Stock-Based Compensation and Equity (Details 4) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Transfers to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income attributable to W. P. Carey	$ 27,337	$ 18,506	$ 206,252	$ 75,854
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			$ 164,878	$ 75,854