Zohran Mamdani states he will reside in the storied Gracie Mansion

NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue during his campaign.

A Traditional Abode

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

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key issue, was not quick to announce his residency plans right away after his triumph in November.

"The choice rested on our family's safety and the need to focusing my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability New Yorkers voted for," Mamdani said in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for showing us the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, the community will continue to reside a part of me and my work," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

During his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

However his opponents, mainly ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the rent-stabilized unit even though he hails from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which concluded in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg argued it should be a space for civic gatherings, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will find himself in an environment far removed from his previous Astoria home.

With its butter yellow paint, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished consistent with the home's original era.

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

Haunted History

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

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

Affordable Housing Lifeline

Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, which means the city imposes caps on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing rises faster than the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

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