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NYC's incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.

An Iconic Home

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors after the post-war period.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core policy, did not confirm his residency plans promptly following his triumph in November.

"This decision rested on keeping my family safe and the imperative to dedicating my full attention on carrying out the affordability agenda the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, an area renowned for its vibrant immigrant communities and international dining.

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

"While I may no longer live in Astoria, Astoria will forever remain inside me and my efforts as mayor," he affirmed.

Political Debate

Throughout his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his core platform – halting rent increases – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for occupying the apartment even though he is from a well-known family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his private home on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it should be a space for civic gatherings, and championed significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

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

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

Inside, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's early 19th-century origins.

The compound, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, meaning the city regulates on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments essential protections as the price of rent outpaces the means of many residents.

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

According to the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.