🔗 Share this article The Mayor-Elect confirms his intention to reside in the iconic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point during his campaign. A Traditional Abode Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for most New York City mayors after the post-war period. However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a core issue, was not quick to announce his residency plans immediately after his electoral win in November. "This decision was based on keeping my family safe and the imperative to focusing all of my focus on carrying out the platform on affordability the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani on Monday. A Fond Farewell Mamdani lived in the Astoria neighbourhood, an area renowned for its vibrant cultural enclaves and culinary diversity. "To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the true spirit of New York City," he expressed. "Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, it will always live a part of me and my work," he affirmed. Political Debate In his campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – halting rent increases – to his circumstances as a tenant. Yet his rivals, including one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, attacked Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing although he hails from a well-known family. A House Not Always Used Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, chose to live in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side during his three terms, which ended in 2012. Instead, Bloomberg said he believed it could serve as a place for official events, and championed an extensive renovation of the older mansion. The outside of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Stately Residence When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his inauguration on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs. With its butter yellow paint, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River. Internally, the first floor of the classically designed mansion is appointed to reflect the home's historical period. The estate, which reportedly has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family. Supernatural Speculation Some residents have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants. Chirlane McCray, the spouse of ex-mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floors emitted odd sounds. Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "No matter what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization His former home is under rent control, meaning the city regulates on how much landlords can hike the monthly cost each year. Tenants see such units as essential protections as the housing expenses exceeds the average income. Data indicated Mamdani paid about $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.