Stock-Based Compensation and Equity (Details 4) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Transfers to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to W. P. Carey	$ 112,892	$ 14,181
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	(42,015)	0
Net transfers to noncontrolling interest	(42,015)	0
Change from net income attributable to W. P. Carey and transfers to noncontrolling interest	$ 70,877	$ 14,181