🔗 Share this article

New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue throughout his run for office.

A Historic Residence

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the primary dwelling for most New York City mayors after the mid-20th century.

But, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a core policy, did not confirm his residency plans right away following his victory in November.

"The choice came down to the security of my family and the imperative to directing my complete efforts on carrying out the agenda for affordability the city's residents supported," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in Astoria, Queens, a district known for its diverse cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will forever remain a part of me and my work," he said.

Political Debate

During his race for mayor, Mamdani linked his core platform – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his critics, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit although he is from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg felt it should be a venue for official events, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the older mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his previous Astoria apartment.

Featuring pale yellow exterior, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure overlooking the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the historically styled mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's early 19th-century origins.

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

Ghostly Tales

Some residents have claimed that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is under rent control, meaning the city regulates on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments valuable lifelines as the housing expenses exceeds what many can afford.

Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.