🔗 Share this article

New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to live in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that sparked debate during his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors since the mid-20th century.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core issue, hesitated to declare his residency plans right away after his victory in November.

"This decision was based on our family's safety and the importance of directing my complete efforts on enacting the affordability agenda voters voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district renowned for its diverse immigrant populations and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, Astoria will always live within me and my efforts as mayor," he said.

A Contentious Issue

In his campaign, Mamdani tied his central policy – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

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

Not All Mayors Stayed

Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, preferred to remain in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for official events, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings far removed from his previous Astoria digs.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

The estate, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also has enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

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

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

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

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

City residents see such units as crucial resources as the cost of housing rises faster than what many can afford.

It was reported 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.