The Mayor-Elect confirms he will reside in the iconic Gracie Mansion

New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point in his run for office.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors after the post-war period.

However, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central policy, did not confirm his residency plans immediately following his electoral win in November.

"My choice rested on the security of my family and the importance of directing all of my focus on carrying out the agenda for affordability New Yorkers voted for," the Mayor-Elect declared on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in Astoria, Queens, a community renowned for its vibrant immigrant communities and international dining.

"To the people of Astoria: thank you for showing us what is great about New York City," Mamdani's statement said.

"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, the community will forever remain inside me and the work I do," he added.

Campaign Controversy

In his race for mayor, Mamdani tied his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his circumstances as a tenant.

But his opponents, including former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the affordable housing even though he came from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the billionaire entrepreneur, kept his residence in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg argued it should be a place for official events, and advocated for significant upgrades of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his first day on 1 January, he will experience an environment far removed from his modest Astoria digs.

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

Within, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed consistent with the home's early 19th-century origins.

The property, which is said to has five bedrooms, also boasts increased security measures to safeguard the mayor and his family.

Supernatural Speculation

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

Chirlane McCray, the spouse of previous mayor Bill De Blasio, informed the press that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floorboards creaked eerily.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what anyone says," he insisted in 2022. "It has spirits in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is rent-stabilized, a policy where the city regulates on how much property owners can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as crucial resources as the housing expenses outpaces the average income.

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

Per figures from the real estate platform Zillow, the average rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.