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The city's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue in his run for office.

An Iconic Home

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

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central issue, was not quick to announce he would live there immediately after his triumph in November.

"My choice came down to keeping my family safe and the importance of focusing my full attention on carrying out the agenda for affordability voters elected me on," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community famous for its diverse cultural enclaves and international dining.

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

"While I may no longer live there, the community will always live a part of me and the work I do," he added.

Political Debate

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani linked his core platform – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his critics, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the affordable housing despite the fact that he came from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for official events, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings far removed from his humble Astoria apartment.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Within, the first floor of the historically styled mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's early 19th-century origins.

The estate, which is said to has several bedrooms, also includes fortified protections to protect the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, meaning the city sets limits on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the price of rent outpaces the average income.

Data indicated Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.