| Cover | Mar. 07, 2024 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Mar. 07, 2024 |
| Entity Registrant Name | MediaAlpha, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-39671 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 85-1854133 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 700 South Flower Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 640 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Los Angeles |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 90017 |
| City Area Code | 213 |
| Local Phone Number | 316-6256 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Class A common stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | MAX |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001818383 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
