New York's next mayor states his intention to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion

NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that was a central issue throughout his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for nearly all New York City mayors since the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key policy, was not quick to announce this decision immediately after his victory in November.

"The choice rested on the security of my family and the imperative to dedicating my full attention on implementing the affordability agenda voters voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its abundance of cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, it will always live inside me and the work I do," he said.

Political Debate

In his campaign, Mamdani linked his central policy – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his rivals, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit although he is from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his private home on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it should be a place for public city functions, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his previous Astoria home.

Featuring cream-colored walls, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished to reflect the home's early 19th-century origins.

The compound, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is rent-stabilized, meaning the city regulates on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

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

Records showed Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.