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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point in his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors after the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central policy, was not quick to announce he would live there immediately after his triumph in November.

"My choice was based on our family's safety and the need to focusing my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers supported," stated Mamdani in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community famous for its vibrant immigrant populations and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for showing us the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, it will continue to reside inside me and my work," he added.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani connected his core platform – halting rent increases – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit even though he hails from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for civic gatherings, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria home.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The estate, which reportedly has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

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

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the price of rent outpaces the average income.

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

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