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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that became a focal point throughout his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central policy, hesitated to declare his residency plans immediately after his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on our family's safety and the need to directing my full attention on enacting the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area known for its vibrant immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, the community will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he added.

A Contentious Issue

During his campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his opponents, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit although he hails from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not all mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his time in office, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a venue for official events, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the older mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience surroundings a stark contrast to his previous Astoria home.

With its cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated consistent with the home's historical period.

The property, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, meaning the city sets limits on how much landlords can raise the rent each year.

Tenants view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the price of rent exceeds the average income.

It was reported Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to the real estate platform Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.