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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the historic Gracie Mansion, departing from the rent-stabilised apartment that became a focal point throughout his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the mayoral home for the majority of New York City mayors after the World War II era.

However, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a central platform, hesitated to declare he would live there promptly following his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the need to directing my full attention on carrying out the agenda for affordability the city's residents supported," stated Mamdani on Monday.

A Fond Farewell

He resided in the Astoria neighbourhood, a community known for its vibrant cultural enclaves and global cuisine.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: many thanks for showing us the best of New York City," he expressed.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, the community will forever remain a part of me and my efforts as mayor," he added.

Political Debate

Throughout his election campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

Yet his opponents, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for occupying the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a famous family.

Not All Mayors Stayed

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his private home on the Upper East Side throughout his time in office, which wrapped up in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a space for official events, and advocated for a major refurbishment of the historic mansion.

A Stately Residence

Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by an environment far removed from his humble Astoria apartment.

Adorned in pale yellow exterior, emerald shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.

Internally, the ground floor of the classically designed mansion is furnished in the spirit of the home's original era.

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

Ghostly Tales

A number of people have suggested that Gracie Mansion also has ghostly inhabitants.

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

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams was adamant. "No matter what people claim," he declared in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."

Affordable Housing Lifeline

The apartment he is leaving is under rent control, which means the city sets limits on how much building managers can hike the monthly cost each year.

City residents view rent-stabilized housing as essential protections as the housing expenses rises faster than the average income.

Data indicated Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.

Based on data from the property website Zillow, the median rent for a single-bedroom unit in New York City is $3,500 a month.