Stock-Based Compensation and Equity (Details 4) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Transfers to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to W. P. Carey	$ 64,739	$ 43,167	$ 178,915	$ 57,348
Transfers to noncontrolling interest
Decrease in W. P. Carey’s additional paid-in capital for purchases of less-than-wholly-owned investments in connection with the CPA®:16 Merger (a)			(41,374)	0
Net transfers to noncontrolling interest			(41,374)	0
Change from net income attributable to W. P. Carey and transfers to noncontrolling interest			$ 137,541	$ 57,348