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NYC's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that became a focal point throughout his campaign.

A Historic Residence

Dating back to 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for nearly all New York City mayors from the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a central platform, was not quick to announce this decision promptly following his victory in November.

"The choice came down to our family's safety and the need to dedicating all of my focus on enacting the agenda for affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in Astoria, Queens, a district known for its vibrant immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: my gratitude for showing us the true spirit of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in the neighborhood, the community will forever remain within me and the work I do," he added.

Campaign Controversy

During his race for mayor, Mamdani connected his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

However his rivals, most notably one-time governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for living in the apartment although he is from a prominent family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, preferred to remain in his private home on Manhattan's Upper East Side during his time in office, which ended in 2012.

Instead, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a space for official events, and advocated for an extensive renovation of the historic mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment a stark contrast to his modest Astoria digs.

Adorned in butter yellow paint, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home situated by the East River.

Inside, the ground floor of the Federal-style mansion is furnished consistent with the home's original era.

The compound, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to secure the mayor and his family.

Haunted History

A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has spiritual residents.

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, told reporters that doors would sometimes open and closed by themselves, and the floors emitted odd sounds.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what anyone says," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, a policy where the city regulates on how much landlords can raise the rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments crucial resources as the housing expenses rises faster than what many can afford.

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

Based on data from the real estate platform Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.