🔗 Share this article The Mayor-Elect states plans to reside in historic Gracie Mansion New York City Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the iconic Gracie Mansion, leaving behind his rent-controlled apartment that was a central issue throughout his election bid. An Iconic Home Built in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century. Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key issue, did not confirm he would live there promptly following his triumph in November. "The choice rested on the security of my family and the importance of focusing all of my focus on carrying out the agenda for affordability the city's residents voted for," stated Mamdani in a statement. Leaving Astoria He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a district known for its abundance of cultural enclaves and global cuisine. "To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for showing us the true spirit of New York City," Mamdani's statement said. "Even though I'm moving there, Astoria will continue to reside within me and my work," he affirmed. Campaign Controversy In his campaign, Mamdani linked his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant. But his critics, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the apartment despite the fact that he came from a well-known family. Previous Exceptions Not every mayor have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion. Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side for his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012. Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it ought to be a space for civic gatherings, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the older mansion. The exterior of Gracie Mansion in New York City. A Stately Residence Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will be surrounded by a setting very different than his humble Astoria digs. Adorned in pale yellow exterior, forest green window covers, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home with views of the East River. Within, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed to reflect the home's original era. The estate, which is said to has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family. Ghostly Tales Some residents have alleged that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents. Chirlane McCray, the partner of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds. The departing mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man." The Value of Rent Stabilization Mamdani's current apartment is under rent control, meaning the city regulates on how much landlords can increase rent each year. New Yorkers view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the cost of housing exceeds the means of many residents. Data indicated Mamdani his rent was $2,300 each month for his apartment. Based on data from the property website Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.