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The city's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue throughout his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core policy, was not quick to announce this decision right away after his triumph in November.

"My choice came down to the security of my family and the need to dedicating my full attention on implementing the platform on affordability voters elected me on," Mamdani said in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its vibrant immigrant communities and international dining.

"To Astoria: many thanks for showing us the best of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

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

Campaign Controversy

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

However his critics, mainly one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he is from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg felt it should be a space for public city functions, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience an environment a stark contrast to his previous Astoria digs.

Featuring 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 first floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated consistent with the home's original era.

The estate, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also boasts fortified protections to protect the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

Past occupants have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

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

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, a policy where the city regulates on how much building managers can raise the rent each year.

City residents consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing exceeds the average income.

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

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.