🔗 Share this article

New York City's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, departing from his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue throughout his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors since the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core issue, was not quick to announce this decision right away after his victory in November.

"My choice was based on the security of my family and the imperative to focusing my full attention on enacting the affordability agenda the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community renowned for its abundance of immigrant communities and culinary diversity.

"To Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, the community will always live a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

A Contentious Issue

During his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

However his opponents, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit although he is from a well-known 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 personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a venue for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience a setting far removed from his humble Astoria digs.

Featuring butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Inside, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated consistent with the home's historical period.

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

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

His former home is under rent control, meaning the city regulates on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the cost of housing exceeds what many can afford.

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

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