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New York City's next chief executive, Zohran Mamdani, will opt to make his home in the iconic Gracie Mansion, departing from the affordable apartment that sparked debate in his election bid.

An Iconic Home

Constructed in 1799, Gracie Mansion has served as the official residence for the majority of New York City mayors from the mid-20th century.

Yet, Mamdani, for whom affordable housing is a key issue, hesitated to declare he would live there promptly after his victory in November.

"The choice came down to the security of my family and the importance of focusing my full attention on implementing the agenda for affordability voters supported," Mamdani said in his announcement.

A Fond Farewell

His home was in the Queens borough of Astoria, a district famous for its abundance of immigrant communities and global cuisine.

"To Astoria: many thanks for exemplifying what is great about New York City," he noted.

"Although my address will change in Astoria, it will forever remain a part of me and the work I do," he added.

A Contentious Issue

In his campaign, Mamdani connected his central policy – a rent freeze – to his own housing situation.

Yet his rivals, most notably ex-governor Andrew Cuomo, challenged Mamdani for remaining in the apartment despite the fact that he came from a prominent family.

A House Not Always Used

Not every mayor have chosen to live at Gracie Mansion.

Michael Bloomberg, the business magnate, chose to live in his own townhouse on the Upper East Side for his tenure, which ended in 2012.

In his view, Bloomberg felt it could serve as a venue for civic gatherings, and championed a major refurbishment of the aging mansion.

A Grand New Home

When Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion for his first day on 1 January, he will find himself in surroundings very different than his previous Astoria digs.

With its cream-colored walls, green shutters, and bright white balustrades, Gracie Mansion is an ornate structure situated by the East River.

Within, the ground floor of the historically styled mansion is appointed consistent with the home's historical period.

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

Ghostly Tales

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

Chirlane McCray, the partner of former mayor Bill De Blasio, once said that they experienced doors opening and closed by themselves, and the floorboards made strange noises.

Former Mayor Eric Adams was more certain. "It doesn't matter what people claim," he stated in 2022. "There are ghosts in there, man."

The Value of Rent Stabilization

His former home is rent stabilised, a policy where the city regulates on how much property owners can increase rent each year.

Tenants consider these apartments essential protections as the housing expenses outpaces the average income.

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

Per figures from real estate analysts Zillow, the typical monthly cost for a studio or one-bedroom in New York City is $3,500 a month.