The Mayor-Elect affirms his intention to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion
The city's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, has confirmed to make his home in the traditional Gracie Mansion, leaving behind the rent-stabilised apartment that was a central issue in his campaign.
A Traditional Abode
Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has been the primary dwelling for the majority of New York City mayors since the post-war period.
But, Mamdani, for whom housing costs is a central issue, hesitated to declare he would live there immediately after his electoral win in November.
"This decision came down to the security of my family and the imperative to directing my complete efforts on enacting the platform on affordability voters elected me on," the Mayor-Elect declared in his announcement.
A Fond Farewell
Mamdani lived in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district known for its diverse cultural enclaves and global cuisine.
"To my neighbors in Astoria: my gratitude for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he noted.
"While I may no longer live in the neighborhood, Astoria will always live a part of me and the work I do," he affirmed.
Campaign Controversy
During his campaign, Mamdani tied his key pledge – a rent freeze – to his circumstances as a tenant.
However his rivals, including ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for living in the apartment despite the fact that he hails from a famous family.
Not All Mayors Stayed
Some mayors have opted to reside at Gracie Mansion.
Michael Bloomberg, the former mayor, chose to live in his own townhouse on Manhattan's Upper East Side for his time in office, which concluded in 2012.
Rather, Bloomberg said he believed it should be a place for civic gatherings, and pushed for significant upgrades of the aging mansion.
A Stately Residence
Upon taking up residence at Gracie Mansion for his swearing-in on 1 January, he will experience a setting a stark contrast to his humble Astoria digs.
With its cream-colored walls, emerald shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is a picturesque home overlooking the East River.
Inside, the first floor of the Federal-style mansion is appointed in the spirit of the home's original era.
The property, which is said to has five bedrooms, also has enhanced security to secure 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, told reporters that doors occasionally opened and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.
Former Mayor Eric Adams was even more convinced. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "The place is haunted in there, man."
A Critical Policy Issue
His former home is rent stabilised, meaning the city sets limits on how much property owners can increase rent each year.
City residents consider these apartments essential protections as the price of rent outpaces the average income.
Records showed Mamdani was paying approximately $2,300 each month for his apartment.
Per figures from the property website Zillow, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is $3,500 a month.