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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue throughout his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors since the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key policy, did not confirm his residency plans immediately following his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on our family's safety and the imperative to focusing my full attention on enacting the platform on affordability the city's residents voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district known for its abundance of immigrant populations and international dining.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, it will always live within me and my work," he affirmed.

Political Debate

In his campaign, Mamdani connected his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

However his critics, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the affordable housing even though he hails from a well-known family.

Previous Exceptions

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it should be a space for official events, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in a setting far removed from his humble Astoria digs.

Featuring butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

Inside, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated consistent with the home's original era.

The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to protect the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "I don't care what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the housing expenses rises faster than what many can afford.

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

According to the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.