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The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to live in the historic Gracie Mansion, vacating the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue in his campaign.

An Iconic Home

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the mayoral home for nearly all New York City mayors since the post-war period.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a core issue, was not quick to announce his residency plans right away following his electoral win in November.

"This decision was based on keeping my family safe and the importance of directing my full attention on enacting the affordability agenda voters supported," stated Mamdani on Monday.

Leaving Astoria

Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its abundance of cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for demonstrating the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"Even though I'm moving in Astoria, it will continue to reside within me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

A Contentious Issue

During his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his personal living arrangements.

But his opponents, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the rent-stabilized unit despite the fact that he hails from a famous family.

A House Not Always Used

Not all mayors have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on the Upper East Side throughout his three terms, which concluded in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg argued it ought to be a space for official events, and pushed for an extensive renovation of the aging mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his inauguration on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his previous Astoria digs.

With its pale yellow exterior, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Within, the lower floor of the classically designed mansion is decorated in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The property, which is said to has several bedrooms, also has increased security measures to secure the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the wife of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that they experienced doors opening and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is rent stabilised, which means the city regulates on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents consider these apartments essential protections as the cost of housing rises faster than the means of many residents.

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

Based on data from the real estate platform Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.