The Mayor-Elect states his intention to reside in the iconic Gracie Mansion

The city's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that sparked debate during his election bid.

A Historic Residence

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

However, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a key policy, was not quick to announce this decision right away after his triumph in November.

"The choice was based on keeping my family safe and the imperative to directing all of my focus on enacting the platform on affordability the city's residents elected me on," the Mayor-Elect declared in a statement.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district renowned for its diverse cultural enclaves and culinary diversity.

"To Astoria: thank you for exemplifying the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, the community will continue to reside a part of me and the work I do," he said.

Political Debate

During his campaign, Mamdani connected his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.

Yet his opponents, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing although he hails from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, kept his residence in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side for his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it could serve as a venue for civic gatherings, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the older mansion.

A Vastly Different Setting

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment a stark contrast to his previous Astoria home.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, green shutters, and pristine railings, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure with views of the East River.

Within, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The compound, which is said to has five bedrooms, also includes enhanced security to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

Past occupants have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "I don't care the skeptics say," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city imposes caps on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents see such units as essential protections as the price of rent rises faster than what many can afford.

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

According to real estate analysts Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.