Operating Lease Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Weighted average remaining life, vested Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Prepaid income tax Prepaid Taxes Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Payments to acquire noncontrolling interest Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Accrued dividend RSU Accrued Dividend RSU Accrued dividends payable upon the vesting of restricted stock units. Total Long-term debt obligations, including the current portion Long-Term Debt and Lease Obligation, Including Current Maturities Maturing on August 27, 2023 Maturing on August 27, 2023 [Member] Maturing on August 27, 2023 3.950% senior notes 3.950% Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] Three Point Nine Five Zero Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] Cover page. Cover [Abstract] Thereafter Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, after Year Five NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Schedule of Maturities of Operating Lease Liabilities Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Maturity [Table Text Block] Paid dividend RSU Paid Dividend RSU Amount of distributions payable paid upon the vesting of restricted stock units during the period. Percentage of interests acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Income Tax Jurisdiction [Domain] Income Tax Jurisdiction [Domain] Litigation Costs Legal Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Nondeductible interest Deferred Tax Asset, Nondeductible Expense, Interest, Amount Deferred Tax Asset, Nondeductible Expense, Interest, Amount 3.125% senior notes 3.125% Notes 3.125% Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member] Three Point One Two Five Percent, Senior Notes [Member] Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest LONG-TERM OBLIGATIONS Long-term obligations Long-Term Debt and Lease Obligation 2.950% senior notes 2.950% Notes 2.950% Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] Two Point Nine Five Percent Senior Notes Due January 2025 [Member] Non-NEOs Non-NEOs [Member] 0.600% senior notes 0.600% Senior Notes Due 2024 [Member] 0.600% Senior Notes Due 2024 Distribution per share, common stock (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared 2022 PSUs 2022 PSUs [Member] 2022 PSUs Balance as of January 1, Balance as of December 31, Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Common stock distributions declared Dividends, Cash Distributions to noncontrolling interest Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] CDPQ Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec [Member] Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec 5.000% Senior Notes Due 2029 And 5.400% Senior Notes Due 2034 5.000% Senior Notes Due 2029 And 5.400% Senior Notes Due 2034 [Member] 5.000% Senior Notes Due 2029 And 5.400% Senior Notes Due 2034 Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] 2026 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received, Year Two Payments for perpetual land easements Payments For Perpetual Land Easements Payments For Perpetual Land Easements Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] 2029 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received, Year Five 4.400% senior notes 4.400% Notes 4.400% Senior Notes Due 2026 [Member] Four point four zero percent senior notes [Member] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Earnings Per Common Share-Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted [Flag] NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Cash received from exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Land Land [Member] Award Timing Disclosures [Line Items] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Schedule of Changes in Allowances Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Table Text Block] American Tower Trust I American Tower Trust I [Member] American Tower Trust I Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Current portion of operating lease liability Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Lease Liability, Current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Lease Liability, Current Accrued rent Accrued Rent, Current Property and equipment Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, before Accumulated Amortization Accrued interest Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Uganda UGANDA Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Table] Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Table] $88.38 - $113.60 Range Four [Member] Range Four [Member] Not proceeds from sale of debt securities Proceeds From Sale Of Debt Securities Proceeds From Sale Of Debt Securities 5.400% senior notes 5.400% senior notes, Due 2035 [Member] 5.400% senior notes, Due 2035 CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] 2035 to 2039 Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years Eleven Through Fifteen Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years Eleven Through Fifteen Change in Reportable Segments Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards 1.950% senior notes 1.950% Notes 1.950% Senior Notes Due 2026 [Member] One Point Nine Five Zero Percent Senior Notes [Member] Price per share (in INR per share) Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Finance Lease, Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] Finance Lease, Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] United States UNITED STATES Debt covenant, threshold for majority of holders in event of default Debt Instrument, Covenant, Threshold For Majority Of Holders In Event Of Default Debt Instrument, Covenant, Threshold For Majority Of Holders In Event Of Default Dilutive securities (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted, Adjustment Cash and cash equivalents included in assets of discontinued operations Cash and cash equivalents Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents NOTES RECEIVABLE AND OTHER NON-CURRENT ASSETS Notes receivable and other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Leases [Abstract] Leases [Abstract] Gross Carrying Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Tower and network location intangible assets Tower And Network Locations Tower And Network Locations [Member] Tower And Network Locations [Member] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] ATC Australia and ATC New Zealand ATC Australia And ATC New Zealand [Member] ATC Australia And ATC New Zealand Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] VIL OCDs, face value Debt Securities, Face Value Debt Securities, Face Value Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Amounts payable for acquisitions Acquisition Related Payables, Current Acquisition Related Payables, Current Secured Debt Secured Debt [Member] Decrease to accretion expense Accretion expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Prepaid assets Prepaid Expense, Current Loss on sale Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) On Sale, Net of Tax Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) On Sale, Net of Tax Deferred rent asset Straight Line Rent Award Timing Method Award Timing Method [Text Block] Trading Arrangements, by Individual Trading Arrangements, by Individual [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding 1.500% senior notes 1.500% Notes 1.500% Senior Notes Due 2028 [Member] 1.500% Senior Notes Due 2028 Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current [Abstract] Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current [Abstract] Insider Trading Policies and Procedures [Line Items] Proceeds from the sale of ATC TIPL Proceeds from the sale of ATC TIPL Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Significant Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Depreciation, amortization and accretion Depreciation, Amortization And Accretion, Including Discontinued Operations Depreciation, Amortization And Accretion, Including Discontinued Operations Other Expenses Table [Line Items] Other Expenses Table [Line Items] Other Expenses Table [Line Items] Unearned revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deferred Revenue, Current Adjustment to Compensation, Amount Adjustment to Compensation Amount Compensation Amount Outstanding Recovery Compensation Amount Reclassification of cumulative translation adjustments associated with the sale of ATC TIPL Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Net of Tax Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Aggregate Change in Present Value of Accumulated Benefit for All Pension Plans Reported in Summary Compensation Table Aggregate Change in Present Value of Accumulated Benefit for All Pension Plans Reported in Summary Compensation Table [Member] Entity Small Business Entity Small Business ACCRUED EXPENSES Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] Company Selected Measure Amount Company Selected Measure Amount Capital loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards Assets held and used, original carrying value Assets Held And Used Long Lived Fair Value Disclosure Assets held and used long-lived fair value, carrying value after impairment Tabular List, Table Tabular List [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award [Line Items] Write-offs, recoveries and other SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deduction Contributions from noncontrolling interest holders Contributions from noncontrolling interest holders Contributions From Noncontrolling Interest Holders Contributions From Noncontrolling Interest Holders Operating lease liability Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Lease, Liability Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Lease, Liability RSUs and Stock Options RSUs And Stock Options [Member] RSUs And Stock Options Accrued expenses Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current Shares excluded from dilutive effect (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Adjustment to reflect REIT status Tax Adjustment Related To REIT Tax adjustment related to REIT Less amounts representing interest Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Schedule of Changes in Noncontrolling Interests Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table Text Block] 2021 Term Loan 2021 Term Loan 2021 Term Loan [Member] Term Loan 2021 [Member] Towers Towers [Member] Towers [Member] Asset Acquisition [Axis] Asset Acquisition [Axis] 4.100% Senior Notes, Due 2034 4.100% Senior Notes 4.100% Senior Notes, Due 2034 [Member] 4.100% Senior Notes, Due 2034 Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] NON-CURRENT ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS Total non-current assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Noncurrent GOODWILL Goodwill, beginning balance Goodwill, ending balance Goodwill Tax refunds Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds Stock repurchase program, authorized amount Share Repurchase Program, Authorized, Amount Total cash obligations Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Gross Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Gross VIL OCDs Debt securities Debt Securities 2021 Multicurrency Credit Facility 2021 Multicurrency Credit Facility [Member] 2021 Multicurrency Credit Facility Decrease in income tax penalties and interest expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease In Income Tax Penalties And Interest Expense Resulting From Expiration Of Applicable Statute Of Limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease In Income Tax Penalties And Interest Expense Resulting From Expiration Of Applicable Statute Of Limitations Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Employee Stock Option Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member] Depreciation expense Depreciation 2025 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year One Deferred financing costs and other financing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Other expense Other Expenses Right-of-use asset and Operating lease liability, net Increase (Decrease) In Right-Of-Use Asset And Operating Lease Liability Increase (Decrease) In Right-Of-Use Asset And Operating Lease Liability Antidilutive Security, Excluded EPS Calculation [Table] Antidilutive Security, Excluded EPS Calculation [Table] Comprehensive income attributable to American Tower Corporation stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Accrued income tax payable Accrued Income Taxes, Current Weighted-average incremental borrowing rate Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Lease Agreements Lease Agreements [Member] Lease incentives Incentive to Lessee Repayments of lines of credit Repayments of Lines of Credit 2025 Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year One Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Schedule of Options Outstanding Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Effect of foreign currency translation Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Series 2018-1A Securities Commercial Mortgage Pass Through Certificates Series 2018 [Member] Commercial Mortgage Pass Through Certificates Series 2018 [Member] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Mexico Fiber and ATC Poland Mexico Fiber And ATC Poland [Member] Mexico Fiber And ATC Poland Number of converted shares Debt Instrument, Convertible, Number of Equity Instruments Other miscellaneous liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Noncurrent Nigeria Letters of Credit Nigeria Letters Of Credit [Member] Nigeria Letters Of Credit Debt repaid Repayments of Debt South Africa SOUTH AFRICA ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag Total liabilities Liabilities Noncontrolling interests Equity, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Dividends paid (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Schedule of Cash, cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Long-lived assets held Long-Lived Assets Weighted average exercise price per share of options exercisable (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Series 2015-1 Class Series 2015-1 Class A [Member] Series 2015-1 Class A [Member] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share 0.950% senior notes 0.950% Notes 0.950% Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member] 0.950% Senior Notes Due 2030 Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-Based Compensation Arrangements by Share-Based Payment Award [Table] Functional Currency Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Distribution received Proceeds from Dividends Received Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Expiration Date Trading Arrangement Expiration Date (Gain) loss on investments, unrealized foreign currency (gain) loss and other non-cash expense Loss (Gain) On Investments And Other Non-cash (Income) Expense Loss (Gain) On Investments And Other Non-cash (Income) Expense Current portion of operating lease liability Current portion of lease liability Less current portion of lease liability Operating Lease, Liability, Current Total Shareholder Return Amount Total Shareholder Return Amount Operating history, period Operating History, Period Operating History, Period Successive terms to renew lease Successive Terms To Renew Lease Number of successive terms to renew lease. Other Goodwill, Other Increase (Decrease) Proceeds from sales of short-term investments and other non-current assets Proceeds From Sale Of Available For Sale Securities And Other Productive Assets The cash inflow associated with the sale of debt and equity securities classified as available-for-sale securities. Also includes the cash inflow from the sale of other tangible or intangible assets used to produce goods or deliver services not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Equity Awards Adjustments, Footnote Equity Awards Adjustments, Footnote [Text Block] Additions Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred PGGM PGGM [Member] PGGM Equipment Equipment [Member] Accrued expenses, deferred payment of post-closing adjustments amount Accrued Expenses, Deferred Payment Of Post-Closing Adjustments Amount Accrued Expenses, Deferred Payment Of Post-Closing Adjustments, Amount Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Options exercised (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Named Executive Officers, Footnote Named Executive Officers, Footnote [Text Block] Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reduction as a result of the lapse of statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Less accumulated depreciation Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization DILUTED (in shares) Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Weighted average grant date fair value of units vested and deferred (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested And Deferred Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested And Deferred MNPI Disclosure Timed for Compensation Value MNPI Disclosure Timed for Compensation Value [Flag] Total American Tower Corporation equity Equity, Attributable to Parent Goodwill impairment included in discontinued operations Goodwill impairment Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill, Impairment Loss Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill, Impairment Loss Services revenue Services Revenue [Member] Services Revenue [Member] Revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Business Combinations [Abstract] Business Combinations [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] 2024 Other Acquisitions 2024 Other Acquisitions [Member] 2024 Other Acquisitions Schedule of Changes in the Carrying Value of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Europe Europe property Property, Europe [Member] Property, Europe Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Undrawn letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Selling, general, administrative and development expense Segment selling, general, administrative and development expense Selling, General and Administrative Expense Non-lease property revenue Non-Lease Property Revenue [Member] Non-Lease Property Revenue [Member] Company's contribution Defined Contribution Plan, Cost 3.375% senior notes 3.375% Notes 3.375% Senior Notes Due 2026 [Member] Three Point Three Seven Five Percent Senior Notes Due October 15, 2026 [Member] 2011 Buyback 2011 Buyback [Member] 2011 Buyback [Member] Number of shares issuable under stock incentive plan (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax (benefit) expense of $(0.8), $0.3, and $(0.8), respectively. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Tax Treatment [Axis] Tax Treatment [Axis] Tax Treatment [Axis] Acquisition, disposition and merger related expenses Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs All Executive Categories All Executive Categories [Member] Statement of Financial Position Location, Balance [Domain] Statement of Financial Position Location, Balance [Domain] Convertible Debt Securities Convertible Debt Securities [Member] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Other SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Other Deduction (Gain) loss on investments, unrealized foreign currency (gain) loss and other non-cash expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) On Investments, Unrealized Foreign Currency Gain (loss) And Other Non-Cash Income (Expense) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) On Investments, Unrealized Foreign Currency Gain (loss) And Other Non-Cash Income (Expense) 2026 Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Expected Amortization, Year Two Changed Peer Group, Footnote Changed Peer Group, Footnote [Text Block] Weighted average remaining life, outstanding Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Right-of-use asset Deferred Tax Liabilities, Right-of-Use Asset Deferred Tax Liabilities, Right-of-Use Asset ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Document Type Document Type Current commitment fee, percentage Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Employee maximum annual contribution eligible for match Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent Schedule of Summarized Financial Information Concerning the Company's Reportable Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Weighted average remaining life, exercisable Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Schedule of Information About Non-Lease Receivables, Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities From Contracts With Tenants Contract with Customer, Contract Asset, Contract Liability, and Receivable [Table Text Block] Depreciation, amortization and accretion Reduction in depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Schedule of Expected Future Amortization Expenses Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] American Tower Corporation Parent Company [Member] Proceeds from previous acquisition Proceeds from Previous Acquisition Maximum Maximum Maximum [Member] Outstanding number of options (in shares) Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Shares Outstanding Number of optional renewal periods Number Of Annual Renewal Periods Number Of Annual Renewal Periods Equity Valuation Assumption Difference, Footnote Equity Valuation Assumption Difference, Footnote [Text Block] Net Book Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current International Revenue Benchmark Revenue, International Benchmark [Member] Revenue, International Benchmark Weighted average exercise price per share of options expired (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangements by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Property Direct Costs of Leased and Rented Property or Equipment Accrued property and real estate taxes Accrued Property and Real Estate Taxes Accrued Property and Real Estate Taxes Discount from market price Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Purchase Date International Segment Gross Margin Benchmark Gross Margin, International Benchmark [Member] Gross Margin, International Benchmark Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated [Flag] Lessor, Lease, Description [Line Items] Lessor, Lease, Description [Line Items] INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS BEFORE INCOME TAXES Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Non-PEO NEO Average Total Compensation Amount Non-PEO NEO Average Total Compensation Amount Name Outstanding Recovery, Individual Name Schedule of Valuation Allowance Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Schedule of Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Depreciation and amortization Deferred Tax Liability, Depreciation And Amortization Deferred Tax Liability, Depreciation And Amortization Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Goodwill impairment Impairments Goodwill, Impairment Loss Retention PSUs Retention PSUs [Member] Retention PSUs ATC Australia ATC Australia [Member] ATC Australia Award Timing Predetermined Award Timing Predetermined [Flag] Repayments of notes payable, credit facilities, senior notes, secured debt, term loans and finance leases Repayment of Long-Term Debt, Long-Term Lease Obligation, and Capital Security Aggregate payment amount on common stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Redemption price percentage Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Acquired tenant-related intangibles Tenant-related intangible assets Tenant relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Forecast Forecast [Member] Diluted net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders (in dollars per share) Increase in earnings per diluted share (in dollars per share) Diluted net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders (in dollars per share) Diluted net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Asia-Pacific Africa & APAC Africa & APAC property Property, Asia-Pacific [Member] Property, Asia-Pacific Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] United States Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Costs of operations (exclusive of items shown separately below): Cost of Goods and Services Sold [Abstract] Unearned revenue Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Liability Restatement does not require Recovery Restatement Does Not Require Recovery [Text Block] Other operating (income) expense Other Nonrecurring (Income) Expense Ownership [Axis] Ownership [Axis] Deferred rent Deferred Tax, Deferred Rent, Noncurrent Deferred Tax, Deferred Rent, Noncurrent Employers matching percentage Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay Foreign currency (gains) losses recorded in Other expense Gain (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction, before Tax Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] 2027 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received, Year Three Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] (Decrease) increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses for purchases of property and equipment and construction activities Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid, Increase (Decrease) Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid, Increase (Decrease) Germany Subsidiaries Operating In Germany [Member] Germany Operations Increase (decrease) in unrecognized tax benefit Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total fair value of restricted stock units vested during period Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value NET INCOME Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Gain on sale Gain (loss) on sale Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal Income tax provision Income tax provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] 2025 Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year One Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year One 2027 Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Three Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Three Expected recognition of stock award compensation expense weighted average period in years Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Total non-lease revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Other non-current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Liabilities Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Cash provided by (used for) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Income Tax Jurisdiction [Axis] Income Tax Jurisdiction [Axis] 5.450% senior notes 5.450% Senior Notes Due 2034 [Member] 5.450% Senior Notes Due 2034 Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Foreign currency exchange rate, remeasurement Foreign Currency Exchange Rate, Remeasurement All Adjustments to Compensation All Adjustments to Compensation [Member] Payroll and related withholdings Employee-related Liabilities, Current Prepaid and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital 2021 Multicurrency Credit Facility In Euros 2021 Multicurrency Credit Facility In Euros [Member] 2021 Multicurrency Credit Facility In Euros Additions Restructuring Charges Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] 5.550% senior notes 5.550% Notes 5.550 % Senior Notes Due 2033 [Member] 5.550 % Senior Notes Due 2033 Amounts payable to tenants Broker-Dealer, Payable to Customer Scenario [Domain] Scenario [Domain] Property lease revenue Operating Lease, Lease Income Interest expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Expense Total Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-Term Debt, Type [Domain] Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Maturing on August 27, 2024 Maturing on August 27, 2024 [Member] Maturing on August 27, 2024 Erroneous Compensation Analysis Erroneous Compensation Analysis [Text Block] Current assets of discontinued operations Total current assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Total consideration Proceeds received at closing Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Allianz Allianz Capital Partners [Member] Allianz Capital Partners Service Life Service Life [Member] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Weighted average grant date fair value of units outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share) Weighted average grant date fair value of units outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Future cash outlay Asset Retirement Obligation, Cash Paid to Settle 2023 PSUs 2023 PSUs [Member] 2023 PSUs Changes in valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Restatement Determination Date Restatement Determination Date Options vested (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Series 2023-1A Securities Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2023-1A [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2023-1A Estimate of Fair Value Measurement Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Current year increases SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Cost and Expense DEFERRED RENT ASSET Deferred Rent Receivables, Net, Noncurrent Pay vs Performance Disclosure Pay vs Performance Disclosure [Table] Schedule III - SCHEDULE OF REAL ESTATE AND ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Text Block] Other subsidiary debt Other Subsidiary Debt [Member] Other Subsidiary Debt [Member] Remaining payable on asset acquisition Asset Acquisition, Liability Asset Acquisition, Liability Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Weighted average exercise price per share of options outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share) Weighted average exercise price per share of options outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] RIGHT-OF-USE ASSET Right-of-use asset Right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Erroneously Awarded Compensation Recovery Erroneously Awarded Compensation Recovery [Table] Accrued expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Liabilities, Current Options outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Options outstanding at end of period (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Exercise Price Range [Domain] Exercise Price Range [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Distributions payable Dividends Payable, Current 5.400% Notes 5.400% Senior Notes Due 2034 [Member] 5.400% Senior Notes Due 2034 5.450% Notes 5.450% Senior Notes Due 2033 [Member] 5.450% Senior Notes Due 2033 EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Issuance of common stock—stock purchase plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan 0.500% senior notes 0.500% Notes 0.500% Senior Notes Due 2028 [Member] 0.500% Senior Notes Due 2028 Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] OPERATING EXPENSES: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Maturity Period [Domain] Maturity Period [Domain] Maturity Period [Domain] Weighted average life Debt, Weighted Average Life The weighted average life of outstanding debt Restricted cash Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Weighted average grant date fair value of units granted (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value 3.800% senior notes 3.800% Notes 3.800% Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] Three Point Eight Percent Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Peer Group Issuers, Footnote Peer Group Issuers, Footnote [Text Block] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Schedule of Maturities of Finance Lease Liabilities Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Maturity [Table Text Block] Series 2023-1R Securities Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2023-1R [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2023-1R T-Mobile T-Mobile [Member] T-Mobile [Member] Weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share) Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward] Percentage of ownership interest sold Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Ownership Percentage In Disposed Asset Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Ownership Percentage In Disposed Asset Borrowings under credit facilities Proceeds from Lines of Credit Assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense [Abstract] Diluted net income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share PEO PEO [Member] ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Name Trading Arrangement, Individual Name Long-Lived Tangible Asset [Axis] Long-Lived Tangible Asset [Axis] 2028 Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Four Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Four Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] AT Iberia Cv AT Iberia Cv [Member] AT Iberia C.V 2028 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received, Year Four Treasury stock (11,004 shares at cost) Treasury stock repurchased amount Treasury Stock, Common, Value Awards Close in Time to MNPI Disclosures, Table Awards Close in Time to MNPI Disclosures [Table Text Block] Spain Subsidiaries Operating In Spain [Member] Subsidiaries Operating In Spain Dividends payable Dividends Payable Capital expenditures Capital Expenditure, Discontinued Operations Prior Year End Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in Any Prior Year that Fail to Meet Applicable Vesting Conditions During Covered Year Prior Year End Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in Any Prior Year that Fail to Meet Applicable Vesting Conditions During Covered Year [Member] 2.700% senior notes 2.700% Notes 2.700% Senior Notes Due 2031 [Member] 2.700% Senior Notes Due 2031 Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: Cash Flow, Lessee [Abstract] Cash Flow, Lessee [Abstract] Aggregate Erroneous Compensation Amount Aggregate Erroneous Compensation Amount Value added tax and other consumption tax receivables Value Added Tax Receivable Number of operating markets related to acquired sites Site Acquired, Number Of Operating Markets Site Acquired, Number Of Operating Markets Foreign withholding taxes Foreign Withholding Taxes Foreign withholding taxes Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Valuation allowance Valuation allowance Balance as of January 1, Balance as of December 31, Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Other miscellaneous current assets Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Current Aggregate Erroneous Compensation Not Yet Determined Aggregate Erroneous Compensation Not Yet Determined [Text Block] Schedule of intangible asset impairment [Line Items] Schedule of intangible asset impairment [Line Items] Schedule of intangible asset impairment [Line Items] PREPAID AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS Other Current Assets [Text Block] Distributions paid on common stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock And Share-Based Payment Arrangement Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock And Share-Based Payment Arrangement Current portion of long-term obligations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Long-Term Debt, Current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Long-Term Debt, Current Change in Accounting Estimate by Type [Axis] Change in Accounting Estimate by Type [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] PEO Total Compensation Amount PEO Total Compensation Amount Total additions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Period Additions to Cost Total additions to cost during the period. Lessor, Lease, Description [Table] Lessor, Lease, Description [Table] Long-Lived Tangible Asset [Domain] Long-Lived Tangible Asset [Domain] Statement of Income Location, Balance [Axis] Statement of Income Location, Balance [Axis] Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Weighted average exercise price per share of options vested (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Foreign currency translation Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease) Related To Foreign Currency Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease) Related To Foreign Currency Cash trap debt service credit ratio Cash Trap Debt Service Credit Ratio Cash Trap Debt Service Credit Ratio Long-lived asset held and used, net realizable value (less than in 2023) Long-Lived Asset, Held-For-Use, Net Realizable Value Long-Lived Asset, Held-For-Use, Net Realizable Value Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Property straight-line revenues Straight-Line Revenue Straight-line revenue recognized over the term of non-cancellable tenant leases that contain fixed escalation clauses. Common Stock Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Forgone Recovery due to Expense of Enforcement, Amount Forgone Recovery due to Expense of Enforcement, Amount Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Share-based payment arrangement, accelerated cost Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Accelerated Cost 5.500% senior notes 5.500% Notes 5.500% Senior Notes, Due 2028 [Member] 5.500% Senior Notes, Due 2028 Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Shares paid for tax withholding for share based compensation (in shares) Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Shares Withheld for Tax Withholding Obligation Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Leased assets, number of communication sites Leased Assets, Number Of Units Leased Assets, Number Of Units Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Non-PEO NEO Average Compensation Actually Paid Amount Non-PEO NEO Average Compensation Actually Paid Amount Other selling, general, administrative and development expense Other Selling, General and Administrative Expense Schedule of Merger and Acquisition Related Costs Schedule of Merger and Acquisition Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of merger and acquisition related costs [Table Text Block] EQUITY Equity [Text Block] Accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Award Timing, How MNPI Considered Award Timing, How MNPI Considered [Text Block] Schedule of Intangible Asset Impairment [Table] Schedule of intangible asset impairment [Table] Schedule of intangible asset impairment [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] BUSINESS SEGMENTS Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Current portion of long-term obligations Long-Term Debt, Current Maturities Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] 4.625% Notes 4.625% Senior Notes Due 2031 [Member] 4.625% Senior Notes Due 2031 Minimum debt service credit ratio Minimum Debt Service Credit Ratio The maximum debt service credit ratio covenant defined in the credit facility agreement. Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Title Trading Arrangement, Individual Title Subsidiaries, ATC TIPL Subsidiaries, ATC TIPL [Member] Subsidiaries, ATC TIPL Africa property Africa Property, Africa [Member] Property, Africa 5.200% senior notes 5.200% Notes 5.200% Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] 5.200% Senior Notes Due 2029 Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Unsecured Debt Unsecured Debt [Member] 2021 PSUs 2021 PSUs [Member] 2021 PSUs Telxius Acquisition Telxius Telecom S.A. [Member] Telxius Telecom S.A. Schedule of Domestic and Foreign Components of Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Balance at January 1 Balance at December 31 Unrecognized Tax Benefits Geographic Concentration Risk Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 1.250% senior notes 1.250% Notes 1.250% Senior Notes Due 2033 [Member] 1.250% Senior Notes Due 2033 City Area Code City Area Code Income tax provision (benefit) Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Stonepeak Development Partnership Stonepeak Development Partnership [Member] Stonepeak Development Partnership CURRENT LIABILITIES: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Auditor Location Auditor Location Changes in tax laws Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Insider Trading Policies and Procedures Not Adopted Insider Trading Policies and Procedures Not Adopted [Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Table [Line Items] Asset Retirement Obligation Table [Line Items] Asset Retirement Obligation Table [Line Items] 1.450% senior notes 1.450% Notes 1.450% Senior Notes Due 2026 [Member] 1.450% Senior Notes Due 2026 SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate [Roll Forward] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate [Roll Forward] Series 2018-1A Securities Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018-1A [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018-1A [Member] Preferred Stock Preferred Stock [Member] Dividends Payable [Table] Dividends Payable [Table] 3.55% senior notes 3.55% Notes 3.55% Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member] Three Point Five Five Percent Senior Notes [Member] 2021 EUR Three Year Delayed Draw Term Loan 2021 EUR Three Year Delayed Draw Term Loan [Member] 2021 EUR Three Year Delayed Draw Term Loan Purchases of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Operating leases: Operating leases: Operating Leases [Abstract] Operating Leases [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] 2.950% senior notes 2.950% Notes 2.950% Senior Notes Due 2051 [Member] 2.950% Senior Notes Due 2051 Schedule of Fair Value Level of Inputs Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] 0.450% senior notes 0.450% Notes 0.450% Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member] 0.450% Senior Notes Due 2027 Proceeds from term loans Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] BUSINESS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE AMOUNTS: Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Equity [Abstract] Equity [Abstract] Distributions in excess of earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Interest income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Income Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration] 5.200% senior notes and 5.450% senior notes 5.200% Senior Notes Due 2029 And 5.450% Senior Notes Due 2034 [Member] 5.200% Senior Notes Due 2029 And 5.450% Senior Notes Due 2034 Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Net income (loss) Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Net assets at closing Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Net Assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Net Assets Reduction of operating lease liability due to the ATC TIPL Transaction Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Reduction Of Operating Lease Liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Reduction Of Operating Lease Liabilities Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Foreign currency Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Unrealized (losses) gains for equity securities Equity Securities, FV-NI, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Aggregate Available Trading Arrangement, Securities Aggregate Available Amount Equity Awards Adjustments Equity Awards Adjustments [Member] Operating lease, liability Total operating lease liability Operating Lease, Liability Current liabilities Asset Acquisition, Liabilities, Current Asset Acquisition, Liabilities, Current Underlying Securities Award Underlying Securities Amount PSUs PSUs Performance Shares [Member] Units expected to vest (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instrument Other Than Options Expected To Vest Net Of Forfeitures The net number of shares under a share-based award plan, other than a stock option plan, that are expected to vest. 2029 Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Five Interest income Interest Income, Other Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Other SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Other Addition Net assets acquired Asset Acquisition, Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Asset Acquisition, Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Cost of real estate sold or disposed SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Cost of Investment in Real Estate Sold Other income (expense), net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income (Expense), Net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income (Expense), Net Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Other Other Asset Impairment Charges Series 2023 Securities Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2023 [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2023 Amortization of right-of-use asset Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Net proceeds Proceeds from Sale of Equity Securities, FV-NI Selling, General, Administrative and Development Expense Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Policy [Policy Text Block] SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] OTHER OPERATING EXPENSE Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Equity shares sold (in shares) Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction LONG-TERM OBLIGATIONS Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Unrealized loss on foreign currency Deferred Tax Assets, Unrealized Currency Losses Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation Disclosure [Line Items] Debt instrument, face amount Aggregate Principal Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Reclassification of cumulative translation adjustment Reclassification of cumulative translation adjustment Discontinued Operation, Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses), Net Of Tax Discontinued Operation, Cumulative Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses), Net Of Tax Series 2013-1A Securities Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2013-1A [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2013-1A [Member] Total additions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Additions To Accumulated Depreciation Total additions to accumulated depreciation during the period. Integration costs Business Combination, Integration Related Costs Basic net income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders per common share (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accrued pass-through costs Accrued Pass-Through Costs Accrued Pass-Through Costs LEASES Lessor, Operating Leases [Text Block] Deposits and other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Other Noncurrent Assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] 3.900% Senior Notes, Due 2030 [Member] 3.900% senior notes 3.900% Notes 3.900% Senior Notes, Due 2030 [Member] 3.900% Senior Notes, Due 2030 Year-over-Year Change in Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in Prior Years That are Outstanding and Unvested Year-over-Year Change in Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in Prior Years That are Outstanding and Unvested [Member] Capital gains distribution Capital Gains [Member] Capital Gains Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Auditor Name Auditor Name Weighted average grant date fair value of units forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Loss on retirement of long-term obligations Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Year-end Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in Covered Year that are Outstanding and Unvested Year-end Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted in Covered Year that are Outstanding and Unvested [Member] Kirtonkhola Tower Bangladesh Limited Kirtonkhola Tower Bangladesh Limited [Member] Kirtonkhola Tower Bangladesh Limited Estimated undiscounted future cash outlay for asset retirement obligations Estimated Undiscounted Future Cash Outlay for Asset Retirement Obligations Estimated Undiscounted Future Cash Outlay for Asset Retirement Obligations Estimated useful life of respective assets Estimated Useful Lives (years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Depreciation SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Depreciation Expense Options Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] All Other Entities All Other Entities [Member] All Other Entities Adjustment To PEO Compensation, Footnote Adjustment To PEO Compensation, Footnote [Text Block] PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net Increase in long-lived tangible asset Property and equipment, net Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Other accruals and allowances Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Returns and Allowances Unearned revenue Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Financing cash flows from finance leases Finance Lease, Principal Payments NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO AMERICAN TOWER CORPORATION COMMON STOCKHOLDERS, Basic Net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders Net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders, basic Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic 4.125% Senior Notes 4.125% senior notes 4.125% Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member] 4.125% Senior Notes Due 2027 Compensation Actually Paid vs. Other Measure Compensation Actually Paid vs. Other Measure [Text Block] Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders Distributions To Noncontrolling Interest Holders Distributions To Noncontrolling Interest Holders Stock, Class of Stock [Table] Stock, Class of Stock [Table] Vesting Date Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted and Vested in Covered Year Vesting Date Fair Value of Equity Awards Granted and Vested in Covered Year [Member] WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING (in thousands): Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] TOTAL Assets Assets Services Cost of Goods and Services Sold 5.800% senior notes 5.800% Notes 5.800% Senior Notes Due 2028 [Member] 5.800% Senior Notes Due 2028 Payments for purchase of property and equipment and construction activities Aggregate purchase price Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Stock Options And Time Based Restricted Stock Units Stock Options And Time Based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Stock Options And Time Based Restricted Stock Units OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Other non-current liabilities Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Forgone Recovery due to Violation of Home Country Law, Amount Forgone Recovery due to Violation of Home Country Law, Amount COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Stock-Based Compensation Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Policy Text Block] Awards with vesting accelerated (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Accelerated Vesting, Number Schedule of Reconciliation Between The U.S. Statutory Rate and The Effective Rate from Continuing Operations Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Termination Date Trading Arrangement Termination Date Straight-line ground rent expense Straight-Line Ground Rent Expense Straight-line ground rent expense recognized over the term of non-cancellable ground leases that contain fixed escalation clauses. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] 2026 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Two Period during which no prepayment consideration is due Debt Instrument, Period During Which No Prepayment Consideration is Due, Period Debt Instrument, Period During Which No Prepayment Consideration is Due, Period Other non-current assets Asset Acquisition, Other Assets, Non Current Asset Acquisition, Other Assets, Non Current Loss on Sale of Discontinued ATC TIPL Loss On Sale Of Discontinued Operation [Member] Loss On Sale Of Discontinued Operation Series 2013-1A and Series 2013-2A Securities Commercial Mortgage Pass Through Certificates Series 2013 [Member] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Net Income (Loss) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Acquired licenses and other intangibles Acquired Licenses And Other Intangibles [Member] Acquired Licenses And Other Intangibles Member Other operating expense Total Other operating expenses Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Trading Arrangement: Trading Arrangement [Axis] Redevelopment capital expenditures SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Redevelopment Capital Expenditures Amount of redevelopment capital expenditures made to real estate investments during the period. Pay vs Performance Disclosure, Table Pay vs Performance [Table Text Block] Equity Awards Adjustments, Excluding Value Reported in Compensation Table Equity Awards Adjustments, Excluding Value Reported in the Compensation Table [Member] International Segment Operating Profit Benchmark Operating Profit, International Benchmark [Member] Operating Profit, International Benchmark Gain on sales of investments included in discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) On Investments Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) On Investments AT&T Transaction AT And T Transaction [Member] At&T Transaction [Member] Entity File Number Entity File Number 5.650% senior notes 5.650% Notes 5.650% Senior Notes, Due 2033 [Member] 5.650% Senior Notes, Due 2033 Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement [Abstract] Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign currency losses (gains) recorded in AOCL Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Reclassified As AOCI Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Reclassified As AOCI Net effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Dividends, common stock Dividends, Common Stock Operating lease, term of contract Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Name Forgone Recovery, Individual Name Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Discretionary ground lease purchases SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Discretionary Ground Lease, Purchases Amount of ground lease purchase investments during the period. 5.000% senior notes 5.000% senior notes Due 2030 [Member] 5.000% senior notes Due 2030 Award Timing MNPI Considered Award Timing MNPI Considered [Flag] 2017 Buyback 2017 Buyback [Member] 2017 Buyback [Member] 2.300% senior notes 2.300% Notes 2.300% Senior Notes Due 2031 [Member] 2.300% Senior Notes Due 2031 Restricted cash included in assets of discontinued operations Restricted cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Restricted Cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Restricted Cash Goodwill Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill, Noncurrent Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Outstanding Aggregate Erroneous Compensation Amount Outstanding Aggregate Erroneous Compensation Amount Schedule of Stock by Class Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block] PEO Actually Paid Compensation Amount PEO Actually Paid Compensation Amount Finance lease payments Finance Lease, Payments, Financing Activities Finance Lease, Payments, Financing Activities Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member] Diluted net income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders (in dollars per share) Diluted net income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Segment operating expenses Cost of Revenue Selling, general, administrative and development expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Selling, General, Administrative And Development Expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Selling, General, Administrative And Development Expense Adjustment to Compensation: Adjustment to Compensation [Axis] Ownership interest acquired Noncontrolling Interest Acquired, Ownership Percentage By Noncontrolling Owners Noncontrolling Interest Acquired, Ownership Percentage By Noncontrolling Owners Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest ATC Europe C.V. ATC Europe C.V. [Member] ATC Europe C.V. Schedule of Information About Other Lease-related Balances Lease, Assets And Liabilities [Table Text Block] Lease, Assets And Liabilities [Table Text Block] Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated foreign currency translation losses Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax RSUs and PSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Performance Share Units (PSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Performance Share Units (PSUs) Restricted cash and cash equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Pension Adjustments Service Cost Pension Adjustments Service Cost [Member] 2029 Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Five Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Five Related Party [Axis] Related and Nonrelated Parties [Axis] BASIC (in shares) Basic weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Stock Price or TSR Estimation Method Stock Price or TSR Estimation Method [Text Block] Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Total equity Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Amortization of deferred financing costs, debt discounts and premiums and other non-cash interest Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Impairments, net loss on sale of long-lived assets, non-cash restructuring and merger related expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Impairments, Net Loss On Sale Of Long-lived Assets, Non-Cash Restructuring And Merger Related Expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Impairments, Net Loss On Sale Of Long-lived Assets, Non-Cash Restructuring And Merger Related Expenses Name Awards Close in Time to MNPI Disclosures, Individual Name Depreciation, amortization and accretion Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Depreciation and Amortization Construction-in-progress Construction in Progress [Member] Units vested and deferred (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instrument Other Than Options, Vested And Deferred Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instrument Other Than Options, Vested And Deferred Sales Revenue, Net Revenue Revenue Benchmark [Member] Options forfeited (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Receipts Expected Under Operating Leases Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received, Maturity [Table Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS ATTRIBUTABLE TO AMERICAN TOWER CORPORATION COMMON STOCKHOLDERS, DILUTED Net income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower common stockholders, diluted Net Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Available to Common Shareholders, Diluted $88.38 - $94.23 Range One [Member] Range One [Member] Settlements Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Other Asset Acquisition [Abstract] Options exercisable (in shares) Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Shares Exercisable Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Capital expenditures Segment, Expenditure, Addition to Long-Lived Assets Schedule of Contract Assets And Liabilities From Contracts With Customers [Line Items] Schedule of Contract Assets And Liabilities From Contracts With Customers [Line Items] [Line Items] for Schedule of Contract Assets And Liabilities From Contracts With Customers [Table] Retirement Plan Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Nonpension Benefits, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Components of Operating Lease Cost Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Prepaid and Other Current Assets Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finance Lease Assets Included in Property Plant and Equipment Schedule of Finance Lease Assets Included In Property Plant And Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finance Lease Assets Included In Property Plant And Equipment [Table Text Block] Foreign currency translation adjustment attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Adjustment, Net Of Tax, Less Amount Reclassified To Additional Paid In Capital Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Adjustment, Net Of Tax, Less Amount Reclassified To Additional Paid In Capital 0.400% senior notes 0.400% Notes 0.400% Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member] 0.400% Senior Notes Due 2027 Stock conversion period Stock Conversion, Period Stock Conversion, Period Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the ETR Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Terminal Growth Rates on Cash Flows Terminal Growth Rates On Cash Flows [Member] Terminal Growth Rates On Cash Flows Number of tenants Number of Tenants Number of tenants Encumbrances SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revisions in estimates Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] 3.100% senior notes 3.100% Notes 3.100% Senior Notes Due 2050 [Member] 3.100% Senior Notes Due 2050 All Trading Arrangements All Trading Arrangements [Member] Compensation Actually Paid vs. Net Income Compensation Actually Paid vs. Net Income [Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Basic and Diluted by Common Class Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Vesting period Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted [Flag] Operating loss Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) 2030 to 2034 Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years Six Through Ten Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years Six Through Ten Awards Close in Time to MNPI Disclosures Awards Close in Time to MNPI Disclosures [Table] Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] Cash paid for income taxes (net of refunds of $31.8, $31.5 and $33.9, respectively) Income Taxes Paid, Net Confidence Group Confidence Group [Member] Confidence Group Schedule of Stock-Based Compensation Expenses Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Cost by Plan [Table Text Block] Intangible assets Asset Acquisition, Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Asset Acquisition, Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Pay vs Performance Disclosure [Line Items] Peer Group Total Shareholder Return Amount Peer Group Total Shareholder Return Amount Maximum consideration to be received upon disposal Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration To Be Received, Maximum Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration To Be Received, Maximum Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Asset Retirement Obligation Table [Table] Asset Retirement Obligation Table [Table] Asset Retirement Obligation Table 4.000% senior notes 4.000% Notes 4.000% Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] Four Point Zero Zero Percent Senior Notes Labor costs capitalized Capitalized Labor Costs Amount of interest capitalized during the period. Deferred: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table] Commercial Mortgage Pass Through Certificates Series 2015 Commercial Mortgage Pass Through Certificates Series 2015 [Member] Commercial Mortgage Pass Through Certificates Series 2015 [Member] Other Performance Measure, Amount Other Performance Measure, Amount 2027 Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Expected Amortization, Year Three Communication Sites Sites Communication Sites [Member] Communication Sites [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] LEASES Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block] Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Balance at beginning of period (in shares) Balance at end of period (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Documents Incorporated by Reference Documents Incorporated by Reference [Text Block] Operating lease cost Operating Lease, Cost Thereafter Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, After Year Five Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, After Year Five Deal costs Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deal Costs Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deal Costs OPERATING LEASE LIABILITY Lease liability Non-current lease liability Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Interest expense on finance lease liabilities Finance Lease, Interest Expense Unearned revenue Contract with Customer, Liability, Current Proceeds from stock options and employee stock purchase plan Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Debt repayment period Debt Instrument, Payment Terms, Repayment Period Debt Instrument, Payment Terms, Repayment Period Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Intangible Asset, Finite-Lived [Table] Intangible Asset, Finite-Lived [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Additions and reductions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Treasury stock activity (in shares) Treasury stock activity (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Selling, General and Administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock, Common [Member] 4.050% senior notes 4.050% senior notes Due 2032 [Member] Four Point Zero Five Zero senior notes Due 2032 Notes receivable and other non-current assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Noncurrent Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Thereafter Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, after Year Five Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Total lease payments Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid Latin America Latin America property Property, Latin America [Member] Property, Latin America Weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share) Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Asset Retirement Obligation [Line Items] Asset Retirement Obligation [Line Items] Asset Retirement Obligation U.S. & Canada U.S. & Canada property Property, US And Canada [Member] Property, US And Canada Aggregate purchase option price for towers Aggregate Purchase Option Price For Towers Aggregate Purchase Option Price For Towers Verizon Transaction Verizon Transaction [Member] Verizon Transaction [Member] Total operating expenses Costs and Expenses Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Other Expenses Table [Table] Other Expenses Table [Table] Other Expenses Table [Table] Number of units SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Number of Units Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value 0.875% senior notes 0.875% Notes 0.875% Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] 0.875% Senior Notes Due 2029 Non-cash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] India Term Loan India Term Loan [Member] India Term Loan Property and equipment Asset Acquisition, Property Plant And Equipment, Net Asset Acquisition, Property Plant And Equipment, Net Loss on sale of ATC TIPL Total loss on sale included in loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes Loss on sale of ATC TIPL Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax 2040 to 2044 Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years Sixteen Through Twenty Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years Sixteen Through Twenty Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Write-offs, recoveries and other SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Addition, Recovery Schedule of Severance and Related Costs Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] 1.375% senior notes 1.375% Notes 1.375% Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] One Point Three Seventy Five Percent, Senior Notes due 2025 [Member] 2029 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Five Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Reduction in depreciation and amortization expense after tax Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net, After Tax Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net, After Tax Aggregate Grant Date Fair Value of Equity Award Amounts Reported in Summary Compensation Table Aggregate Grant Date Fair Value of Equity Award Amounts Reported in Summary Compensation Table [Member] Finance leases: Finance Leases [Abstract] Finance Leases [Abstract] AT Rhine CV AT Rhine CV [Member] AT Rhine CV Issuance of common stock - stock purchase plan (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Non-cash items: Non-Cash Items [Abstract] Non-Cash Items [Abstract] 3.950% Notes 3.950% Senior Notes Due 2028 [Member] 3.950% Senior Notes Due 2028 Property Property [Member] Property [Member] 4.125% Notes 4.125 Percent Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member] 4.125 Percent Senior Notes Due 2027 Payments Payments for Restructuring Amortization of lease incentive, period Amortization Of Lease Incentive, Period Amortization Of Lease Incentive, Period Communication Sites Benchmark Communication Sites Benchmark [Member] Communication Sites Benchmark Segment Gross Margin Benchmark Segment Gross Margin Benchmark [Member] Segment Gross Margin Benchmark CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, BEGINNING OF YEAR CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, AND RESTRICTED CASH, END OF YEAR Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash, and Restricted Cash Equivalents Weighted average interest rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Usage, expiration and reversals Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Decrease Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Decrease Total unrecognized compensation expense Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Nonvested Award, Cost Not yet Recognized, Amount Ordinary dividend Ordinary Income [Member] Ordinary Income [Member] Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) CURRENT ASSETS: Assets, Current [Abstract] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] 3.900% senior notes and 4.100% senior notes 3.900% Senior Notes Due 2030 And 4.100% Senior Notes Due 2034 [Member] 3.900% Senior Notes Due 2030 And 4.100% Senior Notes Due 2034 Treasury stock, shares (in shares) Balance at beginning of period (in shares) Balance at end of period (in shares) Treasury Stock, Common, Shares Tax Treatment [Domain] Tax Treatment [Domain] [Domain] for Tax Treatment [Axis] Forgone Recovery due to Disqualification of Tax Benefits, Amount Forgone Recovery due to Disqualification of Tax Benefits, Amount Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Subsidiary Concentration Risk Subsidiary Concentration Risk [Member] Subsidiary Concentration Risk Weighted average grant date fair value of units vested and released (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Valuation, Income Approach Valuation, Income Approach [Member] Number of subsidiaries disposed Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Number Of Subsidiaries Disposed Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Number Of Subsidiaries Disposed Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name Current margin over LIBOR or EURIBOR (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Intangible assets, measurement input Intangible Assets, Measurement Input Intangible Assets, Measurement Input Weighted average exercise price per share of options exercised (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangements by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Additions during period: SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Additions [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Additions State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Forgone Recovery, Explanation of Impracticability Forgone Recovery, Explanation of Impracticability [Text Block] CoreSite Acquisition CoreSite Realty Corporation [Member] CoreSite Realty Corporation Number of Units Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Stonepeak Partners LP Stonepeak Partners LP [Member] Stonepeak Partners LP Three Customers Three Customers [Member] Three Customers Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Number of trust sites assets Number Of Trust Sites Assets Number of Trust Sites Assets [Member] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Concentration risk, percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Total assets of discontinued operations Total assets of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets 3.600% senior notes 3.600% Notes 3.600% Senior Notes Due 2028 [Member] Three Point Six Zero Zero Percent Senior Notes [Member] Impairments, net loss on sale of long-lived assets, non-cash restructuring and merger related expenses Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges Deductions during period: SEC Schedule, 12-28 Real Estate Companies, Deductions abstract [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-28 Real Estate Companies, Deductions abstract Depreciation, amortization and accretion Depreciation and Amortization, Discontinued Operations Insider Trading Policies and Procedures Adopted Insider Trading Policies and Procedures Adopted [Flag] Distributions Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts receivable Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table] Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Tower Tower [Member] Tower Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Other SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Addition, Net Of Adjustments SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Addition, Net Of Adjustments Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligation and Environmental Cost [Policy Text Block] Other comprehensive (loss) income: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-Term Debt, Type [Axis] Schedule of Supplemental Cash Flow Information and Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Lease renewal term Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term 4.050% Notes Four Point Zero Five Zero senior notes Due 2031 [Member] Four Point Zero Five Zero senior notes Due 2031 Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items] Statement of Financial Position Location, Balance [Axis] Statement of Financial Position Location, Balance [Axis] Interest expense Interest Expense, Nonoperating Property and equipment, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Noncurrent PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Impairment charges Total impairment charges included in Other operating expense Total impairment charges included in Other operating expense Asset Impairment Charges Included In Other Operating Expense Asset Impairment Charges Included In Other Operating Expense Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] 1.600% senior notes 1.600% Notes 1.600% Senior Notes Due 2026 [Member] 1.600% Senior Notes Due 2026 Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring Fair Value, Recurring [Member] Subsidiaries Operating In France Subsidiaries Operating In France [Member] Subsidiaries Operating In France Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss, Current Noncontrolling ownership interest percentage (as a percent) Subsidiary, Ownership Percentage, Parent Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Asset impairment charges Total impairment charges Asset Impairment Charges Long-term debt Debt outstanding Long-Term Debt Pension Adjustments Prior Service Cost Pension Adjustments Prior Service Cost [Member] Current liabilities of discontinued operations Total current liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Other SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Deduction Debt covenant, number of consecutive quarters required for release of funds Debt Instrument, Covenant, Number of Consecutive Quarters Required For Release of Funds The number of consecutive quarters that DSCR must exceed the Cash Trap DSCR in order for the reserve account funds to be released Number of towers received Property, Plant And Equipment Additions During Noncash Transaction, Number Of Towers Property, Plant And Equipment Additions During Noncash Transaction, Number Of Towers ATC Europe ATC Europe [Member] ATC Europe [Member] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Abstract] Pension Benefits Adjustments, Footnote Pension Benefits Adjustments, Footnote [Text Block] Total Shareholder Return Vs Peer Group Total Shareholder Return Vs Peer Group [Text Block] Ownership percentage (as a percent) Ownership Percentage Ownership Percentage Total foreign currency losses (gains) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), In AOCI And Income Statement Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), In AOCI And Income Statement Document Annual Report Document Annual Report Data Centers Property, Data Centers [Member] Property, Data Centers 2027 Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Three Operating lease modifications and reassessments Non-Cash Operating And Financing, Lease Modifications Non-Cash Operating And Financing, Lease Modifications Exercise price per share, minimum (in dollars per share) Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit 3.700% senior notes 3.700% Notes 3.700% Senior Notes Due 2049 [Member] Three Point Seven Zero Zero Percent Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] Units vested and released (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Deferred rent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Deferred Rent, Noncurrent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Deferred Rent, Noncurrent Risk-free interest rate Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate ATC New Zealand ATC New Zealand [Member] ATC New Zealand Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Equity, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Unearned revenue Contract with Customer, Liability SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] LIABILITIES Liabilities [Abstract] REVENUES: Revenues [Abstract] Accrued construction costs Construction Payable, Current Auditor Information [Abstract] Auditor Information ACQUISITIONS Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Less amounts representing interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount PEO Name PEO Name Accumulated depreciation Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Accumulated Amortization Accounts receivable, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts, Notes and Loans Receivable, Net Award Type [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Dividends declared, common stock, percent of total Common Stock, Dividends Declared, Percentage of Total Common Stock, Dividends Declared, Percentage of Total 2025 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received, Year One Proceeds from issuance of securities in securitization transaction Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt Stock-based compensation related activity (in shares) Shares Issued, Shares, Share-Based Payment Arrangement, after Forfeiture Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-Based Compensation Cost Segment Operating Profit Benchmark Segment Operating Profit Benchmark [Member] Segment Operating Profit Benchmark Compensation Actually Paid vs. Company Selected Measure Compensation Actually Paid vs. Company Selected Measure [Text Block] DEFERRED TAX ASSET Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Non-PEO NEO Non-PEO NEO [Member] Estimated useful lives (years) Estimated Useful Lives (years) Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Impairment, Long-Lived Asset, Held-for-Use, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Impairment, Long-Lived Asset, Held-for-Use, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Lease liability Non-current lease liability Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Other intangible assets, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Noncurrent Brazil BRAZIL Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Total deductions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Period Deductions to Cost Total deductions to cost during the period. Liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Expense [Abstract] Additions Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase Unbilled receivables Unbilled Receivables, Current Accounting Standards Updates New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] 2.400% senior notes 2.400% Notes 2.400% Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] Two Point Four Zero Zero Percent Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization 2028 Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Four Capital improvements SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Improvements Transfer of tower sites Property, Plant And Equipment Additions During Noncash Transaction Property, Plant And Equipment Additions During Noncash Transaction Name Measure Name Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current Telefónica Telefónica [Member] Telefónica Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Canada CANADA Asset Asset Benchmark [Member] Asset Benchmark Schedule of Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Foreign currency gains (losses) Unrealized Gain (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction, before Tax Severance and Related Costs Employee Severance [Member] Colombia COLOMBIA Prepaid and other current assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Prepaid and Other Assets, Current Chile CHILE Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Life on which depreciation in latest income statements is computed SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used for Depreciation Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Stock-based compensation expense Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Noncash Expense Towers and related assets Towers And Related Assets [Member] Towers And Related Assets Business Nature of Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Nature of Operations Policy [Policy Text Block] Australia AUSTRALIA Argentina ARGENTINA Debt interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Lessor, term of lease Lessor, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Other non-current liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Supplemental cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward] Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward] Equity securities Equity Securities, FV-NI NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO AMERICAN TOWER CORPORATION COMMON STOCKHOLDERS, Diluted Net (loss) income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders, diluted Net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders, diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Burkina Faso BURKINA FASO Reduction as a result of effective settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Bangladesh BANGLADESH Long-term debt obligations, including the current portion and discontinued operations Long-Term Debt and Lease Obligation, Including Current Maturities And Discontinued Operations Long-Term Debt and Lease Obligation, Including Current Maturities And Discontinued Operations Total other expense Nonoperating Income (Expense) Services Service [Member] Preferred stock, dividend rate (as a percent) Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Other non-current liabilities Asset Acquisition, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Asset Acquisition, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Africa & APAC Property, Africa & APAC [Member] Property, Africa & APAC Auditor Firm ID Auditor Firm ID Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent OPERATING INCOME Operating Income (Loss) Operating Income (Loss) Decrease in income tax provision due to reversal of valuation allowances Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount South Africa Fiber South Africa Fiber [Member] South Africa Fiber Number of reportable segments Number of Reportable Segments TOTAL Liabilities and Equity Dividends declared Dividends SUBSEQUENT EVENTS Subsequent Events [Text Block] Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated [Flag] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Percentage of ownership after transaction (as a percent) Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership after Transaction 2026 Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Two LOSS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS, NET OF TAXES Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 2026 Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Two Long-Term Debt And Lease Obligation, Maturity, Year Two Less current portion of long-term obligations Long-Term Debt and Lease Obligation, Current Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Schedule of RSU and PSU Activity Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit, Activity [Table Text Block] Accumulated depreciation at close of current period Gross amount of accumulated depreciation at beginning Balance at end SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation Performance period Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award, Performance Period Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award, Performance Period NET LOSS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS ATTRIBUTABLE TO AMERICAN TOWER CORPORATION COMMON STOCKHOLDERS, DILUTED Net income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to American Tower common stockholders, diluted Net Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations Available to Common Shareholders, Diluted Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-Term Debt [Table Text Block] New operating leases Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability Underlying Security Market Price Change Underlying Security Market Price Change, Percent Measurement Input Type [Axis] Measurement Input Type [Axis] Individual: Individual [Axis] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Weighted average exercise price per share of options forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangements by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Expected term (years) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Total liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Measurement Input Type [Domain] Schedule of Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Compensation Actually Paid vs. Total Shareholder Return Compensation Actually Paid vs. Total Shareholder Return [Text Block] Total considerations Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Additions during period: SEC Schedule, 12-28 Real Estate Companies, Additions [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-28 Real Estate Companies, Additions 2024 PSUs 2024 PSUs [Member] 2024 PSUs 1.000% Notes 1.000% senior notes 1.000% Senior Notes Due 2032 [Member] 1.000% Senior Notes Due 2032 Adjustments to principal amount Unamortized discounts, premiums and debt issuance costs, net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Minimum Minimum Minimum [Member] Adoption Date Trading Arrangement Adoption Date Unearned revenue Contract with Customer, Liability, Noncurrent Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Joint Venture - Bangladesh Operations Joint Venture - Bangladesh Operations [Member] Joint Venture - Bangladesh Operations Decrease (increase) to asset retirement obligation due to foreign currency translation Asset Retirement Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) ATC TIPL ATC TIPL [Member] ATC, TIPL [Member] Other Operating Expense Other Operating Income (Expense) [Member] Ghana Ghana GHANA Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Change in Fair Value as of Vesting Date of Prior Year Equity Awards Vested in Covered Year Change in Fair Value as of Vesting Date of Prior Year Equity Awards Vested in Covered Year [Member] Statutory tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Asset retirement obligation Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Asset Retirement Obligation, Noncurrent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Asset Retirement Obligation, Noncurrent Accrued asset retirement obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Asset Retirement Obligations Outstanding Principal Balance Principal amount Long-Term Debt, Gross Exercise Price Award Exercise Price Weighted average grant date fair value of units expected to vest (in dollars per share) Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Expected To Vest Net Of Estimated Forfeitures Weighted average grant date fair value of shares expected to vest, net of forfeitures. Schedule of Components of Net Deferred Tax Asset and Liability Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Spain SPAIN Arrangement Duration Trading Arrangement Duration Schedule of Net Foreign Currency (Gains) Losses Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Value of Asset Retirement Obligations Schedule of Asset Retirement Obligations [Table Text Block] Total Operating Loss Carryforwards LEASES Lessee, Finance Leases [Text Block] GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Basic net income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share American Tower Subsidiary Subsidiaries [Member] Current assets Asset Acquisition, Assets, Current Asset Acquisition, Assets, Current Acquisitions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Acquisition Federal Domestic Tax Jurisdiction [Member] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] Property Property Revenue [Member] Property Revenue [Member] Material Terms of Trading Arrangement Material Terms of Trading Arrangement [Text Block] Debt instrument, term Debt Instrument, Term 2028 Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Expected Amortization, Year Four Total lease liability Finance lease obligations Finance Lease, Liability All Individuals All Individuals [Member] France FRANCE Reporting Unit [Axis] Reporting Unit [Axis] Amount of accumulated depreciation for assets sold or disposed SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Investment in Real Estate Sold Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Deductions during period: SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Deductions [Abstract] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Deductions Other income (expense) (including foreign currency gains (losses) of $308.3, $(330.6), and $451.4 respectively) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Purchases of property and equipment under finance leases, perpetual easements and capital leases Lease Obligation Incurred Proceeds from stock options and employee stock purchase plan Proceeds, Issuance of Shares, Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Including Option Exercised NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS ATTRIBUTABLE TO AMERICAN TOWER CORPORATION COMMON STOCKHOLDERS, BASIC Net income from continuing operations attributable to American Tower common stockholders, basic Net Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Available to Common Shareholders, Basic Discretionary capital projects SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Discretionary Capital Project, Amount Amount of discretionary capital projects made to real estate investments during the period. Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018 Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018 [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018 Costa Rica COSTA RICA Foreign currency Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Assets: Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Fair value of net assets acquired Asset Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, And Liabilities Assumed, Net Asset Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, And Liabilities Assumed, Net Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits, from lapse of statue of limitations and effective settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statue of Limitations and Effective Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statue of Limitations and Effective Settlements Related Party [Domain] Related and Nonrelated Parties [Domain] $94.57 - $94.71 Range Two [Member] Range Two [Member] 5.900% senior notes 5.900% Notes 5.900% Senior Notes Due 2033 [Member] 5.900% Senior Notes Due 2033 Settlement of third-party debt Notes Reduction Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] 2.750% senior notes 2.750% Notes 2.750% Senior Notes Due 2027 [Member] Two Point Seven Five Zero Percent Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net Proceeds from issuance of senior notes Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-Term Debt Contribution to equity method investment Noncash Contribution To Equity Method Investments Noncash Contribution To Equity Method Investments Customer lease, initial term Customer Lease Initial Term Customer Lease Initial Term Loss on early retirement of long-term obligations Extinguishment of Debt, Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Germany GERMANY DEFERRED TAX LIABILITY Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Annualized volatility Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Number of shares repurchased Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Valuation Approach and Technique [Axis] Valuation Approach and Technique [Axis] Percentage of potential target shares Percentage of Potential Target Shares Percentage of potential target shares to be earned under Performance Share agreement Foreign taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Preferred stock, conversion ratio Preferred Stock, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Real Estate [Domain] Real Estate [Domain] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Schedule of Accrued Expenses Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of intangible assets Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived Kenya KENYA CDPQ & Allianz Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec And Allianz Capital Partners [Member] Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec And Allianz Capital Partners COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Net losses on sales or disposals of assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Other Assets Impairment of long-lived assets held for use Impairment, Long-Lived Asset, Held-for-Use Measure: Measure [Axis] Stock-based compensation related activity Shares Issued, Value, Share-Based Payment Arrangement, after Forfeiture Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Issuance of common stock (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Variable lease costs not included in lease liability Variable Lease, Payment Options granted (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company 2007 Plan 2007 Plan [Member] Two Thousand Seven Plan [Member] Acquired network location intangible assets Acquired Network Location Intangible Assets [Member] Acquired Network Location Intangible Assets Weighted Average Cost of Capital Weighted Average Cost Of Capital [Member] Weighted Average Cost Of Capital Cost of operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs of Goods Sold Non-GAAP Measure Description Non-GAAP Measure Description [Text Block] Property and equipment, net Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Amortization Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Weighted average remaining life Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Significant non-cash items: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Additional 402(v) Disclosure Additional 402(v) Disclosure [Text Block] Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Dividends Declared Dividends Declared [Table Text Block] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Indefinite carryforward Indefinite Carryforward Net operating losses with an indefinite carryforward period Measurement Frequency [Domain] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Loss from discontinued operations before taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Other operating expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Operating Expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Operating Expense Total deductions SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Deductions To Accumulated Depreciation Total deductions to accumulated depreciation during the period. Cash paid for interest Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities 3.375% senior notes 3.375% Senior Notes Due 2024 [Member] Senior Notes 3.375% Due May 15, 2024 [Member] Property and equipment, gross Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, before Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization Operating lease liability Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Lease Liabilities, Noncurrent Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Operating Lease Liabilities Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Total current assets Assets, Current Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Leased assets, number of communication sites purchased Leased Assets, Purchased, Number Of Units Leased Assets, Purchased, Number Of Units Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] Debt securities, interest rate (as a percent) Debt Securities, Interest Rate Debt Securities, Interest Rate Change in Settlement Dates Change In Settlement Dates [Member] Change In Settlement Dates Thereafter Lessor, Operating Lease, Payment to be Received, after Year Five Options exercisable (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Long-lived asset held and used, written down (less than in 2024) Long-Lived Asset, Held-For-Use, Written Down Long-Lived Asset, Held-For-Use, Written Down Schedule of Impairment Charges Schedule of Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] Schedule of Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments [Table] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward] SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward] Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Change in Accounting Estimate, Type [Domain] Change in Accounting Estimate, Type [Domain] INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Indemnification liability related to uncertain tax positions Contingent liability for tax indemnification Liability for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, Noncurrent 2028 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Four Right-of-use asset Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Right Of Use Asset, Noncurrent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Right Of Use Asset, Noncurrent 1.875% senior notes 1.875% Notes 1.875% Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member] 1.875% Senior Notes Due 2030 Proceeds from short-term borrowings, net Proceeds From Short-Term Borrowings, Net Proceeds From Short-Term Borrowings, Net Schedule of Net Operating Loss Carryforwards Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] 3.650% senior notes 3.650% Notes 3.650% Senior Notes, Due 2027 [Member] 3.650% Senior Notes, Due 2027 Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Weighted-average incremental borrowing rate Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Cash used for financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Acquired tenant-related intangible assets Acquired Tenant-Related Intangible Assets [Member] Acquired Tenant-Related Intangible Assets Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Long-term debt, fair value Long-Term Debt, Fair Value Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name 5.000% Notes 5.000% Senior Notes Due 2029 [Member] 5.000% Senior Notes Due 2029 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustment to Non-PEO NEO Compensation Footnote Adjustment to Non-PEO NEO Compensation Footnote [Text Block] Segment gross margin Gross Profit State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Fair Value as of Grant Date Award Grant Date Fair Value Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Customer Concentration Risk Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Affiliated Entity Affiliated Entity [Member] Schedule of Reconciliation of Assets from Segments to Consolidated Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018-1R Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018-1R [Member] Secured Tower Revenue Securities, Series 2018-1R [Member] Finite-lived intangible assets, remaining amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period Niger NIGER EQUITY (shares in thousands): Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Schedule of Revenue Disaggregated by Source and Geography Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Issuance of common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Maturity Period [Axis] Maturity Period [Axis] Maturity Period Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Nigeria NIGERIA Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restructuring Cost [Table] Restructuring Cost [Table] Distributions to noncontrolling interest holders Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Restatement Determination Date: Restatement Determination Date [Axis] Gross amount carried at close of current period Gross amount at beginning Balance at end SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Gross Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Common stock: $0.01 par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized; 478,388 and 477,300 shares issued; and 467,384 and 466,296 shares outstanding, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Restructuring Charges, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Restructuring Charges, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Document Financial Statement Error Correction [Flag] Document Financial Statement Error Correction [Flag] Operating cash flows from finance leases Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract] ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS Increase in asset retirement obligation Beginning balance as of January 1, Balance as of December 31, Asset Retirement Obligation New Zealand (4) NEW ZEALAND 2025 to 2029 Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years One Through Five Net Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiring Years One Through Five Accrued interest Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Interest, Current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Interest, Current Aggregate intrinsic value, vested Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Items not currently deductible and other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Land and improvements Land and Land Improvements [Member] AT&T AT and T Mobility [Member] AT&T Mobility Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Schedule of Other Operating Expenses Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Reporting Unit [Domain] Reporting Unit [Domain] Valuation Approach and Technique [Domain] Valuation Approach and Technique [Domain] Basic net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders (in dollars per share) Basic net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders per common share (in dollars per share) Basic net income attributable to American Tower Corporation common stockholders per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Total non-lease revenue Non-Lease Revenue [Member] Non-Lease Revenue [Member] Proceeds from the issuance of common stock, net Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Mexico MEXICO Operating cash flows from operating leases Operating Lease, Payments Award Timing MNPI Disclosure Award Timing MNPI Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Contract Assets And Liabilities From Contracts With Customers [Table] Schedule of Contract Assets And Liabilities From Contracts With Customers [Table] Schedule of Contract Assets And Liabilities From Contracts With Customers [Table] Expiration period Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Expiration Period 2.900% senior notes 2.900% Notes 2.900% Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member] Two Point Nine Zero Zero Percent Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member] Ownership [Domain] Ownership [Domain] Aggregate Pension Adjustments Service Cost Aggregate Pension Adjustments Service Cost [Member] Dividends Payable [Line Items] Dividends Payable [Line Items] 2021 Credit Facility 2021 Credit Facility [Member] 2021 Credit Facility $106.15 - $113.60 Range Three [Member] Range Three [Member] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Net operating loss carryforwards Net Long-Term Operating Loss Carry Forwards Net Long-Term Operating Loss Carry Forwards OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block] Accounts Receivable and Deferred Rent Asset Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] 2025 Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Expected Amortization, Year One Line of credit Long-Term Line of Credit Units granted (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Contributions from noncontrolling interest holders Contributions from noncontrolling interest holders Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Acquisitions Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Total operating revenues Total revenue Segment revenues Revenues Revenues Mexico Fiber Mexico Fiber [Member] Mexico Fiber STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Text Block] 5.00% senior notes 5.00% Senior Notes Due 2024 [Member] Five Point Zero Zero Percent Senior Notes [Member] Services Services Segment [Member] Services Segment [Member] 1.300% senior notes 1.300% Notes 1.300% Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] 1.300% Senior Notes Due 2025 Aggregate purchase price Purchase price Asset Acquisition, Consideration Transferred Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Verizon Wireless Verizon Wireless [Member] Verizon Wireless Uncertain tax positions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Reserves Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Reserves Number of sites acquired Number Of Sites Acquired Number Of Communications Sites Acquired Lease Accounting and Rent Expense Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Option Activity Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Activity [Table Text Block] NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS Total non-current liabilities of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent Intrinsic value of stock options Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Assets Held For Sale Assets Held For Sale, Policy [Policy Text Block] Assets Held For Sale, Policy Stock-based compensation expense Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Expense Network location intangible assets Acquired network location intangibles Acquired Network Location [Member] Acquired network location [Member] DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Stock-based compensation expense Stock-based compensation expense included in discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties and interest Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Weighted average exercise price per share of options granted (in dollars per share) Share-Based Compensation Arrangements by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Units forfeited (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Schedule of Other Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Dividends or Other Earnings Paid on Equity Awards not Otherwise Reflected in Total Compensation for Covered Year Dividends or Other Earnings Paid on Equity Awards not Otherwise Reflected in Total Compensation for Covered Year [Member] Foreign Foreign Tax Jurisdiction [Member] Finance Lease Finance Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Maximum adjusted EBITDA Maximum Adjusted EBITDA The maximum times Adjusted EBITDA for liens covenant as defined in the Senior Notes agreement. Treasury stock activity Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Severance costs Severance Costs Other accrued expenses Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign 2029 Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Expected Amortization, Year Five Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Contributions from noncontrolling interest holders Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Percentage of assets subject to fair value measurement and subsequently impaired Percentage Of Assets Subject To Fair Value Measurement And Subsequently Impaired Percentage Of Assets Subject To Fair Value Measurement And Subsequently Impaired Current portion of lease liability Less current portion of lease liability Finance Lease, Liability, Current Goodwill, measurement input Goodwill, Measurement Input Goodwill, Measurement Input Total lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid Units outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Units outstanding at end of period (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Options expired (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Insider Trading Arrangements [Line Items] NET LOSS FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS ATTRIBUTABLE TO AMERICAN TOWER CORPORATION COMMON STOCKHOLDERS, BASIC Net income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to American Tower common stockholders, basic Net Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations Available to Common Shareholders, Basic Other Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item, Excluding Corporate Nonsegment [Member] Aggregate principal amount Debt Instrument, Repaid, Principal Amount Debt Instrument, Repaid, Principal Amount Deferred tax liability Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Liabilities Other Current Assets Other Current Assets [Member] 2027 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, to be Paid, Year Three Operating lease, number of renewal options Lessee, Operating Lease, Number Of Renewal Options Lessee, Operating Lease, Number Of Renewal Options Subtotal Deferred Tax Liabilities (Assets), Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities (Assets), Gross Revenue recognized that was previously included in contract liabilities Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized International Communication Sites Benchmark Communication Sites, International Benchmark [Member] Communication Sites, International Benchmark Prepaid and other current assets Prepaids and other current assets Prepaid and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] 5.250% senior notes 5.900% Notes 5.250% Senior Notes Due 2028 [Member] 5.250% Senior Notes Due 2028 Series 2015-2 Notes Series 2015-2 Class A [Member] Series 2015-2 Class A [Member] Schedule of Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefit Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Schedule of Percentages of the Asset Class that were Subject to Fair Value Measurement and Subsequently Impaired Schedule Of Percentages Of The Asset Class That Were Subject To Fair Value Measurement And Subsequently Impaired [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Percentages Of The Asset Class That Were Subject To Fair Value Measurement And Subsequently Impaired Distributions in Excess of Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Schedule of Other Non-Current Liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Table Text Block] Ownership percentage by noncontrolling owners (as a percent) Subsidiary, Ownership Percentage, Noncontrolling Owner Asset Acquisition [Domain] Asset Acquisition [Domain] 2.100% senior notes 2.100% Notes 2.100% Senior Notes Due 2030 [Member] 2.100% Senior Notes Due 2030 Exercise price per share, maximum (in dollars per share) Share-Based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Number of customers Number Of Customers Number Of Customers Number of broadcast and wireless communications towers Number Of Broadcast And Wireless Communications Towers Number of broadcast and wireless communications towers Acquisitions 2022 2022 Asset Acquisitions [Member] 2022 Asset Acquisitions Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis] Philippines PHILIPPINES Peru PERU Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Poland POLAND Right to lease, weighted average term Right to Lease, Weighted Average Term Weighted average period for which the Company has the exclusive right to lease and operate certain sites Restricted stock awards RSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Vodafone Idea Limited Vodafone Idea Limited [Member] Vodafone Idea Limited Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax (benefit) expense OCI, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), Arising During Period, Tax Executive Category: Executive Category [Axis] Accounts payable Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable, Current Start-up capital expenditures SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Start-Up Capital Expenditures SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Start-Up Capital Expenditures Schedule of Income Tax Provision from Continuing Operations Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Restructuring Reserve Beginning balance as of January 1, Balance as of December 31, Restructuring Reserve Impairment, Intangible Asset, Finite-Lived, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Impairment, Intangible Asset, Finite-Lived, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Statement of Income Location, Balance [Domain] Statement of Income Location, Balance [Domain] Paraguay PARAGUAY Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Company Selected Measure Name Company Selected Measure Name