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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue in his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central policy, hesitated to declare this decision immediately after his triumph in November.

"This decision rested on our family's safety and the need to focusing my complete efforts on carrying out the agenda for affordability New Yorkers supported," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in Astoria, Queens, a district famous for its diverse immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for demonstrating what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Even though I'm moving there, the community will forever remain within me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Campaign Controversy

In his election campaign, Mamdani connected his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

However his critics, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it should be a space for civic gatherings, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his previous Astoria apartment.

With its pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River.

Within, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed to reflect the home's historical period.

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

Haunted History

A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is rent-stabilized, meaning the city sets limits on how much building managers can increase rent each year.

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

Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from the property website Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.