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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that was a central issue in his election bid.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for nearly all New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central issue, was not quick to announce this decision promptly following his triumph in November.

"The choice rested on keeping my family safe and the imperative to directing my complete efforts on implementing the platform on affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a community renowned for its diverse immigrant populations and global cuisine.

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

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

Political Debate

In his campaign, Mamdani linked his core platform – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

But his opponents, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit although he came from a famous family.

Previous Exceptions

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a place for civic gatherings, and advocated for significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his inauguration on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment far removed from his humble Astoria home.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Within, the first floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished consistent with the home's historical period.

The estate, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and shutting on their own, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

Tenants see such units as valuable lifelines as the cost of housing rises faster than the average income.

Data indicated Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from the real estate platform Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.