🔗 Share this article New York's next mayor confirms he will reside in historic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani The city's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate throughout his election bid. A Traditional Abode 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 rent control is a central issue, was not quick to announce his residency plans promptly following his victory in November. "My choice was based on our family's safety and the imperative to dedicating my full attention on carrying out the platform on affordability New Yorkers supported," the Mayor-Elect declared in his announcement. Leaving Astoria His home was in Astoria, Queens, a district famous for its diverse immigrant populations and culinary diversity. "To the people of Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the true spirit of New York City," he expressed. "Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, it will forever remain inside me and the work I do," he added. Campaign Controversy Throughout his campaign, Mamdani linked his central policy – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements. Yet his critics, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the apartment although he hails from a well-known family. Previous Exceptions Some mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which ended in 2012. Instead, Bloomberg argued it should be a venue for public city functions, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the older mansion. The facade of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Stately Residence As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his previous Astoria digs. Adorned in cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River. Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's historical period. The compound, which is said to has five bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family. Supernatural Speculation A number of people have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents. Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards creaked eerily. Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city regulates on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year. New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as valuable lifelines as the cost of housing rises faster than the average income. It was reported Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment. Per figures from the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.