XML 47 R31.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.8.0.1

Significant Transactions During the Nine Months Ended 2017 and Subsequent Events (Details) | 1 Months Ended | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended |
--- | --- | --- | --- | ---
Oct. 31, 2017 USD ($) | Oct. 30, 2017 USD ($) $ / shares shares | Aug. 31, 2017 USD ($) apartment | Jul. 31, 2017 USD ($) | May 31, 2017 USD ($) | Apr. 30, 2017 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2017 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2017 USD ($) | Mar. 31, 2017 USD ($) apartment | Mar. 31, 2017 USD ($) unit | Jan. 31, 2017 USD ($) apartment | Sep. 30, 2017 USD ($) $ / shares | Sep. 30, 2016 USD ($) | Sep. 30, 2017 USD ($) investment $ / shares shares | Sep. 30, 2016 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Payments to acquire preferred equity investments |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 200,028,000 | $ 124,054,000 |
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 0 | $ 0 | 88,641,000 | 0 |
Co-investments |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1,124,577,000 |  | 1,124,577,000 |  | $ 1,161,275,000
Land and land improvements |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 2,719,064,000 |  | 2,719,064,000 |  | 2,559,743,000
Buildings and improvements |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 10,585,742,000 |  | 10,585,742,000 |  | 10,116,563,000
Prepaid expenses and other assets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 51,453,000 |  | 51,453,000 |  | 48,450,000
Commitment to fund preferred equity investment in a multifamily development project located in Seattle, WA |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 89,300,000 |  |
Number of preferred equity investments in development with commitments to fund | investment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 5 |  |
Preferred equity investment, funded amount |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 38,000,000 |  | $ 38,000,000 |  |
Proceeds from partial redemption of preferred equity investment in a joint venture |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 112,572,000 | 34,564,000 |
Gain on early redemption of preferred equity investment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 10,058,000 | 13,046,000 |
Proceeds from full redemption of preferred equity investment class |  |  | $ 11,700,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Co-investments |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 1,088,332,000 |  | $ 1,088,332,000 |  | 1,161,275,000
Repaid amount of private placement |  |  |  | $ 40,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Private placement repurchase, coupon rate |  |  |  | 4.50% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Common stock issued under equity distribution program (in shares) | shares |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 311,873 |  |
Common stock issued under equity distribution program average price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 260.30 |  | $ 260.30 |  |
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 80,377,000 | $ (382,000) |
Subsequent Event [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Common stock issued under equity distribution program (in shares) | shares |  | 33,571 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Common stock issued under equity distribution program average price (in dollars per share) | $ / shares |  | $ 261.19 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock |  | $ 8,700,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Unsecured Notes at 5.500% [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Repurchased face amount of debt |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 300,000,000 | $ 300,000,000 | $ 300,000,000 | $ 300,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt, stated interest rate |  |  |  |  |  |  | 5.50% | 5.50% | 5.50% | 5.50% |  |  |  |  |  |
Senior Notes [Member] | Senior Unsecured Notes At 3.625% [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt, stated interest rate |  |  |  |  |  | 3.625% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt, face amount |  |  |  |  |  | $ 350,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Debt, term (in years) |  |  |  |  |  | 10 years |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Minimum [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred returns rate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 9.50% |  |
Maximum [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred returns rate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 11.00% |  |
Secured Note Receivable, 3.5% Interest Rate, Due December 16, 2017 [Member] | Wesco V Property [Member] | Affiliated Entity [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Notes and other receivables (includes related party receivables of $65.6 million and $11.3 million as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively) |  |  | $ 55,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 55,000,000 |  | $ 55,000,000 |  | 0
Stated interest rate |  |  | 3.50% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Limited Liability Company With Development Projects In The Jefferson At Stadium Park Apartments [Member] | Notes and Other Receivables from Affiliates [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Co-investments |  |  |  |  | $ 13,200,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred equity investment, dividend rate, first 30 months |  |  |  |  | 10.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Membership Interest In Palm Valley [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Equity method investment, ownership percentage acquired |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 50.00% |  |  |  |  |
Payments to acquire preferred equity investments |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 183,000,000 |  |  |  |  |
Mortgage encumbrance |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 220,000,000
Number of units acquired | apartment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 1,098 |  |  |  |  |
Gain on remeasurement of co-investment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 88,600,000 |  |  |  |  |
Weighted Average Essex Ownership Percentage |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 50.00% |  |
Co-investments |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 0 |  | $ 0 |  | $ 68,396,000
Membership Interest In Sage At Cupertino [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Equity method investment, ownership percentage acquired |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 40.50% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Mortgage encumbrance |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 52,000,000 | $ 52,000,000 | $ 52,000,000 | $ 52,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of units acquired |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 230 | 230 |  |  |  |  |  |
Co-investments |  |  |  |  |  |  | 15,300,000 | $ 15,300,000 | $ 15,300,000 | $ 15,300,000 |  |  |  |  |  |
Contract price |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 90,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Membership Interest In Palm Valley And Sage At Cupertino [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Land and land improvements |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 169,500,000 |  | 169,500,000 |  |
Buildings and improvements |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 365,700,000 |  | 365,700,000 |  |
Prepaid expenses and other assets |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 3,200,000 |  | 3,200,000 |  |
Eighth And Republican Avenue Property [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Payments to acquire preferred equity investments |  |  | $ 101,300,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of units acquired | apartment |  |  | 211 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Wesco V, San Jose Apartment Community [Member] | Wesco V Property [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of units acquired | apartment |  |  | 213 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Consideration transferred in asset acquisition |  |  | $ 133,500,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Mortgage debt assumed in asset acquisition |  |  | $ 57,900,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Mortgage debt assumed in asset acquisition, effective interest rate |  |  | 3.40% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Jefferson at Hollywood [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of units sold | apartment |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | 270 |  |  |  |  |
Sales of real estate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 132,500,000 |  |  |  |  |
Gain on sale of real estate |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 26,200,000 |  |  |  |  |
Madrid In Mission Viejo [Member] | Wesco I [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Number of units sold | apartment |  |  | 230 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Sales of real estate |  |  | $ 83,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Gain on sale of real estate |  |  | 10,100,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Repayments of loan on property |  |  | 30,100,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Wesco I [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Weighted Average Essex Ownership Percentage | 58.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Expected promote income | $ 38,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred Equity Investment in a Joint Venture that Holds a Property in Seattle, Washington [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Proceeds from partial redemption of preferred equity investment in a joint venture |  |  |  |  |  | $ 12,600,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Reduction in preferred equity investment |  |  |  |  |  | 12,400,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Gain on early redemption of preferred equity investment |  |  |  |  |  | $ 300,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred Equity Investment In Joint Venture That Holds A Property In San Jose, CA [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Proceeds from partial redemption of preferred equity investment |  |  | $ 6,900,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred equity investment in joint venture |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | $ 13,400,000 |  | $ 13,400,000 |  |
Wesco V Property [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Weighted Average Essex Ownership Percentage |  |  | 50.00% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Co-investments |  |  | $ 150,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred Equity Investment In Multifamily Development Project In Los Angeles, CA [Member] | Subsequent Event [Member] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Other Commitments [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Commitment to fund preferred equity investment in a multifamily development project located in Seattle, WA | $ 40,000,000 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Preferred returns rate | 11.30% |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |

X
- Definition Asset Acquisition, Consideration Transferred + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_AssetAcquisitionConsiderationTransferred
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Asset Acquisition, Liabilities Assumed + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_AssetAcquisitionLiabilitiesAssumed
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Asset Acquisition, Liabilities Assumed, Effective Interest Rate + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_AssetAcquisitionLiabilitiesAssumedEffectiveInterestRate
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Equity Method Investment, Commit To Fund, Number Of Investments + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_EquityMethodInvestmentCommitToFundNumberOfInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Equity Method Investment, Commitment To Fund, Amount + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_EquityMethodInvestmentCommitmentToFundAmount
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Equity Method Investment, Commitment To Fund, Funded Amount + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_EquityMethodInvestmentCommitmentToFundFundedAmount
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Equity Method Investment, Expected Promote Income + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_EquityMethodInvestmentExpectedPromoteIncome
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Acquired + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentageAcquired
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Equity Method Investments, Contract Price + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_EquityMethodInvestmentsContractPrice
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Equity Method Investments, Preferred Returns Rate + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_EquityMethodInvestmentsPreferredReturnsRate
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Refers to unrealized gain on revaluation of equity method investment. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_GainOnRemeasurementOfCoInvestment
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Increase (Decrease) In Equity Method Investments + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_IncreaseDecreaseInEquityMethodInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Investments In (Distributions In Excess Of Investments In) And Advance To Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, And Joint Ventures + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_InvestmentsInDistributionsInExcessOfInvestmentsInAndAdvanceToAffiliatesSubsidiariesAssociatesAndJointVentures
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition This element represents a description of the nature of common ownership or management control relationships with other entities, regardless of there being transactions between the entities, when the existence of that control could result in operating results or financial position of the reporting entity significantly different from that which would have been obtained if the entities' were autonomous. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_LimitedPartnershipInterestInPartnershipInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Notes Receivable, Maximum Borrowing Capacity + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_NotesReceivableMaximumBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Notes Receivable, Related Party, Interest Rate + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_NotesReceivableRelatedPartyInterestRate
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Notes Receivable, Return Rate, Percentage, Prior To Construction Completion + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_NotesReceivableReturnRatePercentagePriorToConstructionCompletion
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Number of units acquired. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_NumberOfUnitsAcquired
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The number of units sold by the entity during the period. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_NumberOfUnitsSold
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Proceeds From Full Redemption Of Preferred Equity Investment + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_ProceedsFromFullRedemptionOfPreferredEquityInvestment
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Proceeds From Partial Redemption Of Preferred Equity Investment + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_ProceedsFromPartialRedemptionOfPreferredEquityInvestment
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Repurchase Of Private Placement, Coupon Rate + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | ess_RepurchaseOfPrivatePlacementCouponRate
Namespace Prefix: | ess_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Face (par) amount of debt instrument at time of issuance. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64930739&loc=d3e28878-108400 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=64930785&loc=d3e28551-108399 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Face (par) amount of the original debt instrument that was repurchased. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRepurchasedFaceAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Period of time between issuance and maturity of debt instrument, in PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTerm
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:durationItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of gain (loss) on sale or disposal of an equity method investment. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentRealizedGainLossOnDisposal
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee. This is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses recognized. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 323 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66022249&loc=d3e33749-111570 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.12) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestments
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The difference between the carrying value and the sale price of real estate or properties that were intended to be sold or held for capital appreciation or rental income. This element refers to the gain (loss) included in earnings and not to the cash proceeds of the sale. This element is a noncash adjustment to net income when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98514028&loc=d3e3602-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfProperties
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Aggregate of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of investments in building and building improvements. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03.1(d)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InvestmentBuildingAndBuildingImprovements
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Total investments in (A) an entity in which the entity has significant influence, but does not have control, (B) subsidiaries that are not required to be consolidated and are accounted for using the equity and or cost method, and (C) an entity in which the reporting entity shares control of the entity with another party or group. Includes long-term advances receivable from a party that is affiliated with the reporting entity by means of direct or indirect ownership. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.12) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InvestmentsInAffiliatesSubsidiariesAssociatesAndJointVentures
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount before accumulated deprecation and depletion of real estate held for productive use and additions or improvements to real estate held for productive use, examples include, but are not limited to, walkways, driveways, fences, and parking lots. Excludes land held for sale. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 4 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=82887183&loc=d3e6812-107765 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LandAndLandImprovements
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition For an unclassified balance sheet, amounts due from parties associated with the reporting entity as evidenced by a written promise to pay. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(k)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26873400&loc=d3e23780-122690 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03.3) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 850 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6457730&loc=d3e39549-107864 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_NotesReceivableRelatedParties
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash outflow associated with the repurchase of amount received from entity's raising of capital via private rather than public placement. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98514028&loc=d3e3291-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfPrivatePlacement
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash outflow from the acquisition of a piece of land, anything permanently fixed to it, including buildings, structures on it and so forth; includes real estate intended to generate income for the owner; excludes real estate acquired for use by the owner. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 13 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98514028&loc=d3e3213-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireRealEstate
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of asset related to consideration paid in advance for costs that provide economic benefits in future periods, and amount of other assets. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of distribution received from equity method investee for return of investment, classified as investing activities. Excludes distribution for return on investment, classified as operating activities. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 21D -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98514028&loc=SL94080555-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ProceedsFromEquityMethodInvestmentDividendsOrDistributionsReturnOfCapital
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 14 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98514028&loc=d3e3255-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of lien or mortgage outstanding on real estate investment properties for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 970 -SubTopic 360 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.12-28) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6590653&loc=d3e638233-123024 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 205 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-04.(c) Schedule III) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27047687&loc=d3e5864-122674 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The cash outflow to repay long-term debt that is wholly or partially secured by collateral. Excludes repayments of tax exempt secured debt. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=98514028&loc=d3e3291-108585 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Revenue from the sale of commercial, industrial, or residential property during the period. This element is more likely than not relevant to an entity for which real estate operations are a principal activity. If real estate operations are not a principal activity, the reporting entity would likely use a gain (loss) on sale of property, plant, or equipment type element. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 225 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.1(e)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=63488584&loc=d3e20235-122688 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_SalesOfRealEstate
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Per share or per unit amount of equity securities issued. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_SharesIssuedPricePerShare
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:perShareItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Number of new stock issued during the period. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(29)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=84159872&loc=d3e21463-112644 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02(28)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 505 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.3-04) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=27012166&loc=d3e187085-122770 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:sharesItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis=us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=ess_SeniorUnsecuredNotesat5.500Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis=ess_SeniorUnsecuredNotesAt3.625Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_RangeAxis=us-gaap_MinimumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_RangeAxis=us-gaap_MaximumMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis=ess_SecuredNoteReceivable3.5InterestRateDueDecember162017Member
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CounterpartyNameAxis=ess_WescoVPropertyMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis=us-gaap_AffiliatedEntityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis=ess_LimitedLiabilityCompanyWithDevelopmentProjectsInTheJeffersonAtStadiumParkApartmentsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_InvestmentTypeAxis=us-gaap_NotesReceivableMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_MembershipInterestInPalmValleyMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_MembershipInterestInSageAtCupertinoMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_MembershipInterestInPalmValleyAndSageAtCupertinoMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_EighthAndRepublicanAvenuePropertyMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_WescoVSanJoseApartmentCommunityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | dei_LegalEntityAxis=ess_WescoVPropertyMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_JeffersonatHollywoodMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_MadridInMissionViejoMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | dei_LegalEntityAxis=ess_WescoIMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_WescoIMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_PreferredEquityInvestmentInAJointVentureThatHoldsAPropertyInSeattleWashingtonMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_PreferredEquityInvestmentInJointVentureThatHoldsAPropertyInSanJoseCAMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_WescoVPropertyMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis=ess_PreferredEquityInvestmentInMultifamilyDevelopmentProjectInLosAngelesCAMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |