The Mayor-Elect affirms his intention to reside in the storied Gracie Mansion

New York City's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate throughout his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central issue, was not quick to announce he would live there promptly following his victory in November.

"The choice rested on the security of my family and the importance of focusing my complete efforts on carrying out the affordability agenda the city's residents supported," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Thanking a Neighborhood

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its diverse immigrant communities and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain a part of me and my work," he added.

A Contentious Issue

In his campaign, Mamdani linked his core platform – halting rent increases – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his opponents, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing even though he hails from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it should be a venue for civic gatherings, and championed a major refurbishment of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his inauguration on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his humble Astoria home.

Featuring butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house situated by the East River.

Internally, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished to reflect the home's historical period.

The estate, which is said to has several bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to protect the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is under rent control, meaning the city regulates on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

Tenants see such units as essential protections as the cost of housing outpaces the average income.

Data indicated Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from the property website Zillow, the median rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.