| Document and Entity Information | Oct. 30, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | TRACTOR SUPPLY CO /DE/ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000916365 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-23314 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-3139732 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 5401 Virginia Way |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Brentwood |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TN |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 37027 |
| City Area Code | (615) |
| Local Phone Number | 440-4000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.008 par value |
| Trading Symbol | TSCO |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
