| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 05, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | GEO GROUP INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000923796 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 5, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | FL |
| Entity File Number | 1-14260 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 65-0043078 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4955 Technology Way |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Boca Raton |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 33431 |
| City Area Code | (561) |
| Local Phone Number | 893-0101 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | GEO |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
