| Cover | Apr. 30, 2024 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 30, 2024 |
| Entity Registrant Name | THE MACERICH COMPANY |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD |
| Entity File Number | 1-12504 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 95-4448705 |
| Entity Address, Street | 401 Wilshire Boulevard |
| Entity Address, Suite | Suite 700 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Santa Monica |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 90401 |
| City Area Code | 310 |
| Local Phone Number | 394-6000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of each class | Common stock of The Macerich Company, $0.01 par value per share |
| Trading symbol(s) | MAC |
| Name of each exchange on which registered | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000912242 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
