| Document and Entity Information | Apr. 14, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 14, 2023 |
| Entity Registrant Name | KANSAS CITY SOUTHERN |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-4717 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 87-3883291 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 427 West 12th Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Kansas City |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MO |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 64105 |
| City Area Code | 816 |
| Local Phone Number | 983-1303 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000054480 |
