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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue during his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for most New York City mayors since the World War II era.

But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a core policy, was not quick to announce he would live there promptly following his electoral win in November.

"The choice was based on the security of my family and the need to dedicating my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers voted for," stated Mamdani on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area renowned for its diverse immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: thank you for showing us the best of New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving there, Astoria will always live a part of me and my work," he added.

Political Debate

In his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his core platform – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

Yet his critics, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which ended in 2012.

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

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria apartment.

With its cream-colored walls, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house situated by the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated consistent with the home's historical period.

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

Haunted History

A number of people have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and shutting on their own, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, meaning the city regulates on how much property owners can raise the rent each year.

City residents see such units as essential protections as the price of rent outpaces the average income.

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

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.