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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that sparked debate during his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors from the post-war period.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central issue, did not confirm this decision promptly after his triumph in November.

"My choice was based on our family's safety and the need to directing my complete efforts on carrying out the platform on affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in Astoria, Queens, an area known for its abundance of immigrant populations and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live there, Astoria will forever remain inside me and the work I do," he added.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani tied his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his personal living arrangements.

Yet his opponents, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all 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 for his tenure, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a venue for public city functions, and championed significant upgrades of the older mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion near his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience an environment far removed from his modest Astoria home.

Adorned in cream-colored walls, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

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

The compound, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also boasts enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

Past occupants have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has supernatural lodgers.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "No matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

His former home is rent-stabilized, meaning the city imposes caps on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers see such units as essential protections as the price of rent exceeds what many can afford.

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

Based on data from real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.