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NYC's Mayor-Elect, Zohran Mamdani, has decided to take up residence in the traditional Gracie Mansion, vacating the affordable apartment that became a focal point in his election bid.

A Traditional Abode

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has functioned as the official residence for most New York City mayors from the World War II era.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom rent control is a key platform, was not quick to announce he would live there promptly following his triumph in November.

"This decision was based on the security of my family and the importance of dedicating all of my focus on implementing the affordability agenda the city's residents supported," Mamdani said in his announcement.

Leaving Astoria

His home was in Astoria, Queens, a district known for its vibrant cultural enclaves and international dining.

"To my neighbors in Astoria: thank you for demonstrating what is great about New York City," he expressed.

"Even though I'm moving in the neighborhood, it will continue to reside a part of me and my work," he affirmed.

Campaign Controversy

Throughout his campaign, Mamdani connected his core platform – to freeze the rent – to his own housing situation.

However his rivals, most notably former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, criticised Mamdani for remaining in the rent-stabilized unit although he came from a well-known family.

A House Not Always Used

Some mayors have decided to stay at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, preferred to remain in his personal mansion on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his tenure, which ended in 2012.

Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a venue for official events, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.

A Stately Residence

As he settles into Gracie Mansion sometime around his swearing-in on 1 January, he will be surrounded by surroundings a stark contrast to his humble Astoria apartment.

With its butter yellow paint, green shutters, and white railings, Gracie Mansion is a wedding cake of a house with views of the East River.

Internally, the lower floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's historical period.

The property, which allegedly has five bedrooms, also has fortified protections to protect the mayor and his family.

Ghostly Tales

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that doors would sometimes open and closing inexplicably, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "I don't care what anyone says," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

A Critical Policy Issue

Mamdani's current apartment is rent stabilised, meaning the city sets limits on how much landlords can increase rent each year.

New Yorkers consider these apartments essential protections as the price of rent outpaces the means of many residents.

Data indicated Mamdani paid about $2,300 each month for his apartment.

According to the property website Zillow, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.