation at end of year		270,272				230,361						28,545				18,766
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		189,367				160,683						—				—
	Actual return on plan assets		11,264				33,583						—				—
	Employer contribution		5,615				5,648						763				995
	Benefits paid		(19,172		)		(10,547		)				(763		)		(995		)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year		187,074				189,367						—				—
	Funded status at end of year		$	(83,198	)		$	(40,994	)				$	(28,545	)		$	(18,766	)
Pre-Tax Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Related to Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefits	The following table sets forth the pre-tax components of accumulated other comprehensive loss related to pension plans and other postretirement benefits at the dates indicated.  We expect that $3.0 million in net actuarial loss and $190,000 in prior service cost will be recognized as components of net periodic cost in 2015.
		Pension Benefits								Other Postretirement
										Benefits
		At December 31,								At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014				2013				2014				2013
	Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	108,137			$	57,327			$	771			$	(8,089	)
	Prior service cost	4,950				5,140				—				—
	Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	$	113,087			$	62,467			$	771			$	(8,089	)
Discount Rates used to Determine Benefit Obligations	The following table presents the discount rates used to determine the benefit obligations at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
		2014			2013
	Pension Benefit Plans:
	Astoria Bank Pension Plan	3.77	%		4.66	%
	Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans	3.6			4.39
	Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan	3.47			4.23
	Greater Directors’ Retirement Plan	3.12			3.64
	LIB Directors’ Retirement Plan	0.59			0.5
	Other Postretirement Benefit Plan:
	Astoria Bank Retiree Health Care Plan	3.89			4.8
Components of Net Periodic Cost for Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan	The following table summarizes the components of net periodic (benefit) cost for the years indicated.
		Pension Benefits												Other Postretirement Benefits
		For the Year Ended December 31,												For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014				2013				2012				2014				2013		2012
	Service cost	$	—			$	—			$	2,025			$	1,241			$	1,578	$	1,061
	Interest cost	10,450				9,549				10,992				930				1,279		1,378
	Expected return on plan assets	(14,843		)		(12,754		)		(11,947		)		—				—		—
	Recognized net actuarial loss (gain)	1,401				3,138				4,930				(488		)		472		517
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	190				213				177				—				—		(25		)
	Settlement	—				—				2,302				—				—		—
	Net periodic (benefit) cost	$	(2,802	)		$	146			$	8,479			$	1,683			$	3,329	$	2,931
Assumptions used to Determine Net Periodic Cost
	The following table sets forth the assumptions used to determine the net periodic (benefit) cost for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
		Discount Rate						Expected Return
								on Plan Assets
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Pension Benefit Plans:
	Astoria Bank Pension Plan	4.66	%		3.77	%		8	%		8	%
	Astoria Excess and Supplemental Benefit Plans	4.39			3.49			N/A			N/A
	Astoria Directors’ Retirement Plan	4.23			3.21			N/A			N/A
	Greater Directors’ Retirement Plan	3.64			2.77			N/A			N/A
	LIB Directors’ Retirement Plan	0.5			0.63			N/A			N/A
	Other Postretirement Benefit Plan:
	Astoria Bank Retiree Health Care Plan	4.8			3.98			N/A			N/A
Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates	The following table presents the assumed health care cost trend rates at the dates indicated.
		At December 31,
		2014			2013
	Health care cost trend rate assumed for the next year:
	Pre-age 65	6.7	%		7	%
	Post-age 65	9	%		10	%
	Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5	%		5	%
	Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2021			2021
Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates
	Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plan.  The following table presents the effects of a one-percentage point change in assumed health care cost trend rates.
	(In Thousands)	One Percentage						One Percentage
		Point Increase						Point Decrease
	Effect on total service and interest cost components		$	418					$	(328	)
	Effect on the postretirement benefit obligation		5,301						(4,092		)
Total Benefits Expected to be Paid under Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan
	The following table summarizes total benefits expected to be paid under our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plan as of December 31, 2014, which reflect expected future service as appropriate.
	Year	Pension				Other
		Benefits				Postretirement
						Benefits
		(In Thousands)
	2015	$	11,961				$	973
	2016	15,932					1,043
	2017	13,991					1,094
	2018	13,143					1,176
	2019	13,644					1,226
	2020-2024	70,132					6,780
Astoria Bank | Pension benefits
Benefit Plans
Schedule of Significant Unobservable Inputs Table Text Block [Table Text Block]	The following table presents information about significant unobservable inputs related to the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s investment in Level 3 assets at the dates indicated.
		PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account
		Range at December 31,
		2014				2013
	Significant unobservable inputs:
	Composite market value factor		1.018	-	1.081		0.988	-	1.073
	Gross guaranteed crediting rate (1)		2.50%	-	4.00%		2.10%	-	4.35%
	_______________________________
	-1	Gross guaranteed crediting rates must be greater than or equal to contractual minimum crediting rate.
Asset Allocations by Asset Category and Fair Value Hierarchy Level for Astoria Bank Pension Plan	The following tables set forth the carrying values of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s assets measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at the dates indicated.
		Carrying Value at December 31, 2014
	(In Thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
	PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts (1)	$	162,808			$	—			$	162,808			$	—
	Astoria Financial Corporation common stock	12,404				12,404				—				—
	PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account	11,858				—				—				11,858
	Cash and cash equivalents	4				4				—				—
	Total	$	187,074			$	12,408			$	162,808			$	11,858
	-1	Consists of 41% large-cap equity securities, 38% debt securities, 9% international equities, 7% small-cap equity securities and 5% mid-cap equity securities.
		Carrying Value at December 31, 2013
	(In Thousands)	Total				Level 1				Level 2				Level 3
	PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts (1)	$	170,377			$	—			$	170,377			$	—
	Astoria Financial Corporation common stock	12,687				12,687				—				—
	PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account	6,299				—				—				6,299
	Cash and cash equivalents	4				4				—				—
	Total	$	189,367			$	12,691			$	170,377			$	6,299
	-1	Consists of 41% large-cap equity securities, 35% debt securities, 11% international equities, 8% small-cap equity securities and 5% mid-cap equity securities.
Changes in Fair Value of Astoria Bank Pension Plan's Level 3 Assets	The following table sets forth a summary of changes in the estimated fair value of the Astoria Bank Pension Plan’s Level 3 assets for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)		2014						2013
	Fair value at beginning of year		$	6,299					$	7,177
	Total net gain, realized and unrealized, included in change in net assets (1)		191						21
	Purchases		23,925						9,000
	Sales		(18,557		)				(9,899		)
	Fair value at end of year		$	11,858					$	6,299
	-1	Includes unrealized gain related to assets held at December 31, 2014 of $477,000 for the year ended December 31, 2014 and unrealized gain related to assets held at December 31, 2013 of $313,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Stock_Incentive_Plans_Tables

Stock Incentive Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Summary of Restricted Common Stock Grant Awards by Year for Grant Years with Unvested Shares and Remaining Vesting Schedule	The following table summarizes employee restricted common stock grant awards by year for grant years with unvested shares outstanding at December 31, 2014 and the remaining vesting schedule.
		2014		2013			2012	2011
	Number of shares of restricted common stock:
	Granted during the year	482,001		494,420			155,000	663,530
	Unvested at December 31, 2014	341,861		154,040			51,500	144,802
	Scheduled to vest during the year ending:
	December 31, 2015	156,137		152,040			51,500	79,802
	December 31, 2016	157,337		2,000			—	65,000		-1
	December 31, 2017	28,387		—			—	—
	_______________________________
	-1	Shares of restricted common stock granted under a performance-based award which will vest on June 30, 2016 if the performance conditions are met.
Share-based Compensation, Performance Shares Award Unvested Activity	The following table summarizes restricted stock units awarded by year for grant years with unvested units outstanding at December 31, 2014.
		2014			2013
	Number of shares of restricted stock units:
	Granted during the year		395,900			432,300
	Unvested at December 31, 2014		382,600			393,900
	Vest date	February 1, 2017			February 1, 2016
	Performance measurement period:
	Fiscal year ended	December 31, 2016			December 31, 2015
Restricted Common Stock Activity in Stock Incentive Plans	The following table summarizes restricted common stock and performance-based restricted stock unit activity in our stock incentive plans for the year ended December 31, 2014.
		Restricted Common Stock						Restricted Stock Units
		Number of		Weighted Average				Number of			Weighted Average
		Shares		Grant Date Fair Value				Units			Grant Date Fair Value
	Unvested at beginning of year	781,644			$	11.46		409,100				$	9.22
	Granted	514,507			12.58			395,900				12.14
	Vested	(512,042	)		(11.91		)	—				—
	Forfeited	(31,408	)		(11.91		)	(28,500	)			(10.58		)
	Unvested at end of year	752,701			11.9			776,500				10.66
Option Activity in Stock Incentive Plans	The following table summarizes option activity in our stock incentive plans for the year ended December 31, 2014.
		Number of		Weighted Average
		Options		Exercise Price
	Outstanding at beginning of year	1,102,650			$	26.68
	Expired	(1,066,650	)		(26.62		)
	Outstanding and exercisable at end of year	36,000			28.58

Regulatory_Matters_Tables

Regulatory Matters (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Regulatory Capital Requirements [Abstract]
Regulatory Capital Requirements Applicable to Astoria Bank	The following tables set forth information regarding the regulatory capital requirements applicable to Astoria Bank at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Actual				Minimum					To be Well Capitalized
						Capital Requirements					Under Prompt
											Corrective Action
											Provisions
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio
	Tangible	$	1,632,390	10.62	%		$	230,633	1.5	%		N/A		N/A
	Tier 1 leverage	1,632,390		10.62			615,022		4			$	768,777	5	%
	Tier 1 risk-based	1,632,390		17.55			372,118		4			558,177		6
	Total risk-based	1,744,905		18.76			744,236		8			930,295		10
		At December 31, 2013
		Actual				Minimum					To be Well Capitalized
						Capital Requirements					Under Prompt
											Corrective Action
											Provisions
	(Dollars in Thousands)	Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio			Amount		Ratio
	Tangible	$	1,543,764	9.93	%		$	233,158	1.5	%		N/A		N/A
	Tier 1 leverage	1,543,764		9.93			621,755		4			$	777,194	5	%
	Tier 1 risk-based	1,543,764		15.79			391,083		4			586,625		6
	Total risk-based	1,666,637		17.05			782,167		8			977,708		10

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Carrying Values of Assets Measured at Estimated Fair Value on Recurring Basis and Level Within the Fair Value Hierarchy	The following tables set forth the carrying values of our assets measured at estimated fair value on a recurring basis and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at the dates indicated.
		Carrying Value at December 31, 2014
	(In Thousands)	Total			Level 1						Level 2
	Securities available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	268,998			$	—				$	268,998
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	5,104				—					5,104
	GSE pass-through certificates	13,557				—					13,557
	Obligations of GSEs	96,698				—					96,698
	Fannie Mae stock	2				2					—
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	384,359			$	2				$	384,357
		Carrying Value at December 31, 2013
	(In Thousands)	Total			Level 1						Level 2
	Securities available-for-sale:
	Residential mortgage-backed securities:
	GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	$	286,074			$	—				$	286,074
	Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs	7,572				—					7,572
	GSE pass-through certificates	16,888				—					16,888
	Obligations of GSEs	91,153				—					91,153
	Fannie Mae stock	3				3					—
	Total securities available-for-sale	$	401,690			$	3				$	401,687
Schedule of Carrying Values of Assets Measured at Fair Value on Non-Recurring Basis Which Fall Within Level 3 of the Fair Value Hierarchy	The following table sets forth the carrying values of those of our assets which were measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis at the dates indicated.  The fair value measurements for all of these assets fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
		Carrying Value at December 31,
	(In Thousands)		2014					2013
	Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net		$	153				$	791
	Impaired loans		140,663					271,408
	MSR, net		11,401					12,800
	REO, net		19,375					27,101
	Total		$	171,592				$	312,100
Schedule of Losses Recognized on Assets Measured at Fair Value on Non-Recurring Basis	The following table provides information regarding the losses recognized on our assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis for the years indicated.
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013				2012
	Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net (1)	$	—		$	520			$	1,066
	Impaired loans (2)	6,311			21,992				40,018
	MSR, net (3)	—			—				931
	REO, net (4)	1,654			3,788				3,137
	Total	$	7,965		$	26,300			$	45,152
	-1	Losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses in the case of a write-down upon the transfer of a loan to held-for-sale.  Losses subsequent to the transfer of a loan to held-for-sale are charged to other non-interest income.
	-2	Losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses.
	-3	Losses are charged to mortgage banking income, net.
	-4	Losses are charged against the allowance for loan losses in the case of a write-down upon the transfer of a loan to REO.  Losses subsequent to the transfer of a loan to REO are charged to REO expense which is a component of other non-interest expense.
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments	The following tables set forth the carrying values and estimated fair values of our financial instruments which are carried in the consolidated statements of financial condition at either cost or at lower of cost or fair value in accordance with GAAP, and are not measured or recorded at fair value on a recurring basis, and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall at the dates indicated.
		At December 31, 2014
		Carrying			Estimated Fair Value
	(In Thousands)	Value			Total				Level 2				Level 3
	Financial Assets:
	Securities held-to-maturity	$	2,133,804		$	2,131,371			$	2,131,371			$	—
	FHLB-NY stock	140,754			140,754				140,754				—
	Loans held-for-sale, net (1)	7,640			7,955				—				7,955
	Loans receivable, net (1)	11,845,848			11,967,608				—				11,967,608
	MSR, net (1)	11,401			11,406				—				11,406
	Financial Liabilities:
	Deposits	9,504,909			9,534,918				9,534,918				—
	Borrowings, net	4,187,691			4,395,604				4,395,604				—
		At December 31, 2013
		Carrying			Estimated Fair Value
	(In Thousands)	Value			Total				Level 2				Level 3
	Financial Assets:
	Securities held-to-maturity	$	1,849,526		$	1,811,122			$	1,811,122			$	—
	FHLB-NY stock	152,207			152,207				152,207				—
	Loans held-for-sale, net (1)	7,375			7,436				—				7,436
	Loans receivable, net (1)	12,303,066			12,480,533				—				12,480,533
	MSR, net (1)	12,800			12,804				—				12,804
	Financial Liabilities:
	Deposits	9,855,310			9,922,631				9,922,631				—
	Borrowings, net	4,137,161			4,376,336				4,376,336				—
	_______________________________
	-1	Includes assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis.

Condensed_Parent_Company_Only_1

Condensed Parent Company Only Financial Statements (Tables) (Astoria Financial Corporation)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Astoria Financial Corporation
Statement
Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Financial Condition	Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Financial Condition
		At December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013
	Assets:
	Cash	$	75,199		$	63,418
	Other assets	711			103
	Investment in Astoria Bank	1,755,078			1,705,964
	Investment in AF Insurance Agency, Inc.	1,134			1,233
	Total assets	$	1,832,122		$	1,770,718
	Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
	Other borrowings, net	$	248,691		$	248,161
	Other liabilities	3,361			3,044
	Stockholders’ equity	1,580,070			1,519,513
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	1,832,122		$	1,770,718
Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Income	Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Income
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Interest income:
	Repurchase agreements	$	—		$	—		$	18
	ESOP loans receivable	—			344			728
	Total interest income	—			344			746
	Interest expense on borrowings	13,031			17,398			29,689
	Net interest expense	13,031			17,054			28,943
	Cash dividends from subsidiaries	40,620			45,150			42,000
	Non-interest expense:
	Compensation and benefits	2,925			3,261			3,735
	Extinguishment of debt	—			4,266			1,212
	Other	3,262			3,148			2,878
	Total non-interest expense	6,187			10,675			7,825
	Income before income taxes and equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	21,402			17,421			5,232
	Income tax benefit	6,662			9,644			12,844
	Income before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	28,064			27,065			18,076
	Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	67,852			39,528			35,015
	Net income	95,916			66,593			53,091
	Preferred stock dividends	8,775			7,214			—
	Net income available to common shareholders	$	87,141		$	59,379		$	53,091
Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Cash Flows	Astoria Financial Corporation - Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
		For the Year Ended December 31,
	(In Thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Cash flows from operating activities:
	Net income	$	95,916		$	66,593		$	53,091
	Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
	Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	(67,852		)	(39,528		)	(35,015		)
	Amortization of deferred costs	531			531			837
	(Increase) decrease in other assets, net of other liabilities and amounts due to subsidiaries	(484		)	(998		)	846
	Net cash provided by operating activities	28,111			26,598			19,759
	Cash flows from investing activities:
	Principal payments on ESOP loans receivable	—			5,908			6,235
	Redemption of Astoria Capital Trust I common securities	—			3,866			—
	Net cash provided by investing activities	—			9,774			6,235
	Cash flows from financing activities:
	Proceeds from borrowings with original terms greater than three months	—			—			250,000
	Repayment of borrowings with original terms greater than three months	—			(128,866		)	(250,000		)
	Cash payments for debt issuance costs	—			—			(2,653		)
	Proceeds from issuance of common and preferred stock	8,121			135,000			—
	Cash payments for preferred stock issuance costs	—			(5,204		)	—
	Cash dividends paid to stockholders	(24,643		)	(20,688		)	(24,104		)
	Net tax benefit excess (shortfall) from stock-based compensation	192			(800		)	(4,123		)
	Net cash used in financing activities	(16,330		)	(20,558		)	(30,880		)
	Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	11,781			15,814			(4,886		)
	Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	63,418			47,604			52,490
	Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	$	75,199		$	63,418		$	47,604
	Supplemental disclosure:
	Cash paid during the year for interest	$	12,500		$	18,898		$	31,535

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Federal reserve system cash reserve requirement	$42.20	$37.70

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Period of time after which we discontinue accruing interest on loans	90 days
Period of time in non-accrual status for restructured loans to demonstrate performance	6 months
Period after which loans are individually evaluated for impairment	180 days
Length of period one over which the historical loss experience is analyzed	12 months
Length of period two over which the historical loss experience is analyzed	15 months
Length of period three over which the historical loss experience is analyzed	18 months
Length of period four over which the historical loss experience is analyzed	24 months
Minimum length of period over which the historical loss experience is analyzed for a particular loan type that may not have sufficient loss history	2 years
Extended prior period over which loss experience factors are evaluated to consider trends for the majority of loan portfolio	2 years

Summary_of_Significant_Account4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Premises and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Accumulated depreciation and amortization of premises and equipment	$203.90	$194.10

Summary_of_Significant_Account5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Goodwill	$185,151,000	$185,151,000
Goodwill impairment	$0

Summary_of_Significant_Account6

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Bank Owned Life Insurance (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Bank owned life insurance, cash surrender value	$402,100,000	$395,800,000
Bank owned life insurance, stabilization reserve	28,700,000	27,600,000
Bank owned life insurance, deferred acquisition costs		$1,000

Summary_of_Significant_Account7

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Real Estate Owned (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Real estate owned, valuation allowance for losses	$839,000	$834,000

Summary_of_Significant_Account8

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Earnings Per Common Share (Details)	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Unallocated common stock held by ESOP shares	0

Securities_Details

Securities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Securities
Available-for-sale, amortized cost	$383,631	$414,457
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized gains	4,282	1,904
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses	-3,554	-14,671
Total available-for-sale securities	384,359	401,690
Total held-to-maturity securities	2,133,804	1,849,526
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized gains	17,605	13,023
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized losses	-20,038	-51,427
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	2,131,371	1,811,122
GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs
Securities
Available-for-sale, amortized cost	266,946	292,131
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized gains	3,608	1,077
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses	-1,556	-7,134
Total available-for-sale securities	268,998	286,074
Total held-to-maturity securities	1,575,402	1,474,506
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized gains	14,536	12,877
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized losses	-14,041	-33,925
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	1,575,897	1,453,458
Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs
Securities
Available-for-sale, amortized cost	5,071	7,516
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized gains	34	57
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses	-1	-1
Total available-for-sale securities	5,104	7,572
Total held-to-maturity securities	2,482	3,833
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized gains	31	61
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized losses	-7	-10
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	2,506	3,884
GSE pass-through certificates
Securities
Available-for-sale, amortized cost	12,919	16,120
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized gains	640	770
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses	-2	-2
Total available-for-sale securities	13,557	16,888
Total held-to-maturity securities	281,685	282,473
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized gains	2,442	85
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized losses	-3,877	-10,089
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	280,250	272,469
Total residential mortgage-backed securities
Securities
Available-for-sale, amortized cost	284,936	315,767
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized gains	4,282	1,904
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses	-1,559	-7,137
Total available-for-sale securities	287,659	310,534
Total held-to-maturity securities	1,859,569	1,760,812
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized gains	17,009	13,023
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized losses	-17,925	-44,024
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	1,858,653	1,729,811
Multi-family mortgage-backed securities
Securities
Total held-to-maturity securities	154,381
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized gains	554
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized losses	-590
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	154,345
Obligations of GSEs
Securities
Available-for-sale, amortized cost	98,680	98,675
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses	-1,982	-7,522
Total available-for-sale securities	96,698	91,153
Total held-to-maturity securities	119,336	88,128
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized gains	42
Held-to-maturity, gross unrealized losses	-1,523	-7,403
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	117,855	80,725
Fannie Mae stock
Securities
Available-for-sale, amortized cost	15	15
Available-for-sale, gross unrealized losses	-13	-12
Total available-for-sale securities	2	3
Other
Securities
Total held-to-maturity securities	518	586
Held-to-maturity securities, fair value	$518	$586

Securities_Details_2

Securities (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Securities
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, estimated fair value	$45,226	$334,474
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	555	14,657
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, gross unrealized losses	-892	-43,112
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	147,718	205
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, gross unrealized losses	-2,999	-14
Available-for-sale, total, estimated fair value	192,944	334,679
Available-for-sale, total, gross unrealized losses	-3,554	-14,671
Held-to-maturity, less than twelve months, estimated fair value	222,216	1,031,627
Held-to-maturity, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	744,508	151,609
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	19,146	8,315
Held-to-maturity, total, estimated fair value	966,724	1,183,236
Held-to-maturity, total, gross unrealized losses	-20,038	-51,427
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	-2,133,804	-1,849,526
GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs
Securities
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, estimated fair value	20,587	243,149
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	159	7,134
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, gross unrealized losses	-302	-25,611
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	75,444
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, gross unrealized losses	-1,397
Available-for-sale, total, estimated fair value	96,031	243,149
Available-for-sale, total, gross unrealized losses	-1,556	-7,134
Held-to-maturity, less than twelve months, estimated fair value	121,861	719,715
Held-to-maturity, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	500,348	151,581
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	13,739	8,314
Held-to-maturity, total, estimated fair value	622,209	871,296
Held-to-maturity, total, gross unrealized losses	-14,041	-33,925
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	-1,575,402	-1,474,506
Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs
Securities
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, gross unrealized losses		-10
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	96	132
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, gross unrealized losses	-1	-1
Available-for-sale, total, estimated fair value	96	132
Available-for-sale, total, gross unrealized losses	-1	-1
Held-to-maturity, less than twelve months, estimated fair value		392
Held-to-maturity, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	294
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	7
Held-to-maturity, total, estimated fair value	294	392
Held-to-maturity, total, gross unrealized losses	-7	-10
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	-2,482	-3,833
GSE pass-through certificates
Securities
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, estimated fair value	53	172
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	1	1
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, gross unrealized losses		-10,088
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	64	70
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, gross unrealized losses	-1	-1
Available-for-sale, total, estimated fair value	117	242
Available-for-sale, total, gross unrealized losses	-2	-2
Held-to-maturity, less than twelve months, estimated fair value		230,795
Held-to-maturity, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	164,453	28
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	3,877	1
Held-to-maturity, total, estimated fair value	164,453	230,823
Held-to-maturity, total, gross unrealized losses	-3,877	-10,089
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	-281,685	-282,473
Multi-family mortgage-backed securities
Securities
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, gross unrealized losses	-590
Held-to-maturity, less than twelve months, estimated fair value	100,355
Held-to-maturity, total, estimated fair value	100,355
Held-to-maturity, total, gross unrealized losses	-590
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	-154,381
Obligations of GSEs
Securities
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, estimated fair value	24,586	91,153
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	395	7,522
Available-for-sale, less than twelve months, gross unrealized losses		-7,403
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	72,112
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, gross unrealized losses	-1,587
Available-for-sale, total, estimated fair value	96,698	91,153
Available-for-sale, total, gross unrealized losses	-1,982	-7,522
Held-to-maturity, less than twelve months, estimated fair value		80,725
Held-to-maturity, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	79,413
Held-to-maturity Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss	1,523
Held-to-maturity, total, estimated fair value	79,413	80,725
Held-to-maturity, total, gross unrealized losses	-1,523	-7,403
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	-119,336	-88,128
Fannie Mae stock
Securities
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, estimated fair value	2	3
Available-for-sale, twelve months or longer, gross unrealized losses	-13	-12
Available-for-sale, total, estimated fair value	2	3
Available-for-sale, total, gross unrealized losses	($13)	($12)

Securities_Details_3

Securities (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	security	security
Securities
Number of securities held with unrealized loss	80	109
Proceeds from sales of securities available-for-sale	$14,447,000	$41,640,000	$60,318,000
Gross realized gains from sale of available for sale securities	141,000	2,057,000	8,477,000
Total available-for-sale securities	384,359,000	401,690,000
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	2,133,804,000	1,849,526,000
Held-to-maturity, fair value	2,131,371,000	1,811,122,000
Callable securities, amortized cost	218,000,000
Callable securities amortized cost, callable within one year and thereafter	201,600,000
Accrued interest receivable for securities	6,700,000	6,300,000
Available-for-sale debt securities, excluding mortgage-backed securities
Securities
Available-for-sale debt securities, amortized cost	98,700,000
Total available-for-sale securities	96,700,000
Held-to-maturity debt securities, excluding mortgage-backed securities
Securities
Held-to-maturity, amortized cost	119,900,000
Held-to-maturity, fair value	$118,400,000

Loans_HeldforSale_Details

Loans Held-for-Sale (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Loans held-for-sale, net	$7,640,000	$7,375,000
Net gain (loss) on sales of loans	1,763,000	6,880,000	7,590,000
Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Loans held-for-sale, net	153,000	791,000
Sale of delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans, net of charge-offs, amount	4,900,000	19,400,000	22,000,000
Charge-offs on delinquent and non-performing mortgage loans sold	517,000	5,200,000	11,500,000
Net gain (loss) on sales of loans	-892,000	122,000	1,300,000
Net lower of cost or market write-downs		$87,000	$272,000
Non-performing multi family mortgage loans
Mortgage Loans on Real Estate [Line Items]
Number of non-performing loans held-for-sale	1

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance2

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	$82,526	$115,982
Past due 60-89 days	25,313	26,750
Past due 90 days or more	62,834	250,534
Total past due	170,673	393,266
Current	11,739,049	11,993,112
Total	11,909,722	12,386,378
Deferred loan origination costs	47,726	55,688
Loans receivable	11,957,448	12,442,066
Allowance for loan losses	-111,600	-139,000	-145,501	-157,185
Loans receivable, net	11,845,848	12,303,066
Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	77,097	107,754
Past due 60-89 days	22,852	24,154
Past due 90 days or more	4,093	384
Total past due	104,042	132,292
Current	11,681,961	11,922,468
Total	11,786,003	12,054,760
Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	5,429	8,228
Past due 60-89 days	2,461	2,596
Past due 90 days or more	58,741	250,150
Total past due	66,631	260,974
Current	57,088	70,644
Total	123,719	331,618
Consumer and other loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	2,430	3,177
Past due 60-89 days	962	1,340
Past due 90 days or more	6,040	5,948
Total past due	9,432	10,465
Current	239,936	229,216
Total	249,368	239,681
Allowance for loan losses	-8,825	-8,824	-6,316	-3,800
Consumer and other loans | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	2,430	3,177
Past due 60-89 days	962	1,340
Total past due	3,392	4,517
Current	239,936	229,184
Total	243,328	233,701
Consumer and other loans | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 90 days or more	6,040	5,948
Total past due	6,040	5,948
Current		32
Total	6,040	5,980
Consumer and other loans | Home equity and other consumer
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	2,430	3,177
Past due 60-89 days	962	1,340
Past due 90 days or more	6,040	5,948
Total past due	9,432	10,465
Current	175,121	198,458
Total	184,553	208,923
Consumer and other loans | Home equity and other consumer | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	2,430	3,177
Past due 60-89 days	962	1,340
Total past due	3,392	4,517
Current	175,121	198,426
Total	178,513	202,943
Consumer and other loans | Home equity and other consumer | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 90 days or more	6,040	5,948
Total past due	6,040	5,948
Current		32
Total	6,040	5,980
Consumer and other loans | Commercial and industrial
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Current	64,815	30,758
Total	64,815	30,758
Consumer and other loans | Commercial and industrial | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Current	64,815	30,758
Total	64,815	30,758
Mortgage loans (gross)
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	80,096	112,805
Past due 60-89 days	24,351	25,410
Past due 90 days or more	56,794	244,586
Total past due	161,241	382,801
Current	11,499,113	11,763,896
Total	11,660,354	12,146,697
Mortgage loans (gross) | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	74,667	104,577
Past due 60-89 days	21,890	22,814
Past due 90 days or more	4,093	384
Total past due	100,650	127,775
Current	11,442,025	11,693,284
Total	11,542,675	11,821,059
Mortgage loans (gross) | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	5,429	8,228
Past due 60-89 days	2,461	2,596
Past due 90 days or more	52,701	244,202
Total past due	60,591	255,026
Current	57,088	70,612
Total	117,679	325,638
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	73,326	96,302
Past due 60-89 days	21,290	22,393
Past due 90 days or more	44,989	234,378
Total past due	139,605	353,073
Current	6,733,931	7,684,203
Total	6,873,536	8,037,276
Allowance for loan losses	-46,283	-80,337	-89,267	-105,991
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	69,335	90,108
Past due 60-89 days	19,175	20,154
Past due 90 days or more	144	151
Total past due	88,654	110,413
Current	6,684,871	7,621,388
Total	6,773,525	7,731,801
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	3,991	6,194
Past due 60-89 days	2,115	2,239
Past due 90 days or more	44,845	234,227
Total past due	50,951	242,660
Current	49,060	62,815
Total	100,011	305,475
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	16,314	29,476
Past due 60-89 days	7,690	5,802
Past due 90 days or more	11,502	78,271
Total past due	35,506	113,549
Current	818,676	1,268,652
Total	854,182	1,382,201
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	13,943	27,291
Past due 60-89 days	7,332	5,220
Total past due	21,275	32,511
Current	804,880	1,249,462
Total	826,155	1,281,973
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	2,371	2,185
Past due 60-89 days	358	582
Past due 90 days or more	11,502	78,271
Total past due	14,231	81,038
Current	13,796	19,190
Total	28,027	100,228
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	26,082	32,516
Past due 60-89 days	7,849	8,068
Past due 90 days or more	14,355	42,085
Total past due	48,286	82,669
Current	4,955,407	5,336,788
Total	5,003,693	5,419,457
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	25,878	31,189
Past due 60-89 days	7,611	7,415
Past due 90 days or more	144	151
Total past due	33,633	38,755
Current	4,948,391	5,325,944
Total	4,982,024	5,364,699
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	204	1,327
Past due 60-89 days	238	653
Past due 90 days or more	14,211	41,934
Total past due	14,653	43,914
Current	7,016	10,844
Total	21,669	54,758
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	19,310	24,700
Past due 60-89 days	3,037	5,787
Past due 90 days or more	16,289	87,910
Total past due	38,636	118,397
Current	572,372	721,264
Total	611,008	839,661
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	18,490	22,635
Past due 60-89 days	2,584	5,208
Total past due	21,074	27,843
Current	547,350	693,660
Total	568,424	721,503
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	820	2,065
Past due 60-89 days	453	579
Past due 90 days or more	16,289	87,910
Total past due	17,562	90,554
Current	25,022	27,604
Total	42,584	118,158
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	11,620	9,610
Past due 60-89 days	2,714	2,736
Past due 90 days or more	2,843	26,112
Total past due	17,177	38,458
Current	387,476	357,499
Total	404,653	395,957
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	11,024	8,993
Past due 60-89 days	1,648	2,311
Total past due	12,672	11,304
Current	384,250	352,322
Total	396,922	363,626
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	596	617
Past due 60-89 days	1,066	425
Past due 90 days or more	2,843	26,112
Total past due	4,505	27,154
Current	3,226	5,177
Total	7,731	32,331
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	4,294	13,844
Past due 60-89 days	2,568	1,327
Past due 90 days or more	8,917	9,054
Total past due	15,779	24,225
Current	3,897,274	3,272,230
Total	3,913,053	3,296,455
Allowance for loan losses	-39,250	-36,703	-35,514	-35,422
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	3,646	12,740
Past due 60-89 days	2,222	970
Past due 90 days or more	1,790
Total past due	7,658	13,710
Current	3,893,539	3,270,206
Total	3,901,197	3,283,916
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	648	1,104
Past due 60-89 days	346	357
Past due 90 days or more	7,127	9,054
Total past due	8,121	10,515
Current	3,735	2,024
Total	11,856	12,539
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	2,476	2,659
Past due 60-89 days	493	1,690
Past due 90 days or more	2,888	1,154
Total past due	5,857	5,503
Current	867,908	807,463
Total	873,765	812,966
Allowance for loan losses	-17,242	-13,136	-14,404	-11,972
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate | Accruing loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	1,686	1,729
Past due 60-89 days	493	1,690
Past due 90 days or more	2,159	233
Total past due	4,338	3,652
Current	863,615	801,690
Total	867,953	805,342
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate | Non-accrual loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Past due 30-59 days	790	930
Past due 90 days or more	729	921
Total past due	1,519	1,851
Current	4,293	5,773
Total	$5,812	$7,624

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance3

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Sep. 12, 2014	Jul. 31, 2014
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Charge-offs	$29,589,000	$37,040,000	$61,217,000
Provision for loan losses (credited) charged to operations	-9,469,000	19,601,000	40,400,000
Accrued interest receivable	36,628,000	37,926,000
Loans (gross) amount	11,909,722,000	12,386,378,000
Residential mortgage loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Amortizing hybrid ARM fixed rate period one	5 years	3 years
Amortizing hybrid ARM fixed rate period two	7 years
Amortizing hybrid ARM fixed rate period three	10 years
Amortizing interest-only hybrid ARM fixed rate period two, prior to the 2010 fourth quarter	5 years
Amortizing interest-only hybrid ARM fixed rate period three, prior to the 2010 fourth quarter	7 years
Interest-Only Hybrid ARM Loans, Interest-Only Payment Term	10 years
Residential mortgage loans | Geographic concentration risk | Minimum
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of total	5.00%
Non-performing multi family mortgage loans | Multi family and commercial real estate mortgage loan | New York Metropolitan Area [Member]
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Percentage of total	85.00%
Non-performing
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Non-accrual loans, interest that would have been recognized	5,600,000	15,600,000	16,800,000
Actual payment recorded as interest income	3,600,000	6,200,000	4,300,000
Total loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accrued interest receivable	29,900,000	31,700,000
Mortgage loans (gross)
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans (gross) amount	11,660,354,000	12,146,697,000
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Charge-offs	19,868,000	26,644,000	49,794,000
Provision for loan losses (credited) charged to operations	-23,464,000	9,368,000	24,663,000
Loans (gross) amount	6,873,536,000	8,037,276,000
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Pre 2007 interest only loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans (gross) amount	1,060,000,000	1,660,000,000
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans (gross) amount	1,020,000,000	1,240,000,000
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation loans | SISA (stated income, stated asset) loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Loans (gross) amount	148,900,000	193,000,000
Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net | Residential mortgage loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Charge-offs					8,700,000
Non performing residential mortgage loans transferred to held for sale					195,000,000
Non performing residential mortgage loans held for sale					186,300,000
Provision for loan losses (credited) charged to operations					-5,700,000
Carrying value, loans sold						4,000,000	173,700,000
Gain (loss) on sales of loans, net				$920,000

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance4

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Loans receivable and allowance for loan losses
Balance at the beginning of the period	$139,000	$145,501	$157,185
Provision (credited) charged to operations	-9,469	19,601	40,400
Charge-offs	-29,589	-37,040	-61,217
Recoveries	11,658	10,938	9,133
Balance at the end of the period	111,600	139,000	145,501
Consumer and other loans
Loans receivable and allowance for loan losses
Balance at the beginning of the period	8,824	6,316	3,800
Provision (credited) charged to operations	1,709	3,604	4,538
Charge-offs	-2,073	-1,916	-2,541
Recoveries	365	820	519
Balance at the end of the period	8,825	8,824	6,316
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans
Loans receivable and allowance for loan losses
Balance at the beginning of the period	80,337	89,267	105,991
Provision (credited) charged to operations	-23,464	9,368	24,663
Charge-offs	-19,868	-26,644	-49,794
Recoveries	9,278	8,346	8,407
Balance at the end of the period	46,283	80,337	89,267
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family
Loans receivable and allowance for loan losses
Balance at the beginning of the period	36,703	35,514	35,422
Provision (credited) charged to operations	5,337	4,684	6,161
Charge-offs	-4,365	-4,732	-6,275
Recoveries	1,575	1,237	206
Balance at the end of the period	39,250	36,703	35,514
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate
Loans receivable and allowance for loan losses
Balance at the beginning of the period	13,136	14,404	11,972
Provision (credited) charged to operations	6,949	1,945	5,038
Charge-offs	-3,283	-3,748	-2,607
Recoveries	440	535	1
Balance at the end of the period	$17,242	$13,136	$14,404

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance5

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 4) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Recorded Investment
Total	$11,909,722	$12,386,378
Residential mortgage loans | Interest-only loans
Recorded Investment
2015	573,633
2016	415,608
2017	390,439
2018 and thereafter	85,510
Total	$1,465,190

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance6

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 5) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Recorded Investment
Total	$11,909,722	$12,386,378
Past due 90 days or more	62,834	250,534
Consumer and other loans
Recorded Investment
Total	249,368	239,681
Past due 90 days or more	6,040	5,948
Consumer and other loans | Home equity and other consumer
Recorded Investment
Total	184,553	208,923
Consumer and other loans | Commercial and industrial
Recorded Investment
Total	64,815	30,758
Mortgage loans (gross)
Recorded Investment
Total	11,660,354	12,146,697
Past due 90 days or more	56,794	244,586
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans
Recorded Investment
Total	6,873,536	8,037,276
Past due 90 days or more	44,989	234,378
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Recorded Investment
Total	854,182	1,382,201
Past due 90 days or more	11,502	78,271
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Recorded Investment
Total	5,003,693	5,419,457
Past due 90 days or more	14,355	42,085
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Recorded Investment
Total	611,008	839,661
Past due 90 days or more	16,289	87,910
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Recorded Investment
Total	404,653	395,957
Past due 90 days or more	2,843	26,112
Performing | Consumer and other loans | Home equity and other consumer
Recorded Investment
Total	178,513	202,943
Performing | Consumer and other loans | Commercial and industrial
Recorded Investment
Total	64,815	30,758
Performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Recorded Investment
Total	826,155	1,281,973
Performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Recorded Investment
Total	4,981,880	5,364,548
Performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Recorded Investment
Total	568,424	721,503
Performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Recorded Investment
Total	396,922	363,626
Non-performing | Consumer and other loans | Home equity and other consumer
Recorded Investment
Current or past due less than 90 days		32
Past due 90 days or more	6,040	5,948
Non-performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Recorded Investment
Current or past due less than 90 days	16,525	21,957
Past due 90 days or more	11,502	78,271
Non-performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Recorded Investment
Current or past due less than 90 days	7,458	12,824
Past due 90 days or more	14,355	42,085
Non-performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Recorded Investment
Current or past due less than 90 days	26,295	30,248
Past due 90 days or more	16,289	87,910
Non-performing | Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Recorded Investment
Current or past due less than 90 days	4,888	6,219
Past due 90 days or more	$2,843	$26,112

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance7

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 6) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	$11,909,722	$12,386,378
Mortgage loans (gross)
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	11,660,354	12,146,697
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	3,913,053	3,296,455
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family | Not criticized
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	3,850,068	3,209,786
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family | Special mention
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	30,975	14,063
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family | Substandard
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	31,264	72,606
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family | Doubtful
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	746
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	873,765	812,966
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate | Not criticized
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	817,404	759,114
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate | Special mention
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	22,584	9,760
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate | Substandard
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	32,664	44,092
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate | Doubtful
Balances of multi-family and commercial real estate mortgage loan receivable segments by credit quality indicator
Total	$1,113

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance8

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 7) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Individually evaluated for impairment	$248,436	$384,522
Collectively evaluated for impairment	11,661,286	12,001,856
Total	11,909,722	12,386,378
Individually evaluated for impairment	19,732	21,531
Collectively evaluated for impairment	91,868	117,469
Total allowance for loan losses	111,600	139,000	145,501	157,185
Consumer and other loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Individually evaluated for impairment	5,153
Collectively evaluated for impairment	244,215	239,681
Total	249,368	239,681
Individually evaluated for impairment	3,810
Collectively evaluated for impairment	5,015	8,824
Total allowance for loan losses	8,825	8,824	6,316	3,800
Mortgage loans (gross)
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total	11,660,354	12,146,697
Mortgage loans (gross) | Residential mortgage loans
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Individually evaluated for impairment	181,402	311,930
Collectively evaluated for impairment	6,692,134	7,725,346
Total	6,873,536	8,037,276
Individually evaluated for impairment	10,304	18,352
Collectively evaluated for impairment	35,979	61,985
Total allowance for loan losses	46,283	80,337	89,267	105,991
Mortgage loans (gross) | Multi-family
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Individually evaluated for impairment	42,611	52,538
Collectively evaluated for impairment	3,870,442	3,243,917
Total	3,913,053	3,296,455
Individually evaluated for impairment	3,172	2,877
Collectively evaluated for impairment	36,078	33,826
Total allowance for loan losses	39,250	36,703	35,514	35,422
Mortgage loans (gross) | Commercial real estate
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Individually evaluated for impairment	19,270	20,054
Collectively evaluated for impairment	854,495	792,912
Total	873,765	812,966
Individually evaluated for impairment	2,446	302
Collectively evaluated for impairment	14,796	12,834
Total allowance for loan losses	$17,242	$13,136	$14,404	$11,972

Loans_Receivable_and_Allowance9

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 8) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Loans receivable	$11,957,448	$12,442,066
Unpaid principal balance	289,737	483,132
Recorded investment	248,436	384,522
Related allowance	-19,732	-21,531
Net investment	228,704	362,991
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Unpaid principal balance, loans with an allowance recorded	55,352	142,659
Recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	46,331	109,877
Related allowance	-3,391	-6,019
Net investment, loans with an allowance recorded	42,940	103,858
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Unpaid principal balance, loans with an allowance recorded	43,044	41,136
Recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	39,994	36,091
Related allowance	-1,425	-2,458
Net investment, loans with an allowance recorded	38,569	33,633
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Unpaid principal balance, loans with an allowance recorded	90,171	183,280
Recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	76,960	140,357
Related allowance	-4,661	-7,673
Net investment, loans with an allowance recorded	72,299	132,684
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Unpaid principal balance, loans with an allowance recorded	19,463	30,660
Recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	18,117	25,605
Related allowance	-827	-2,202
Net investment, loans with an allowance recorded	17,290	23,403
Multi-family
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Unpaid principal balance, loans with an allowance recorded	34,972	19,748
Unpaid principal balance, loans without an allowance recorded	16,308	39,871
Recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	28,109	19,748
Recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded	14,502	32,790
Related allowance	-3,172	-2,877
Net investment, loans with an allowance recorded	24,937	16,871
Net investment, loans without an allowance recorded	14,502	32,790
Commercial real estate
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Unpaid principal balance, loans with an allowance recorded	24,991	5,790
Unpaid principal balance, loans without an allowance recorded		19,988
Recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	19,270	5,790
Recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded		14,264
Related allowance	-2,446	-302
Net investment, loans with an allowance recorded	16,824	5,488
Net investment, loans without an allowance recorded		14,264
Consumer and other loans | Home equity and other consumer
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Unpaid principal balance, loans with an allowance recorded	5,436
Recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	5,153
Related allowance	-3,810
Net investment, loans with an allowance recorded	1,343
Loans in process of foreclosure collateralized by residential real estate property
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Loans receivable	$24,700

Recovered_Sheet1

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 9) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment	$330,190	$396,575	$342,760
Interest income recognized	10,714	12,216	9,781
Cash basis interest income	10,922	12,677	10,212
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	84,264	106,720	10,436
Average recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded		11,547	82,631
Interest income recognized, loans with an allowance recorded	1,860	2,938	348
Interest income recognized, loans without an allowance recorded			1,633
Cash basis interest income, loans with an allowance recorded	1,920	3,068	350
Cash basis interest income, loans without an allowance recorded			1,739
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	38,340	30,790	4,482
Average recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded	365	3,517	17,554
Interest income recognized, loans with an allowance recorded	1,491	948	193
Interest income recognized, loans without an allowance recorded	0		299
Cash basis interest income, loans with an allowance recorded	1,498	974	200
Cash basis interest income, loans without an allowance recorded			332
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	112,172	145,490	11,352
Average recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded		1,669	115,593
Interest income recognized, loans with an allowance recorded	3,646	4,179	542
Interest income recognized, loans without an allowance recorded			2,555
Cash basis interest income, loans with an allowance recorded	3,671	4,371	543
Cash basis interest income, loans without an allowance recorded			2,655
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	22,137	25,460	2,445
Average recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded			17,319
Interest income recognized, loans with an allowance recorded	655	696	114
Interest income recognized, loans without an allowance recorded			367
Cash basis interest income, loans with an allowance recorded	653	729	119
Cash basis interest income, loans without an allowance recorded			384
Multi-family
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	30,291	19,130	48,196
Average recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded	17,225	33,193	14,617
Interest income recognized, loans with an allowance recorded	1,320	737	663
Interest income recognized, loans without an allowance recorded	632	1,606	2,053
Cash basis interest income, loans with an allowance recorded	1,339	789	715
Cash basis interest income, loans without an allowance recorded	633	1,671	2,088
Commercial real estate
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	17,341	8,112	12,724
Average recorded investment, loans without an allowance recorded	2,853	10,947	5,411
Interest income recognized, loans with an allowance recorded	1,065	367	495
Interest income recognized, loans without an allowance recorded		745	519
Cash basis interest income, loans with an allowance recorded	1,154	377	540
Cash basis interest income, loans without an allowance recorded		698	547
Consumer portfolio segment | Home equity and other consumer
Average recorded investment, interest income recognized and cash basis interest income related to impaired mortgage loans by segment and class
Average recorded investment, loans with an allowance recorded	5,202
Interest income recognized, loans with an allowance recorded	45
Cash basis interest income, loans with an allowance recorded	$54

Recovered_Sheet2

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 10) (Mortgage loans (gross), USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	loan	loan	loan
Information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	56	100	93
Pre-modification recorded investment	$22,744	$43,099	$62,994
Recorded investment	21,471	41,008	56,941
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	21	26	20
Pre-modification recorded investment	9,244	6,760	4,390
Recorded investment	8,726	6,730	4,355
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	4	11	11
Pre-modification recorded investment	889	3,753	3,319
Recorded investment	812	3,734	3,291
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	19	37	29
Pre-modification recorded investment	6,819	12,199	11,141
Recorded investment	6,774	12,227	11,125
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	5	11	14
Pre-modification recorded investment	809	3,404	3,984
Recorded investment	745	3,325	3,860
Multi-family
Information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	4	8	16
Pre-modification recorded investment	2,501	6,751	36,262
Recorded investment	1,981	5,888	32,005
Commercial real estate
Information about mortgage loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	3	7	3
Pre-modification recorded investment	2,482	10,232	3,898
Recorded investment	$2,433	$9,104	$2,305

Recovered_Sheet3

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 11) (Mortgage loans (gross), USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	loan	loan	loan
Information about loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	9	37	14
Recorded investment	$3,463	$9,521	$7,854
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation interest-only loans
Information about loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	1	11	1
Recorded investment	621	2,191	165
Residential mortgage loans | Full documentation amortizing loans
Information about loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	2	4	2
Recorded investment	319	1,334	643
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation interest-only loans
Information about loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	3	17	5
Recorded investment	1,123	4,190	1,829
Residential mortgage loans | Reduced documentation amortizing loans
Information about loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans		3	4
Recorded investment		788	1,628
Multi-family
Information about loans receivable by segment and class modified in troubled debt restructuring
Number of loans	3	2	2
Recorded investment	$1,400	$1,018	$3,589

Recovered_Sheet4

Loans Receivable and Allowance for Loan Losses (Details 12) (Geographic concentration risk, Residential mortgage loans)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
New York
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	29.60%
Connecticut
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	9.90%
Illinois
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	8.80%
Massachusetts
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	8.60%
Virginia
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	7.50%
New Jersey
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	6.90%
Maryland
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	6.40%
California
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	5.70%
Non-performing | New York
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	11.40%
Non-performing | Connecticut
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	4.50%
Non-performing | Illinois
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	14.30%
Non-performing | Massachusetts
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	4.40%
Non-performing | Virginia
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	10.30%
Non-performing | New Jersey
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	14.00%
Non-performing | Maryland
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	14.90%
Non-performing | California
Percentage of total residential mortgage loans by state or region
Percentage of total	11.90%

Mortgage_Servicing_Rights_Deta

Mortgage Servicing Rights (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Mortgage Servicing Rights
Unpaid principal balances of loans serviced for others	$1,450,000,000	$1,500,000,000
Mortgage servicing rights	11,401,000	12,800,000	6,947,000
Estimated fair value
Mortgage Servicing Rights
Mortgage servicing rights	$11,400,000	$12,800,000

Mortgage_Servicing_Rights_Deta1

Mortgage Servicing Rights (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Servicing Asset [Abstract]
Carrying amount before valuation allowance at beginning of year	$15,595	$15,143	$15,401
Additions – servicing obligations that result from transfers of financial assets	1,123	3,681	3,651
Amortization	-2,582	-3,229	-3,909
Carrying amount before valuation allowance at end of year	14,136	15,595	15,143
Valuation allowance at beginning of year	-2,795	-8,196	-7,265
Recovery of (provision for) valuation allowance	60	5,401	-931
Valuation allowance at end of year	-2,735	-2,795	-8,196
Net carrying amount at end of year	$11,401	$12,800	$6,947

Mortgage_Servicing_Rights_Deta2

Mortgage Servicing Rights (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Servicing Asset [Abstract]
Loan servicing fees	$4,085,000	$4,189,000	$4,070,000
Net gain on sales of loans	1,763,000	6,880,000	7,590,000
Amortization of MSR	-2,582,000	-3,229,000	-3,909,000
Recovery of (provision for) valuation allowance on MSR	60,000	5,401,000	-931,000
Total mortgage banking income, net	3,326,000	13,241,000	6,820,000
Estimated future MSR amortization
2015	2,300,000
2016	2,000,000
2017	1,600,000
2018	1,400,000
2019	$1,200,000

Deposits_Details

Deposits (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Weighted Average Rate:
Savings (as a percent)	0.05%	0.05%
Money market (as a percent)	0.24%	0.25%
NOW (as a percent)	0.06%	0.06%
Total core deposits (as a percent)	0.11%	0.11%
Certificates of deposit (as a percent)	1.47%	1.50%
Total deposits (as a percent)	0.50%	0.57%
Balance:
Savings	$2,237,142	$2,493,899
Money market	2,373,484	1,972,136
NOW	1,331,345	1,231,890
Non-interest bearing NOW and demand deposit	867,432	865,588
Total core deposits	6,809,403	6,563,513
Certificates of deposit	2,695,506	3,291,797
Total deposits	$9,504,909	$9,855,310
Percent of Total:
Savings (as a percent)	23.54%	25.31%
Money market (as a percent)	24.96%	20.01%
NOW (as a percent)	14.01%	12.50%
Non-interest bearing NOW and demand deposit (as a percent)	9.13%	8.78%
Total core deposits (as a percent)	71.64%	66.60%
Certificates of deposit (as a percent)	28.36%	33.40%
Total deposits (as a percent)	100.00%	100.00%

Deposits_Details_2

Deposits (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Deposits [Abstract]
Aggregate amount of certificates of deposit equal to or greater than $100,000	$871,200,000	$1,060,000,000
Brokered certificates of deposit	$0

Deposits_Details_3

Deposits (Details 3) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Certificates of deposit
2015, weighted average rate (as a percent)	1.44%
2016, weighted average rate (as a percent)	1.78%
2017, weighted average rate (as a percent)	1.09%
2018, weighted average rate (as a percent)	1.10%
2019, weighted average rate (as a percent)	1.50%
2020 and thereafter, weighted average rate (as a percent)	1.70%
Total, weighted average rate (as a percent)	1.47%
2015, balance	$1,577,360
2016, balance	551,619
2017, balance	277,620
2018, balance	101,213
2019, Balance	186,384
2020 and thereafter, balance	1,310
Total, balance	$2,695,506	$3,291,797
2015 (as a percent)	58.52%
2016 (as a percent)	20.46%
2017 (as a percent)	10.30%
2018 (as a percent)	3.76%
2019 (as a percent)	6.91%
2020 and thereafter (as a percent)	0.05%
Percent of total	100.00%

Deposits_Details_4

Deposits (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Deposits [Abstract]
Savings	$1,182	$1,329	$4,437
Money market	5,527	5,646	8,944
Interest-bearing NOW	706	691	978
Certificates of deposit	43,940	54,951	83,662
Total interest expense on deposits	$51,355	$62,617	$98,021

Borrowings_Details

Borrowings (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Commitment and Contingencies
Total borrowings, net	$4,187,691,000	$4,137,161,000
Weighted average rate (as a percent)	2.26%	2.41%
Reverse repurchase agreements
Commitment and Contingencies
Reverse repurchase agreements	1,100,000,000	1,100,000,000	1,100,000,000
Weighted average rate, long-term debt	3.62%	3.87%	4.32%
FHLB advances | FHLB-NY
Commitment and Contingencies
FHLB-NY advances	2,384,000,000	2,454,000,000	2,897,000,000
Weighted average rate, long-term debt	1.72%	1.79%	2.07%
Other borrowings, net
Commitment and Contingencies
Other borrowings, net	248,691,000	248,161,000
Weighted average rate, long-term debt	5.00%	5.00%
Federal funds purchased
Commitment and Contingencies
Federal Funds Purchased	455,000,000	335,000,000
Weighted average rate, short-term debt	0.31%	0.28%
Federal Reserve Bank of New York
Commitment and Contingencies
FRB discount window	350,000,000
Securities pledged as collateral	102,100,000
Federal Reserve Bank of New York | Commercial real estate mortgage loans
Commitment and Contingencies
Loans pledged as collateral	$601,200,000

Borrowings_Details_2

Borrowings (Details 2) (Federal funds purchased, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Federal funds purchased
Short Term Borrowings
Average balance during the year	$377.10	$209.40
Weighted average interest rate during the year (as a percent)	0.30%	0.28%
Maximum amount outstanding at any month end during the year	$455	$335

Borrowings_Details_3

Borrowings (Details 3) (Reverse repurchase agreements, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reverse repurchase agreements
Borrowings
Average balance during the year	$1,100,000	$1,100,000	$1,422,678
Maximum balance at any month end during the year	1,100,000	1,100,000	1,700,000
Balance outstanding at end of year	$1,100,000	$1,100,000	$1,100,000
Weighted average interest rate during the year (as a percent)	3.82%	4.06%	4.28%
Weighted average interest rate at end of year	3.62%	3.87%	4.32%

Borrowings_Details_4

Borrowings (Details 4) (Reverse repurchase agreements, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reverse repurchase agreements
Borrowings
2018	$200,000,000
2019	600,000,000
2020	300,000,000
Total	1,100,000,000	1,100,000,000	1,100,000,000
Callable in 2015	100,000,000
Callable in 2016	100,000,000
Callable in 2017	$100,000,000

Borrowings_Details_5

Borrowings (Details 5) (FHLB advances, FHLB-NY, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
FHLB advances | FHLB-NY
FHLB-NY advances
Average balance during the year	$2,332,718	$2,512,425	$2,765,985
Maximum balance at any month end during the year	2,617,000	2,881,000	3,215,000
Balance outstanding at end of year	$2,384,000	$2,454,000	$2,897,000
Weighted average interest rate during the year (as a percent)	1.78%	2.00%	2.24%
Weighted average interest rate at end of year	1.72%	1.79%	2.07%

Borrowings_Details_6

Borrowings (Details 6) (FHLB advances, FHLB-NY advances, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
FHLB advances | FHLB-NY advances
FHLB-NY advances
2015	$984,000,000
2016	550,000,000
2020	850,000,000
Total	2,384,000,000	2,454,000,000	2,897,000,000
Federal Home Loan Bank Advances due overnight	209,000,000
Federal Home Loan Bank advances due in less than 30 days	475,000,000
Federal Home Loan Bank advances due after 90 days	$300,000,000

Borrowings_Details_7

Borrowings (Details 7) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 13, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	10-May-13	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 19, 2012
Borrowings
Prepayment charge	$0	$4,266,000	$1,212,000
Senior notes
Borrowings
Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent)								5.00%
Senior notes | 5.75% senior unsecured notes due 2012
Borrowings
Debt prepayment, aggregate principal amount				250,000,000
Prepayment charge					1,200,000
Senior notes | 5.00% senior unsecured notes due 2017
Borrowings
Aggregate principal amount								250,000,000
Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent)	5.00%							5.00%
Minimum notice requirement	30 days
Other borrowings, net	248,700,000	248,200,000
Reverse repurchase agreements
Borrowings
Securities pledged as collateral for repurchase agreements, Amortized Cost	1,260,000,000	1,260,000,000
Securities pledged as collateral for repurchase agreements, Fair Value	1,260,000,000	1,240,000,000
Reverse repurchase agreements | Minimum
Borrowings
Debt instrument, contractual maturities	4 years	5 years
Reverse repurchase agreements | Maximum
Borrowings
Debt instrument, contractual maturities	10 years	10 years
Junior subordinated debt
Borrowings
Aggregate principal amount						128,900,000
Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent)						9.75%
Prepayment price for Junior Subordinated Debentures as a percentage of aggregate principal amount						103.41%
Debt prepayment, aggregate principal amount						128,900,000
Prepayment charge							4,300,000
Astoria Capital Trust I
Borrowings
Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent)						9.75%
Capital Securities, aggregate liquidation amount						125,000,000
Common securities						$3,900,000

Borrowings_Details_8

Borrowings (Details 8) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Borrowings
Total interest expense on borrowings	$98,707	$113,911	$154,219
Reverse repurchase agreements
Borrowings
Total interest expense on borrowings	42,626	45,272	61,855
FHLB advances | FHLB-NY advances
Borrowings
Total interest expense on borrowings	41,911	50,654	62,675
Other borrowings
Borrowings
Total interest expense on borrowings	13,031	17,398	29,689
Federal funds purchased
Borrowings
Total interest expense on borrowings	$1,139	$587

Stockholders_Equity_Details

Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Jan. 07, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 19, 2013	Apr. 18, 2007
Stockholders' Equity
Par value (in dollars per share)		$1	$1
Issuance of preferred stock, series C			$129,796,000
Dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan, shares of authorized and unissued reserved for the plan		1,500,000
Maximum optional cash purchases amount per month of additional shares of common stock through the dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan	10,000
Sale of treasury stock, in shares		615,340
Proceeds from sales of treasury stock		8,121,000	0	0
Stock repurchase program approved						10,000,000
Percentage of common stock outstanding						10.00%
The remaining number of shares authorized to be purchased		8,107,300
Astoria Bank
Stockholders' Equity
Minimum notice period required for declaring dividend		30 days
Dividend paid by Astoria Bank		39,400,000
Series C Preferred Stock
Stockholders' Equity
Shares issued (in shares)			135,000		135,000
Depository shares representing percentage in non cumulative perpetual preferred stock, Series C					2.50%
Dividend rate (as a percent)		6.50%			6.50%
Par value (in dollars per share)					$1
Liquidation preference (in dollars per share)		$1,000			$1,000
Issuance of preferred stock, series C			$129,796,000		$129,800,000
Redemption price (in dollars per share)					$1,000
Depositary share
Stockholders' Equity
Shares issued (in shares)					5,400,000
Liquidation preference (in dollars per share)					$25
Redemption price (in dollars per share)					$25

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Nov. 19, 2014	Sep. 12, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2014
			subsidiary
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Rent expense under operating leases			$12,500,000	$13,500,000	$11,100,000
Minimum sublease rentals due in the future			4,100,000
Principal balance of loans sold with recourse provisions			355,000,000	358,100,000
Number of indemnification protection expiration days		180 days
Numbers of deficiency cure days		90 days
Standby letters of credit, term extended by guarantee			1 year
Income tax examination, estimate of possible loss	6,100,000		13,300,000
Outstanding standby letters of credit			1,200,000	513,000
Income tax examination number of subsidiaries			2
Residential mortgage loans | Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Carrying value, loans sold		4,000,000				$173,700,000

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$12,323
2016	12,347
2017	10,858
2018	9,513
2019	8,619
2020 and thereafter	36,591
Total	$90,251

Commitments_and_Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Loans held-for-sale
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments to extend credit - fixed rate	$14,800	$9,200
Mortgage Loans
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments to extend credit - adjustable rate	289,086	216,675
Commitments to extend credit - fixed rate	74,157	50,303
Commitments to purchase or sell loans	20,904	19,114
Adjustable Rate Loans
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments to purchase or sell loans	10,334	8,521
Fixed Rate
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments to purchase or sell loans	27,818	24,326
Consumer and other loans
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments to extend credit on consumer and other loans	12,345
Home equity and other consumer loans
Commitments and Contingencies
Unused lines of credit	101,329	139,598
Commercial and industrial
Commitments and Contingencies
Unused lines of credit	$64,074	$38,372

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Current:
Federal	$17,435	$24,524	($29,202)
State and local	4,033	3,722	3,201
Total current	21,468	28,246	-26,001
Deferred:
Federal	27,452	9,496	52,969
State and local	-22,641	7	912
Total deferred	4,811	9,503	53,881
Total income tax expense	$26,279	$37,749	$27,880

Income_Taxes_Details_2

Income Taxes (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Expected income tax expense at statutory federal rate	$42,768,000	$36,520,000	$28,340,000
State and local taxes, net of federal tax effect	-12,096,000	2,424,000	2,673,000
Tax exempt income (principally on BOLI)	-2,970,000	-2,945,000	-3,356,000
Non-deductible ESOP compensation		2,613,000	2,187,000
Low income housing tax credit	-1,676,000	-1,676,000	-1,727,000
Other, net	253,000	813,000	-237,000
Total income tax expense	26,279,000	37,749,000	27,880,000
New York State Division of Taxation and Finance
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Effect of enacted change in tax law	($15,700,000)

Income_Taxes_Details_3

Income Taxes (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Total gross deferred tax assets	$115,735,000	$93,558,000
Deferred tax assets:
Allowances for losses	48,243,000	54,511,000
Compensation and benefits (principally pension and other postretirement benefit plans)	45,849,000	21,955,000
Mortgage loans (principally deferred loan origination costs)	981,000	7,524,000
Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale	0	4,010,000
State and local net operating loss carryforwards	16,122,000	0
Other deductible temporary differences	4,540,000	5,558,000
Less valuation allowance	-7,220,000	0
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance	108,515,000	93,558,000
Deferred tax liabilities:
Premises and equipment	-3,102,000	-3,882,000
Net unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale	-1,035,000	0
MSR	-910,000	-69,000
Total gross deferred tax liabilities	-5,047,000	-3,951,000
Net deferred tax assets (included in other assets)	103,468,000	89,607,000
New York State Division of Taxation and Finance
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Income Tax Expense Decrease Resulting from State Tax Legislation	15,700,000
State and local taxes, net of federal tax effect	15,700,000
Operating Loss Carryforwards	199,200,000
New York City
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards	85,300,000
Total gross deferred tax assets	$7,200,000

Income_Taxes_Details_4

Income Taxes (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year	$4,009	$3,428	$3,856
Additions as a result of a tax position taken during the current period	675	600	630
Reductions as a result of tax positions taken during a prior period		-19
Reductions relating to settlement with taxing authorities	-2,529		-1,058
Unrecognized tax benefits at end of year	$2,155	$4,009	$3,428

Income_Taxes_Details_5

Income Taxes (Details 5) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Reduction in income tax expense, net of the related federal tax effects, that would result in a realization of unrecognized tax benefits	$1,400,000
Accrued liabilities for interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions	469,000	1,100,000	730,000
Interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions, income tax expense	247,000	224,000	316,000
Reduction in income tax expense, net of the related deferred tax effects, that would result in a realization of unrecognized tax benefits for the reversal of accrued interest and penalties	341,000
Base year bad debt reserves	165,800,000	165,800,000
Unrecognized deferred federal income tax liability	$58,000,000	$58,000,000

Earnings_Per_Common_Share_Deta

Earnings Per Common Share (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net income	$95,916	$66,593	$53,091
Preferred stock dividends	-8,775	-7,214	0
Net income available to common shareholders	87,141	59,379	53,091
Income allocated to participating securities	973	720	463
Net income allocated to common shareholders	$86,168	$58,659	$52,628
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding	98,384,443	97,121,497	95,455,344
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding	98,384,443	97,121,497	95,455,344
Basic EPS (in dollars per share)	$0.88	$0.60	$0.55
Diluted EPS (in dollars per share)	$0.88	$0.60	$0.55
Employee Non Employee Director Stock Option
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Shares excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)	962,783	2,096,708	5,495,748
Restricted stock units
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Restricted Stock Units Excluded from Computation of Earning Per Share Amount	758,792	387,791	0

Other_Comprehensive_IncomeLoss2

Other Comprehensive Income/Loss (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss components
Balance at the beginning of the period	($38,250)	($73,090)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	-27,701	34,840	2,571
Balance at the end of the period	-65,951	-38,250	-73,090
Net unrealized (loss) gain on securities available-for-sale
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss components
Balance at the beginning of the period	-4,366	7,451
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	9,052	-11,817
Balance at the end of the period	4,686	-4,366
Net actuarial loss on pension plans and other postretirement benefits
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss components
Balance at the beginning of the period	-30,600	-77,115
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	-36,876	46,515
Balance at the end of the period	-67,476	-30,600
Prior service cost on pension plans and other postretirement benefits
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss components
Balance at the beginning of the period	-3,284	-3,426
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	123	142
Balance at the end of the period	($3,161)	($3,284)

Other_Comprehensive_IncomeLoss3

Other Comprehensive Income/Loss (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale before tax amount:
Net unrealized holding gain (loss) on securities arising during the year	$14,134	($16,202)	($2,040)
Reclassification adjustment for gain (loss) on sales of securities included in net income	-141	-2,057	-8,477
Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale	13,993	-18,259	-10,517
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits before tax amount:
Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	-60,583	68,150	14,141
Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	913	3,610	5,447
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	-59,670	71,760	19,588
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits before tax amount:
Prior service cost adjustment arising during the year			-5,463
Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income			152
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	190	213	-5,311
Reclassification adjustment for loss on cash flow hedge included in net income, before tax amount			261
Total other comprehensive income, before tax amount	-45,487	53,714	4,021
Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale, tax benefit (expense):
Net unrealized holding gain (loss) on securities arising during the year	-4,991	5,717	720
Reclassification adjustment for gain (loss) included in net income	50	725	2,987
Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale	-4,941	6,442	3,707
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits, tax benefit (expense):
Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	23,116	-23,970	-4,998
Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	-322	-1,275	-1,920
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	22,794	-25,245	-6,918
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits, tax benefit (expense):
Prior service cost adjustment arising during the year			1,925
Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income			-54
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	-67	-71	1,871
Reclassification adjustment for loss on cash flow hedge included in net income, tax benefit (expense)			-110
Total other comprehensive income, tax benefit (expense)	17,786	-18,874	-1,450
Net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale net of tax:
Net unrealized holding gain (loss) on securities arising during the year	9,143	-10,485	-1,320
Reclassification adjustment for gain (loss) included in net income	-91	-1,332	-5,490
Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities available-for-sale	9,052	-11,817	-6,810
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits net of tax:
Net actuarial loss adjustment arising during the year	-37,467	44,180	9,143
Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss included in net income	591	2,335	3,527
Net actuarial loss adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	-36,876	46,515	12,670
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits net of tax:
Prior service cost adjustment arising during the year	0	0	-3,538
Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost included in net income	123	142	98
Prior service cost adjustment on pension plans and other postretirement benefits	123	142	-3,440
Reclassification adjustment for loss on cash flow hedge included in net income	0	0	151
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	($27,701)	$34,840	$2,571

Other_Comprehensive_IncomeLoss4

Other Comprehensive Income/Loss (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to the consolidated statements of income
Reclassification adjustment for gain (loss) on sales of securities	($141)	($2,057)	($8,477)
Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss	913	3,610	5,447
Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost			152
Income before income tax expense	122,195	104,342	80,971
Income tax effect	-26,279	-37,749	-27,880
Net income	95,916	66,593	53,091
Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to the consolidated statements of income
Income before income tax expense	-962	-1,766
Income tax effect	339	621
Net income	-623	-1,145
Gain on sales of securities | Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to the consolidated statements of income
Reclassification adjustment for gain (loss) on sales of securities	141	2,057
Compensation and benefits | Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to the consolidated statements of income
Reclassification adjustment for net actuarial loss	-913	-3,610
Reclassification adjustment for prior service cost	($190)	($213)

Benefit_Plans_Details

Benefit Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension benefits
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$230,361	$260,108
Service cost	0	0	2,025
Interest cost	10,450	9,549	10,992
Actuarial loss (gain)	48,633	-28,749
Benefits paid	-19,172	-10,547
Benefit obligation at end of year	270,272	230,361	260,108
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	189,367	160,683
Actual return on plan assets	11,264	33,583
Employer contribution	5,615	5,648
Benefits paid	-19,172	-10,547
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	187,074	189,367	160,683
Funded status at end of year	-83,198	-40,994
Other Postretirement Benefits
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	18,766	35,476
Service cost	1,241	1,578	1,061
Interest cost	930	1,279	1,378
Actuarial loss (gain)	8,371	-18,572
Benefits paid	-763	-995
Benefit obligation at end of year	28,545	18,766	35,476
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	0	0
Actual return on plan assets	0	0
Employer contribution	763	995
Benefits paid	-763	-995
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	0	0	0
Funded status at end of year	($28,545)	($18,766)

Benefit_Plans_Details_2

Benefit Plans (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension benefits
Benefit Plans
Net actuarial loss (gain)	$108,137	$57,327
Prior service cost	4,950	5,140
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	113,087	62,467
Other Postretirement Benefits
Benefit Plans
Net actuarial loss (gain)	771	-8,089
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss (income)	$771	($8,089)

Benefit_Plans_Details_3

Benefit Plans (Details 3)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Astoria Bank | Pension benefits
Benefit Plans
Discount rate (as a percent)	3.77%	4.66%
Astoria Bank | Excess and supplemental benefit plans
Benefit Plans
Discount rate (as a percent)	3.60%	4.39%
Astoria Bank | Directors' retirement plan
Benefit Plans
Discount rate (as a percent)	3.47%	4.23%
Astoria Bank | Retiree health care plan
Benefit Plans
Discount rate (as a percent)	3.89%	4.80%
Greater | Directors' retirement plan
Benefit Plans
Discount rate (as a percent)	3.12%	3.64%
LIB | Directors' retirement plan
Benefit Plans
Discount rate (as a percent)	0.59%	0.50%

Benefit_Plans_Details_4

Benefit Plans (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Pension benefits
Benefit Plans
Service cost	$0	$0	$2,025
Interest cost	10,450	9,549	10,992
Expected return on plan assets	-14,843	-12,754	-11,947
Recognized net actuarial loss (gain)	1,401	3,138	4,930
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)	190	213	177
Settlement		0	2,302
Net periodic (benefit) cost	-2,802	146	8,479
Other Postretirement Benefits
Benefit Plans
Service cost	1,241	1,578	1,061
Interest cost	930	1,279	1,378
Recognized net actuarial loss (gain)	-488	472	517
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)		0	-25
Net periodic (benefit) cost	$1,683	$3,329	$2,931

Benefit_Plans_Details_5

Benefit Plans (Details 5)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Astoria Bank | Pension benefits
Assumptions used to determine net periodic cost
Discount rate (as a percent)	4.66%	3.77%
Expected return on plan assets (as a percent)	8.00%	8.00%
Astoria Bank | Excess and supplemental benefit plans
Assumptions used to determine net periodic cost
Discount rate (as a percent)	4.39%	3.49%
Astoria Bank | Directors' retirement plan
Assumptions used to determine net periodic cost
Discount rate (as a percent)	4.23%	3.21%
Astoria Bank | Retiree health care plan
Assumptions used to determine net periodic cost
Discount rate (as a percent)	4.80%	3.98%
Greater | Directors' retirement plan
Assumptions used to determine net periodic cost
Discount rate (as a percent)	3.64%	2.77%
LIB | Directors' retirement plan
Assumptions used to determine net periodic cost
Discount rate (as a percent)	0.50%	0.63%

Benefit_Plans_Details_6

Benefit Plans (Details 6)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Health care cost trend rate assumed for the next year:
Pre-age 65 (as a percent)	6.70%	7.00%
Post-age 65 (as a percent)	9.00%	10.00%
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5.00%	5.00%
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	2021	2021

Benefit_Plans_Details_7

Benefit Plans (Details 7) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Effect on total service and interest cost components one percentage point increase	$418
Effect on the postretirement benefit obligation one percentage increase	5,301
Effect on total service and interest cost components one percentage point decrease	-328
Effect on the postretirement benefit obligation one percentage point decrease	($4,092)

Benefit_Plans_Details_8

Benefit Plans (Details 8) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension benefits
Benefit Plans
2015	$11,961
2016	15,932
2017	13,991
2018	13,143
2019	13,644
2020-2024	70,132
Other Postretirement Benefits
Benefit Plans
2015	973
2016	1,043
2017	1,094
2018	1,176
2019	1,226
2020-2024	$6,780

Benefit_Plans_Details_9

Benefit Plans (Details 9) (Pension benefits, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	$187,074	$189,367	$160,683
Astoria Bank | Recurring basis
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	187,074	189,367
Astoria Bank | Recurring basis | Level 1
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	12,408	12,691
Astoria Bank | Recurring basis | Level 2
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	162,808	170,377
Astoria Bank | Recurring basis | Level 3
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	11,858	6,299
Astoria Bank | Cash and cash equivalents | Recurring basis
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	4	4
Astoria Bank | Cash and cash equivalents | Recurring basis | Level 1
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	4	4
Astoria Bank | PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts | Recurring basis
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	162,808	170,377
Astoria Bank | PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts | Recurring basis | Level 2
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	162,808	170,377
Astoria Bank | Astoria Financial Corporation common stock | Recurring basis
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	12,404	12,687
Astoria Bank | Astoria Financial Corporation common stock | Recurring basis | Level 1
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	12,404	12,687
Astoria Bank | PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account | Recurring basis
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	11,858	6,299
Astoria Bank | PRIAC Guaranteed Deposit Account | Recurring basis | Level 3
Benefit Plans
Pension plan assets	$11,858	$6,299

Benefit_Plans_Details_10

Benefit Plans (Details 10) (Astoria Bank, Pension benefits, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Astoria Bank | Pension benefits
Changes in the fair value of Level 3 assets
Fair value at beginning of year	$6,299	$7,177
Total net gain, realized and unrealized, included in change in net assets	191	21
Purchases	23,925	9,000
Sales	-18,557	-9,899
Fair value at end of year	$11,858	$6,299

Benefit_Plans_Details_11

Benefit Plans (Details 11) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Benefit Plans
Net actuarial loss that will be recognized as components of net periodic cost in 2014	$3,000,000
Prior service cost that will be recognized as components of net periodic cost in 2014	190,000
Accumulated benefit obligation	270,300,000	230,400,000
Pension benefits
Benefit Plans
Employer contribution	5,615,000	5,648,000
Astoria Bank | Pension benefits
Benefit Plans
Employer contribution	$5,000,000
Astoria Bank | Pension benefits | Astoria Financial Corporation common stock | Maximum
Benefit Plans
Equity securities percentage in total plan assets	10.00%

Benefit_Plans_Details_12

Benefit Plans (Details 12) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Jan. 01, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Jan. 01, 2015
Incentive Savings Plan
Employee maximum contribution of pre-tax base salary, percentage		30.00%
Employee maximum contribution of pre-tax base salary limit		$17,500
Maximum percentage of the participating employees' contributions matched by the employer	50.00%
Maximum employer matching contribution as a percentage of participating employees' compensation	6.00%
Maximum Employer Contribution As A Percent of Employees Compensation	3.00%
Matching contributions		2,200,000	2,000,000
Employee vesting in employer contributions after period of time		1 year
Employee Stock Ownership Plan
ESOP loans outstanding principal balance				5,900,000
ESOP loans interest rate (as a percent)			6.00%
Shares allocated to participants			967,013
Shares allocated to participants to date			15,068,562	1,075,354
Cash contribution to participant accounts			155,000	513,000
Compensation expense related to ESOP			$11,200,000	$10,700,000
Subsequent event
Incentive Savings Plan
Maximum Employer Contribution As A Percent of Employees Compensation					4.50%
Incentive Savings Plan, Amended 2014, Scenario 1 [Member] | Subsequent event
Incentive Savings Plan
Maximum percentage of the participating employees' contributions matched by the employer					100.00%
Maximum employer matching contribution as a percentage of participating employees' compensation					3.00%
Incentive Savings Plan, Amended 2015, Scenario 2 [Member] | Subsequent event
Incentive Savings Plan
Maximum percentage of the participating employees' contributions matched by the employer					50.00%
Incentive Savings Plan, Amended 2015, Scenario 2 [Member] | Minimum | Subsequent event
Incentive Savings Plan
Maximum employer matching contribution as a percentage of participating employees' compensation					3.00%
Incentive Savings Plan, Amended 2015, Scenario 2 [Member] | Maximum | Subsequent event
Incentive Savings Plan
Maximum employer matching contribution as a percentage of participating employees' compensation					6.00%

Benefit_Plans_Details_13

Benefit Plans (Details 13) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Benefit Plans
Accumulated benefit obligation	$270,300,000	$230,400,000
Unfunded Retirement Plans
Benefit Plans
Accumulated Benefit Obligation, unfunded plans	15,100,000	13,100,000
Projected benefit obligation, unfunded plans	$15,100,000	$13,100,000

Benefit_Plans_Details_14

Benefit Plans (Details 14) (Astoria Bank, Pension benefits, USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Benefit Plans
Unrealized gain(loss)	$477,000	$313,000
Debt securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	50.00%
Liquidity funds
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	25.00%
Equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	80.00%
Equity securities | International equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	10.00%
Equity securities | Large cap equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	50.00%
Equity securities | Small cap equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	20.00%
Equity securities | Mid cap equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	20.00%
Astoria Financial Corporation common stock
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	15.00%
Recurring basis | PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts | International equity securities
Benefit Plans
Securities (as a percent)	9.00%	11.00%
Recurring basis | PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts | Large cap equity securities
Benefit Plans
Securities (as a percent)	41.00%	41.00%
Recurring basis | PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts | Small cap equity securities
Benefit Plans
Securities (as a percent)	7.00%	8.00%
Recurring basis | PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts | Mid cap equity securities
Benefit Plans
Securities (as a percent)	5.00%	5.00%
Recurring basis | PRIAC Pooled Separate Accounts | Debt securities
Benefit Plans
Securities (as a percent)	38.00%	35.00%
Investment in any one company | Equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	10.00%
Investment in any one industry | Equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	30.00%
Funds that mirror the S&P 500 | Equity securities
Benefit Plans
Maximum securities (as a percent)	50.00%

Benefit_Plans_Details_15

Benefit Plans (Details 15) (Level 3, Pension benefits, Astoria Bank)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Minimum
Benefit Plans
Gross guaranteed crediting rate	0.025	0.021
Composite market value factor	1.018	0.988
Maximum
Benefit Plans
Gross guaranteed crediting rate	0.04	0.0435
Composite market value factor	1.081	1.073

Stock_Incentive_Plans_Details

Stock Incentive Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	21-May-14	Sep. 30, 2014
Stock Incentive Plan
Options outstanding and exercisable, intrinsic value	$0
Weighted average remaining contractual term	7 months
Restricted common stock and restricted stock units
Stock Incentive Plan
Outstanding (in shares)	752,701	781,644
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	514,507
Granted (in dollars per share)	$12.58	$9.70	$9.82
Aggregate fair value on the vest date of restricted common stock awards, vested during the year	6,600,000	9,600,000	6,200,000
Stock based compensation expense, taxes	3,100,000	2,500,000	1,800,000
Stock based compensation expense, net of tax	5,600,000	4,500,000	3,300,000
Nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized	10,800,000
Nonvested awards, compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition	1 year 9 months 18 days
Pretax compensation cost related to non-vested performance based stock awards and units	1,800,000
Expense reversal			569,000
Stock Based Compensation Expense Taxes Reversed			$310,000
Performance-based restricted common stock awards or units | Officers | Share Vesting, Period 1
Stock Incentive Plan
Granted upon change in control	100.00%
Performance Based Restricted Stock
Stock Incentive Plan
Employee service share based compensation non vested performance based awards total compensation cost not yet recognized, shares or units	65,000
Performance based restricted stock unit
Stock Incentive Plan
Outstanding (in shares)	776,500	409,100
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	395,900
Granted (in dollars per share)	$12.14
Employee service share based compensation non vested performance based awards total compensation cost not yet recognized, shares or units	98,475
2014 Employee Stock Plan
Stock Incentive Plan
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, number of additional shares authorized				3,250,000
Number of shares available for grant	3,672,764
Common stock, capital shares reserved for future issuance				3,757,925
2005 Employee Stock Plan
Stock Incentive Plan
Number of shares available for grant				507,925	0
2005 Employee Stock Plan | Performance-based restricted common stock awards or units
Stock Incentive Plan
Outstanding (in shares)	382,600	393,900
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	395,900	432,300
2005 Employee Stock Plan | Performance-based restricted common stock awards or units | Officers
Stock Incentive Plan
Equity instruments other than options vested in period share of common stock to be paid	1
Directors Stock Plan, 2007 Plan
Stock Incentive Plan
Number of shares available for grant	67,135
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	32,506
Number of shares authorized	240,080
Directors Stock Plan, 2007 Plan | Restricted common stock and restricted stock units
Stock Incentive Plan
Award vesting period	3 years
All stock plans other than 2014 Employee stock plan, 2005 Employee stock plan and 2007 Directors stock plan | Employee Non Employee Director Stock Option
Stock Incentive Plan
Expiration period	10 years
Minimum
Stock Incentive Plan
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, award vesting rights, percentage	0.00%
Maximum
Stock Incentive Plan
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, award vesting rights, percentage	125.00%

Stock_Incentive_Plans_Details_

Stock Incentive Plans (Details 2)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Performance based restricted stock unit
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	395,900
Unvested at the end of the period (in shares)	776,500	409,100
Restricted common stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	514,507
Unvested at the end of the period (in shares)	752,701	781,644
Employee Stock Plan | Restricted common stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	482,001	494,420	155,000	663,530
Unvested at the end of the period (in shares)	341,861	154,040	51,500	144,802
Employee Stock Plan | Restricted common stock | Shares vesting in 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	156,137	152,040	51,500	79,802
Employee Stock Plan | Restricted common stock | Shares vesting in 2016
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	157,337	2,000		65,000
Employee Stock Plan | Restricted common stock | Shares vesting in 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted common stock granted (in shares)	28,387

Stock_Incentive_Plans_Details_1

Stock Incentive Plans (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Restricted common stock
Number of shares or units
Unvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)	781,644
Granted (in shares)	514,507
Vested (in shares)	-512,042
Forfeited (in shares)	-31,408
Unvested at the end of the period (in shares)	752,701	781,644
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$11.46
Granted (in dollars per share)	$12.58	$9.70	$9.82
Vested (in dollars per share)	($11.91)
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	($11.91)
Unvested at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$11.90	$11.46
Performance based restricted stock unit
Number of shares or units
Unvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)	409,100
Granted (in shares)	395,900
Forfeited (in shares)	-28,500
Unvested at the end of the period (in shares)	776,500
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$9.22
Granted (in dollars per share)	$12.14
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	($10.58)
Unvested at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$10.66
2005 Employee Stock Plan | Performance-based restricted common stock awards or units
Number of shares or units
Unvested at the beginning of the period (in shares)	393,900
Granted (in shares)	395,900	432,300
Unvested at the end of the period (in shares)	382,600	393,900

Stock_Incentive_Plans_Details_2

Stock Incentive Plans (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Number of Options
Number of options, outstanding at beginning of year	1,102,650
Expired (in shares)	-1,066,650
Number of options, outstanding and exercisable at end of year	36,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted average exercise price, outstanding at beginning of year	$26.68
Expired (in dollars per shares)	($26.62)
Weighted average exercise price, outstanding and exercisable at end of year	$28.58

Regulatory_Matters_Details

Regulatory Matters (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 effective on January 1, 2015
Regulatory Matters
Tier 1 leverage capital minimum capital requirement percentage	4.00%
Tier 1 leverage capital to be well capitalized percentage	5.00%
Tier 1 risk based capital minimum capital requirement percentage	6.00%
Tier 1 risk based capital to be well capitalized percentage	8.00%
Total risk based capital minimum capital requirement percentage	8.00%
Total risk based capital to be well capitalized percentage	10.00%
Minimum common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio	4.50%
Common equity Tier 1 risk based capital to be well capitalized percentage	6.50%
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 effective on January 1, 2015 | On January 1, 2016
Regulatory Matters
Required minimum conservation buffer percentage	0.63%
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 effective on January 1, 2015 | On January 1, 2017
Regulatory Matters
Required minimum conservation buffer percentage	1.25%
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 effective on January 1, 2015 | On January 1, 2018
Regulatory Matters
Required minimum conservation buffer percentage	1.88%
Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 effective on January 1, 2015 | Minimum capital ratios including conservation buffer, January 1, 2019
Regulatory Matters
Tier 1 risk based capital minimum capital requirement percentage	8.50%
Total risk based capital minimum capital requirement percentage	10.50%
Minimum common equity Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio	7.00%
Required minimum conservation buffer percentage	2.50%
Astoria Bank
Regulatory Matters
Tangible capital	$1,632,390	$1,543,764
Tangible capital percentage	10.62%	9.93%
Tangible capital minimum capital requirement	230,633	233,158
Tangible capital minimum capital requirement percentage	1.50%	1.50%
Tier 1 leverage capital	1,632,390	1,543,764
Tier 1 leverage capital percentage	10.62%	9.93%
Tier 1 leverage capital minimum capital requirement	615,022	621,755
Tier 1 leverage capital minimum capital requirement percentage	4.00%	4.00%
Tier 1 leverage capital to be well capitalized	768,777	777,194
Tier 1 leverage capital to be well capitalized percentage	5.00%	5.00%
Tier 1 risk based capital	1,632,390	1,543,764
Tier One Risk Based Capital to Risk Weighted Assets	17.55%	15.79%
Tier 1 risk based capital minimum capital requirement	372,118	391,083
Tier 1 risk based capital minimum capital requirement percentage	4.00%	4.00%
Tier 1 risk based capital to be well capitalized	558,177	586,625
Tier 1 risk based capital to be well capitalized percentage	6.00%	6.00%
Total risk based capital	1,744,905	1,666,637
Total risk based capital percentage	18.76%	17.05%
Total risk based capital minimum capital requirement	744,236	782,167
Total risk based capital minimum capital requirement percentage	8.00%	8.00%
Total risk based capital to be well capitalized	$930,295	$977,708
Total risk based capital to be well capitalized percentage	10.00%	10.00%

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	$384,359	$401,690
Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	384,359	401,690
Total residential mortgage-backed securities
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	287,659	310,534
Total residential mortgage-backed securities | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Percentage of debt securities comprising available-for-sale portfolio	75.00%	77.00%
Available-for-sale residential mortgage-backed securities portfolio which are GSE securities (as a percent)	98.00%	98.00%
GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	268,998	286,074
GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	268,998	286,074
Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	5,104	7,572
Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	5,104	7,572
GSE pass-through certificates
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	13,557	16,888
GSE pass-through certificates | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	13,557	16,888
Obligations of GSEs
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	96,698	91,153
Obligations of GSEs | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	96,698	91,153
Percentage of debt securities comprising available-for-sale portfolio	25.00%	23.00%
Fannie Mae stock
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	2	3
Fannie Mae stock | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	2	3
Level 1 | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	2	3
Level 1 | Fannie Mae stock | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	2	3
Level 2 | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	384,357	401,687
Level 2 | GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	268,998	286,074
Level 2 | Non-GSE issuance REMICs and CMOs | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	5,104	7,572
Level 2 | GSE pass-through certificates | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	13,557	16,888
Level 2 | Obligations of GSEs | Recurring basis
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Total available-for-sale securities	$96,698	$91,153

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail1

Fair Value Measurements (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Carrying value of assets
Impaired loans	$248,436	$384,522
MSR, net	11,401	12,800
REO, net	35,723	42,636
Carrying Value
Carrying value of assets
Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net	7,640	7,375
MSR, net	11,401	12,800
Level 3
Carrying value of assets
Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net	7,955	7,436
MSR, net	11,406	12,804
Measured on a non-recurring basis | Level 3 | Carrying Value
Carrying value of assets
Impaired loans	140,663	271,408
MSR, net	11,401	12,800
REO, net	19,375	27,101
Total	171,592	312,100
Measured on a non-recurring basis | Level 3 | Carrying Value | Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net
Carrying value of assets
Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net	$153	$791

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail2

Fair Value Measurements (Details 3) (Measured on a non-recurring basis, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Losses recognized on assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis	$7,965	$26,300	$45,152
Non-performing loans held-for-sale, net
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Losses recognized on assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis		520	1,066
Impaired loans
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Losses recognized on assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis	6,311	21,992	40,018
MSR, net
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Losses recognized on assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis			931
REO, net
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Losses recognized on assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis	$1,654	$3,788	$3,137

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail3

Fair Value Measurements (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value
Impaired loans comprising residential mortgage loans (as a percent)	73.00%	81.00%
Impaired loans comprising multi-family and commercial real estate loans (as a percent)	25.00%	19.00%
Percentage of Impaired Loans Comprising Home Equity Lines of Credit	2.00%
Impaired loans for which fair value adjustment is recognized comprising residential mortgage loans (as a percent)	69.00%	83.00%
Impaired loans for which fair value adjustment is recognized comprising multi-family and commercial real estate loans (as a percent)	30.00%	17.00%
Impaired loans for which fair value adjustment is recognized comprising home equity loans (as a percent)	1.00%
Period after which loans are individually evaluated for impairment	180 days
Real estate owned, net	35,723	42,636
Weighted average
Valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value
Assumption to estimate fair value of servicing asset, weighted average discount rate (as a percent)	9.48%	9.45%
Assumption to estimate fair value of servicing asset, weighted average constant prepayment rate (as a percent)	12.35%	10.52%
Assumption to estimate fair value of servicing asset, weighted average life	5 years 8 months 12 days	6 years 3 months 18 days
Residential mortgage loans
Valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value
Period after which loans are individually evaluated for impairment	180 days
Period past due when loan servicer performs property inspections	45 days
Real estate owned, net	33,700

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail4

Fair Value Measurements (Details 5) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financial Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity	$2,133,804	$1,849,526
FHLB-NY stock	140,754	152,207
MSR, net	11,401	12,800
Level 2 Fair Value
Financial Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity	2,131,371	1,811,122
FHLB-NY stock	140,754	152,207
Financial Liabilities:
Deposits	9,534,918	9,922,631
Borrowings, net	4,395,604	4,376,336
Level 3 Fair Value
Financial Assets:
Loans held-for-sale, net	7,955	7,436
Loans receivable, net	11,967,608	12,480,533
MSR, net	11,406	12,804
Carrying Value
Financial Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity	2,133,804	1,849,526
FHLB-NY stock	140,754	152,207
Loans held-for-sale, net	7,640	7,375
Loans receivable, net	11,845,848	12,303,066
MSR, net	11,401	12,800
Financial Liabilities:
Deposits	9,504,909	9,855,310
Borrowings, net	4,187,691	4,137,161
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement
Financial Assets:
Securities held-to-maturity	2,131,371	1,811,122
FHLB-NY stock	140,754	152,207
Loans held-for-sale, net	7,955	7,436
Loans receivable, net	11,967,608	12,480,533
MSR, net	11,406	12,804
Financial Liabilities:
Deposits	9,534,918	9,922,631
Borrowings, net	$4,395,604	$4,376,336

Condensed_Parent_Company_Only_2

Condensed Parent Company Only Financial Statements (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS:
Cash	$143,185	$121,950
Other assets	173,138	143,490
Total assets	15,640,021	15,793,722
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
Other liabilities	251,951	172,280
Stockholders’ equity	1,580,070	1,519,513	1,293,989	1,251,198
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	15,640,021	15,793,722
Astoria Financial Corporation
ASSETS:
Cash	75,199	63,418
Other assets	711	103
Total assets	1,832,122	1,770,718
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
Other borrowings, net	248,691	248,161
Other liabilities	3,361	3,044
Stockholders’ equity	1,580,070	1,519,513
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	1,832,122	1,770,718
Astoria Financial Corporation | Astoria Bank
ASSETS:
Investment in subsidiary	1,755,078	1,705,964
Astoria Financial Corporation | AF Insurance Agency, Inc
ASSETS:
Investment in subsidiary	$1,134	$1,233

Condensed_Parent_Company_Only_3

Condensed Parent Company Only Financial Statements (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Interest income:
Repurchase agreements	$321	$263	$338
Total interest income	492,350	518,430	600,509
Interest expense on borrowings	98,707	113,911	154,219
Net interest expense	-342,288	-341,902	-348,269
Non-interest expense:
Compensation and benefits	138,177	133,689	139,140
Extinguishment of debt	0	4,266	1,212
Other	35,656	35,277	38,620
Total non-interest expense	284,410	287,531	300,133
Income before income tax expense	122,195	104,342	80,971
Income tax benefit	-26,279	-37,749	-27,880
Net income	95,916	66,593	53,091
Preferred stock dividends	8,775	7,214	0
Net income available to common shareholders	87,141	59,379	53,091
Astoria Financial Corporation
Interest income:
Repurchase agreements			18
ESOP loans receivable		344	728
Total interest income		344	746
Interest expense on borrowings	13,031	17,398	29,689
Net interest expense	13,031	17,054	28,943
Cash dividends from subsidiaries	40,620	45,150	42,000
Non-interest expense:
Compensation and benefits	2,925	3,261	3,735
Extinguishment of debt		4,266	1,212
Other	3,262	3,148	2,878
Total non-interest expense	6,187	10,675	7,825
Income before income tax expense	21,402	17,421	5,232
Income tax benefit	6,662	9,644	12,844
Income before equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	28,064	27,065	18,076
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	67,852	39,528	35,015
Net income	95,916	66,593	53,091
Preferred stock dividends	8,775	7,214
Net income available to common shareholders	$87,141	$59,379	$53,091

Condensed_Parent_Company_Only_4

Condensed Parent Company Only Financial Statements (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$95,916	$66,593	$53,091
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Amortization of deferred costs	9,021	15,794	16,762
Net cash provided by operating activities	134,076	232,664	187,413
Cash flows from investing activities:
Redemption of Astoria Capital Trust I common securities	0	3,866	0
Net cash provided by investing activities	197,948	488,662	377,632
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from borrowings with original terms greater than three months	0	0	950,000
Repayments of borrowings with original terms greater than three months	-150,000	-553,866	-1,144,000
Cash payments for debt issuance costs	0	0	-2,653
Cash payments for preferred stock issuance costs	0	-5,204	0
Cash dividends paid to stockholders	-24,643	-20,688	-24,104
Net cash used in financing activities	-310,789	-720,849	-576,276
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	21,235	477	-11,231
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	121,950	121,473	132,704
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	143,185	121,950	121,473
Supplemental disclosure:
Interest paid	150,026	180,871	258,503
Astoria Financial Corporation
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	95,916	66,593	53,091
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries	-67,852	-39,528	-35,015
Amortization of deferred costs	531	531	837
(Increase) decrease in other assets, net of other liabilities and amounts due to subsidiaries	-484	-998	846
Net cash provided by operating activities	28,111	26,598	19,759
Cash flows from investing activities:
Principal payments on ESOP loans receivable		5,908	6,235
Redemption of Astoria Capital Trust I common securities		3,866
Net cash provided by investing activities		9,774	6,235
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from borrowings with original terms greater than three months			250,000
Repayments of borrowings with original terms greater than three months		-128,866	-250,000
Cash payments for debt issuance costs			-2,653
Proceeds from issuance of common and preferred stock	8,121	135,000
Cash payments for preferred stock issuance costs		-5,204
Cash dividends paid to stockholders	-24,643	-20,688	-24,104
Net tax benefit excess (shortfall) from stock-based compensation	192	-800	-4,123
Net cash used in financing activities	-16,330	-20,558	-30,880
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	11,781	15,814	-4,886
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	63,418	47,604	52,490
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	75,199	63,418	47,604
Supplemental disclosure:
Interest paid	$12,500	$18,898	$31,535