| Cover | Jun. 08, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 8, 2022 |
| Entity File Number | 1-3647 |
| Entity Registrant Name | MAYS J W INC |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000054187 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 11-1059070 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | NY |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 9 Bond Street. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Brooklyn |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NY |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 11201-5805 |
| City Area Code | 718 |
| Local Phone Number | 624-7400 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $1 par value |
| Trading Symbol | MAYS |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
